Spirit Airlines Family Seating: What You Need to Know

Spirit Airlines is known for its ultra-low-cost fares, offering a budget-friendly option for many travelers. However, with its low prices come additional charges for many services, including seat selection. If you’re traveling with children or as part of a family group, you may find yourself navigating the complexities of Spirit’s seating policies. Understanding these policies is crucial to avoid any unwanted surprises, especially if you’re expecting to sit together.

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What’s the Policy on Family Seating?

Spirit Airlines’ family seating policy differs from that of other major airlines. Here are the key things to know:

Spirit’s General Seating Policy:

Unlike some other airlines that guarantee adjacent seating for families traveling with children, Spirit does not offer this as a default. Families are required to either pre-select seats or risk being assigned random seating during the check-in process. This can lead to situations where family members end up seated apart, which can be particularly challenging for parents traveling with young children.

Children Under 15 Years Old:

According to Spirit’s seating policy, children under the age of 15 are not permitted to sit in exit rows due to safety regulations. This can limit your options for seat selection, especially if you’re hoping for more legroom or better seating positions. It’s something to keep in mind when planning your seat assignments.

No Guaranteed Adjacent Seating:

Spirit Airlines does not guarantee that families will sit together unless they pay for seat selection. This is important to note, as it differs from the policies of some major airlines that prioritize family seating at no additional charge. If you’re traveling on a tight budget, you may be tempted to skip paying for seat assignments, but this comes with the risk of not being able to sit with your children.

Types of Seats Available on Spirit Airlines

To further understand Spirit’s seating options, it’s helpful to know the types of seats available and how they vary in price:

Standard Seats:

These seats are the most economical option, offering standard seating with no additional amenities. Located mostly in the middle and rear of the plane, these seats are suitable for short flights. However, as these seats are often the last to be chosen, it may be difficult to secure adjacent seats if you’re traveling with children unless you purchase seat selection.

Premium Seats:

These are located in the exit rows and provide extra legroom. While they are more spacious, there are restrictions on who can occupy these seats. Passengers under 15 years of age are not allowed to sit in these rows due to safety regulations. These premium seats come at a higher price but offer more comfort for families willing to spend a little extra.

Big Front Seats:

The Big Front Seats on Spirit are essentially the equivalent of first-class seating, but without the luxury price tag. They are wider and more comfortable than standard seats, with extra legroom. These seats are located at the front of the plane and provide an ideal option for families who want more space, although they are offered at a premium price.

Seat Upgrades:

Spirit offers various upgrades, such as the “Big Front Seat” upgrade, which can be a good investment for families who prefer extra comfort during their flight. This seat upgrade allows families to sit together more comfortably, especially if you’re on a long-haul flight.

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Strategies for Securing Seats Together

Given that Spirit Airlines does not guarantee adjacent seating, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure your family can sit together. Here are several strategies that can help you achieve that goal:

1. Purchase Seat Selection During Booking

The simplest way to ensure you sit together is by paying for seat selection during the booking process. Spirit allows you to choose your seats for a small fee at the time of booking, which helps you secure adjacent seats. Seat prices vary depending on the route and seating options available, but it’s often worth the investment for the peace of mind it brings.

• Tip: If you’re booking your flight early, you’ll have a better chance of securing the best seats for your family at a lower price. Waiting until closer to the flight date may result in fewer available seats and higher prices.

2. Check-In Early

If you didn’t pre-select your seats during booking, you can still increase your chances of sitting together by checking in as soon as Spirit opens online check-in. Online check-in opens 24 hours before your flight, and Spirit assigns seats based on availability. By checking in as early as possible, you can increase your chances of sitting together as seats become available.

• Pro Tip: If your family is large or you’re traveling with young children, it’s a good idea to check in at the very beginning of the 24-hour window to have the best chance of getting adjacent seats.

3. Contact Customer Service

If you’re unable to secure adjacent seats during the booking process or online check-in, contacting Spirit’s customer service team may help. While they cannot guarantee adjacent seats, they can offer guidance and potentially make adjustments based on seat availability. It’s worth reaching out if you’re traveling with children or have specific seating needs.

• Pro Tip: If you need assistance from customer service, be prepared with your booking information and details about your family’s seating preferences. The more specific you are, the more likely they can help you.

4. Consider Upgrading to Big Front Seats

If you’re willing to spend a little extra, upgrading to Spirit’s Big Front Seats can provide not only more comfort but also a greater chance of sitting together. These seats are located at the front of the aircraft, with more legroom and often fewer passengers. Upgrading to these seats can give you more flexibility and peace of mind, particularly on longer flights.

• Tip: Big Front Seats are also great for families who want to make the travel experience more enjoyable. The extra space makes the flight feel more comfortable, and the proximity to the front of the plane allows for quicker boarding and disembarking.

5. Utilize Bundled Services

Spirit Airlines offers bundled services that can enhance your travel experience. For example, the “Go Big” package includes Big Front Seats, seat selection, and other amenities. Bundling these services can help ensure you sit together while saving money compared to purchasing each service individually.

• Pro Tip: When booking your flight, look for bundles that include seat selection or Big Front Seats, as these options can offer the best value for families.

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Essential Considerations for Traveling with Children on Spirit Airlines

When traveling with children, there are several things to consider beyond just seating arrangements. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Bringing Snacks and Drinks

Spirit Airlines doesn’t offer complimentary snacks or beverages on their flights, so it’s important to bring your own. This is especially important if you’re traveling with young children who may need to eat or drink during the flight. You can bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, but be mindful of TSA regulations regarding liquids.

• Tip: Pack healthy and easy-to-eat snacks that won’t make a mess. Granola bars, fruit, and crackers are great options for keeping kids content during the flight.

2. Diaper Bags

If you’re traveling with an infant or toddler, keep in mind that Spirit Airlines allows diaper bags to be brought onboard free of charge, and they don’t count toward your luggage allowance. This is a huge benefit for parents who need to carry essential baby items without worrying about additional baggage fees.

• Pro Tip: Pack your diaper bag with all the essentials, including extra diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and any comfort items your child may need to stay calm and entertained during the flight.

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3. Plan for Entertainment

For longer flights, it’s important to have entertainment options for your children. While Spirit offers Wi-Fi on some flights, it may not be free, so it’s a good idea to bring entertainment options with you. Books, electronic devices, and travel-sized games can help keep your children occupied during the flight.

• Tip: Download movies or apps ahead of time to avoid relying on in-flight Wi-Fi, which may be unreliable or costly.

4. Seat Belt Extenders

If you have a larger child, you may need a seat belt extender. Spirit does provide seat belt extenders, but it’s always a good idea to ask for one when you board, so you’re prepared for a more comfortable flight.

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Final Thoughts

Traveling with family on Spirit Airlines doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does require some careful planning and attention to detail. By understanding Spirit’s seating policy, booking early, and considering upgrades or bundles, you can ensure your family enjoys a smooth and comfortable journey.  From my own personal experience, being proactive about seat selection and knowing what to expect can make a world of difference when traveling with children.

I hope these tips have been helpful! If you have any experiences or additional tips you’d like to share, please leave your comments below. I’d love to hear from you and continue the conversation.