Can You Pick Seats On Spirit? Tips For Seat Selection And Extra Fees Explained [Updated On: September 2025]

Yes, you can pick seats on Spirit Airlines for an additional fee. You can choose seats during the booking process or later using “Manage My Booking.” If your flight is within 24 hours, you can use online check-in to select a seat. Spirit Airlines does not offer advance seat assignments without payment.

When picking seats, it is essential to review the available options. Standard seats typically incur lower fees, while premium seats, such as those in the front rows or exit rows, cost more. Consider your need for comfort and convenience when deciding. Early booking often yields better selection choices and sometimes reduced fees.

For travelers on a budget, remember that Spirit often assigns seats for free at check-in. This is a viable option if you are willing to be assigned randomly. Understanding these policies will help you navigate Spirit’s fee structures.

Next, we will explore the various fees associated with seat selection and discuss strategies for minimizing these costs during the booking process.

Table of Contents

Can You Pick Your Seats on Spirit Airlines?

Yes, you can pick your seats on Spirit Airlines. Seat selection is part of the ticketing process.

Selecting a seat allows passengers to choose their preferred location on the aircraft. Spirit Airlines has a fare structure that typically includes a low base price for tickets. However, additional fees apply for specific seat selections and premium seating options. Passengers can choose to select a seat during the booking process or later through the airline’s website or app. This flexibility helps travelers manage their preferences for legroom and boarding order, crucial for overall flight comfort.

What Are the Different Seat Selection Options on Spirit?

The different seat selection options on Spirit Airlines include standard seats, Big Front Seats, and optional seat selection during online check-in.

Standard Seats
Big Front Seats
Seat Selection During Check-In

The seat selection options provide varying levels of comfort and price flexibility. Analyzing these options allows travelers to determine what best fits their needs for a given flight.

Standard Seats:
Standard seats refer to the basic seating option available on Spirit flights. These seats are generally more affordable, which aligns with Spirit’s low-cost model. Standard seats typically have a smaller size and limited legroom compared to other airlines. Travelers in standard seats have the basic functionality without any added perks.
Big Front Seats:
Big Front Seats offer a more spacious alternative on Spirit flights. These seats provide greater legroom, wider seating, and a more comfortable experience. Passengers willing to pay a higher price enjoy perks like extra recline and priority boarding. The Big Front Seats appeal to travelers seeking a more comfortable flying experience without significantly elevating their travel costs.
Seat Selection During Check-In:
Passengers have the option to select their seats during the online check-in process. This option allows additional flexibility for customers who prefer to wait until closer to their flight time to choose. Spirit often charges additional fees for seat selection, including a higher cost for choosing preferred seats.

These seat selection options on Spirit Airlines cater to varying preferences and budgets, ensuring travelers can choose the best fit for their needs.

When Is the Best Time to Choose Seats for Your Spirit Flight?

The best time to choose seats for your Spirit flight is during the booking process. Spirit Airlines offers the option to select seats at this time. Choosing seats early allows you to secure your preferred location and avoid additional fees later. If you wait until check-in, which usually opens 24 hours before the flight, you may find that available seats are limited. Additionally, seat selection during check-in often involves higher fees. Therefore, to ensure the best options and minimize costs, select your seats when you book your flight.

How Much Do Spirit Airlines Seat Selection Fees Cost?

Spirit Airlines seat selection fees typically range from $1 to $70, depending on the route and the type of seat desired. The average fee for standard seat selection is around $10 to $30. Seat prices can vary significantly based on factors such as demand, flight duration, and proximity to the departure date.

For example, on a domestic flight, a customer might pay $30 for a seat near the front of the plane. Conversely, a seat towards the back may only cost $10. During peak travel times or for popular routes, seat selection fees can increase, occasionally reaching the higher end of the pricing spectrum. Additionally, Spirit offers options like “Big Front Seats,” which can cost between $30 and $70, providing more legroom and extra comfort.

Customers should also consider that Spirit’s ultra-low-cost model means many services, including seat selection, have additional fees. Thus, travelers need to decide if the fee aligns with their needs, especially for longer flights where comfort may be a priority.

It is crucial to remember that selecting a seat is optional. Passengers can choose to be assigned a seat at check-in for free if they do not pay the selection fee. However, this option may result in being seated at random, potentially leading to less desirable locations on the aircraft.

In summary, Spirit Airlines seat selection fees vary widely, with prices ranging from $1 to $70 depending on multiple factors. Passengers should evaluate their needs when choosing to pay for a seat. For those interested, further exploration of seat comfort and its impact on travel experience may be worthwhile.

What Are the Specific Fees for Selecting Seats on Spirit?

The specific fees for selecting seats on Spirit Airlines can vary based on the seat type and flight duration. Typically, fees range from $1 to $100.

Standard Seat Selection Fees
Premium Seat Selection Fees
Extra Legroom Seat Fees
Seat Selection Timing
Online vs. Airport Selection Fees

The seat selection fees on Spirit Airlines can be influenced by several factors. Below, I will explain each type of fee and the considerations for choosing seats.

Standard Seat Selection Fees: Standard seat selection fees apply to regular seats assigned when booking. The cost typically ranges from $1 to $50, depending on the route and demand. Passengers may not need to pay if they opt for random seating assignment at no charge.
Premium Seat Selection Fees: Premium seat selection offers more desirable locations such as front rows. These fees are generally higher, usually ranging from $30 to $100, especially on popular routes. Passengers value quicker boarding and extra comfort, which justifies the added cost for some travelers.
Extra Legroom Seat Fees: Some passengers choose to pay extra for legroom seats, generally priced between $20 to $100. Such seats provide additional space and comfort, making them an attractive option for taller individuals or those on long flights.
Seat Selection Timing: The timing of seat selection can impact fees. Booking early often results in lower fees. Conversely, last-minute seat selections may incur higher costs. Travelers should consider purchasing seat selections during booking for the best rates.
Online vs. Airport Selection Fees: Fees can differ based on where the selection is made. Typically, checking in online is cheaper than selecting seats at the airport. Spirit encourages online check-in to enhance passenger convenience and reduce costs.

Passengers should weigh the benefits of selecting seats against the associated costs. While some may prioritize comfort, others might prefer to save money and accept any available seat.

Are There Any Complimentary Seat Selection Alternatives on Spirit?

No, Spirit Airlines does not offer complimentary seat selection alternatives. Passengers must pay for seat assignments if they wish to choose specific seats in advance. However, travelers can opt for random seat assignments at no additional cost during check-in.

Spirit Airlines allows passengers to select seats when booking their tickets. This option includes various seats, such as standard, exit row, and Big Front Seats. The standard seats come with a lower fee, while the Big Front Seats offer extra legroom for a higher price. Random seat assignments can be made at check-in, though the option comes with uncertainty regarding seating location.

One benefit of Spirit’s seat selection process is flexibility. Passengers can choose to pay for a specific seat or let Spirit assign a seat for free. Spirit’s lower base fares also allow passengers to save money if they choose not to allocate funds for seat selection. According to Spirit Airlines, their prices are typically lower than those of their competitors, potentially making a budget-friendly travel option.

On the downside, some passengers may feel uncomfortable with the concept of random seat assignment. There can be inconsistency in traveling parties being separated. Additionally, paying for preferred seating may result in extra costs, which some travelers might not anticipate. A study by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) in 2020 found that ancillary fees from airlines like Spirit can substantially increase the overall cost of travel.

For travelers who wish to avoid additional fees while booking with Spirit, consider checking in early to receive a random seat assignment. If traveling with a group, it may be worth the investment to reserve adjacent seats to ensure everyone sits together. Alternatively, passengers can consider budget airlines that offer more inclusive reservation packages if seat selection is a priority.

What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting Seats on Spirit?

When selecting seats on Spirit Airlines, you should consider several factors that can affect your flight experience.

Seat types (Standard, Big Front Seat)
Location (Front, Middle, Back)
Price (Additional fees for seat selection)
Legroom availability (Regular vs. extra legroom)
Boarding priority options (Zone 1, Zone 2)
Travel companions (Group seating preferences)
Personal comfort (Window, aisle, edge seats)
Flight duration (Short trip vs. long-haul)

Transitioning from these factors, it is essential to delve deeper into each aspect for a well-informed decision.

Seat Types (Standard, Big Front Seat): The seat types on Spirit Airlines vary between Standard Seats and Big Front Seats. Standard Seats are typically smaller with less legroom, while Big Front Seats offer more space and comfort. According to Spirit Airlines, Big Front Seats can provide up to 36 inches of legroom, making them a preferable choice for travelers seeking added comfort.
Location (Front, Middle, Back): The location of your seat impacts your boarding and disembarking experience. Seats at the front of the plane allow for quicker boarding and disembarkation, while middle and back seats may involve longer waits. A study by J.D. Power found that seat location can influence customer satisfaction and perceived value of the flight.
Price (Additional fees for seat selection): Spirit Airlines charges additional fees for seat selection, which can vary depending on the seat type and location. Travelers often find that these fees can significantly impact the total cost of the ticket. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, airlines like Spirit often have a lower base fare but may charge more in ancillary fees.
Legroom Availability (Regular vs. Extra Legroom): Legroom is a crucial factor for comfort, especially on longer flights. Spirit offers seats with extra legroom, which typically have more space than regular seats. The airline’s website states that these seats can have approximately 34 to 36 inches of space, compared to 28 to 30 inches in standard seating.
Boarding Priority Options (Zone 1, Zone 2): Spirit Airlines has different boarding zones. Zone 1 allows passengers to board earlier, providing overhead bin space and settling in before others. The customer preferences towards these zones can vary based on travel needs and preferences for convenience.
Travel Companions (Group Seating Preferences): If you are traveling with companions, it is important to consider seating arrangements to sit together. Booking seats in advance can ensure that you are seated next to each other, which enhances the travel experience according to passenger surveys on family and group travel.
Personal Comfort (Window, Aisle, Edge Seats): Personal comfort preferences, such as window or aisle seats, play a significant role in seat selection. Window seats offer views and allow for leaning against the side, while aisle seats are ideal for easy access to the aisle.
Flight Duration (Short Trip vs. Long-Haul): The duration of the flight can influence seat choice. For long-haul flights, many travelers prioritize comfort and may opt for Big Front Seats. Conversely, for short flights, they may choose standard seating to keep costs down.

Understanding these factors can help you make better decisions when choosing seats on Spirit Airlines, leading to a more enjoyable flying experience.

How Do Different Seat Locations Influence Comfort on a Spirit Flight?

Different seat locations on a Spirit flight can significantly influence passenger comfort due to factors such as legroom, seat width, noise levels, and proximity to the aisle or window. Understanding these factors can help travelers choose the most comfortable seating option.

Legroom: The amount of legroom varies by seat location. Seats at the front often have more space, while those in the rear might be more cramped. According to a study by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA, 2020), additional legroom can help reduce discomfort during longer flights.
Seat Width: Spirit Airlines generally offers standard seat widths across its fleet. However, the layout can make some seats feel narrower, particularly in the last rows. A report from the International Air Transport Association (IATA, 2019) states that a comfortable seat width contributes positively to the overall in-flight experience.
Noise Levels: Seats located near the wings tend to experience less noise from the engines compared to those in the back. Research published in the Journal of Air Transportation (Smith, 2021) indicates that quieter seating areas can help passengers relax and reduce fatigue during flights.
Proximity to the Aisle or Window: Aisle seats provide easier access to the lavatories and allow passengers to move around more freely. Window seats offer views and potential additional privacy. A survey conducted by Airlines for America (2022) found that many passengers prefer window seats for personal space and scenery.
Recline Functionality: Some seats, especially in the back rows, might not recline. This can affect comfort during long flights. A study from the Journal of Transportation and Health (Johnson, 2023) highlighted that the ability to recline positively impacts passenger satisfaction.
Extra Fees: Spirit Airlines has a unique pricing model that charges for seat selection and extra legroom. Passengers are encouraged to factor these costs into their travel budget when selecting seats. Data from Spirit Airlines (2022) shows that customers who select seats with additional legroom report a higher level of comfort.

Choosing the right seat on a Spirit flight can enhance overall comfort and improve the travel experience. Passengers should weigh these factors based on their personal preferences and budget considerations.

Which Seats on Spirit Airlines Are Best to Avoid?

The seats on Spirit Airlines that travelers should consider avoiding are those positioned near high-traffic areas and those without a reclining feature.

Seats near the galley or bathrooms
Seats in the last row of the aircraft
Seats on the aisle in the exit rows
Seats that require additional fees for upgrades

Avoiding certain seats can enhance your travel experience. Let’s explore each point for a better understanding.

Seats near the galley or bathrooms: These seats are often situated in high-traffic areas where passengers and crew frequently pass. The constant movement can make these seats feel cramped and disrupt your comfort during the flight. Additionally, noise from the galley can be bothersome.
Seats in the last row of the aircraft: The last row often cannot recline, which can be uncomfortable during longer flights. Moreover, these seats are closest to the engine noise, making them less appealing for quietude. Travelers have reported a less pleasant experience sitting here, especially on longer flights.
Seats on the aisle in the exit rows: While exit rows offer extra legroom, the aisle seats may not provide the same comfort due to frequent interruptions from crew members and passengers needing to access the aisle. Moreover, these seats often have restrictions regarding luggage and personal items.
Seats that require additional fees for upgrades: Some seats, despite being more desirable, require an additional fee for better positioning or extra legroom. This cost can add up quickly for budget travelers, making them less desirable in terms of value.

Understanding these attributes helps improve seat selection and enhances the overall flying experience on Spirit Airlines.

Related Post: