Spirit Airlines vs. Frontier: Which Budget Airline Is Cheaper?

Spirit Airlines vs. Frontier: Which Budget Airline Is Cheaper? ✈️💸

When it comes to flying on a budget, two major carriers usually come to mind: Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines. Both are ultra-low-cost airlines that promise cheap flights, but how do they compare? Let’s break it down so you can choose the best one for your next trip—without stretching your wallet too thin.


🔍 How Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines Compare

Both Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines follow the same ultra-budget business model: low base fares, with extra charges for bags, seat selection, food, and more. So, which one is cheaper? Let’s dive into the details.

🛫 Base Fare Comparison

  • Spirit Airlines 🛩️
    Spirit is known for its “bare fare” model, meaning you pay a low base price, but everything from your seat assignment to your carry-on bag costs extra. Spirit often has lower initial fares, but those extra fees can add up quickly.
  • Frontier Airlines 🦅
    Frontier also operates on a similar model, but typically, their base fares are slightly higher than Spirit’s. However, Frontier’s fee structure is often a little more transparent, with certain perks like seat selection included in some fare bundles.

💡 Fee Breakdown: How Much Extra Do You Pay?

The biggest question when flying budget is how much you’ll end up paying after all the additional fees. Let’s break down the common fees you’ll encounter with both airlines.

🧳 Baggage Fees

  • Spirit Airlines
    Spirit charges for both carry-on and checked bags, and the prices vary based on when you book your baggage. Booking early can save you money, but if you wait until the airport, you could pay up to $55 for a carry-on.
  • Frontier Airlines
    Frontier charges similarly for baggage, but their carry-on fees are a little more affordable. You can expect to pay around $30–$35 for a carry-on if booked in advance.

🍴 Food & Drink

  • Spirit Airlines
    Spirit does not include free snacks or drinks, and prices for onboard food and beverages can be a bit pricey. However, you can bring your own snacks if you’re looking to save.
  • Frontier Airlines
    Similar to Spirit, Frontier doesn’t offer free food, but their food offerings tend to be slightly cheaper. Bring your own snacks to avoid the onboard charges.

🧭 Which Airline Is Cheaper Overall?

It really depends on what you’re looking for in a budget flight. On the surface, Spirit Airlines typically offers lower base fares, but Frontier Airlines can be a better value if you’re looking to avoid heavy baggage fees and appreciate a slightly more flexible booking system.

  • Spirit Airlines might be cheaper if you’re traveling with no baggage and don’t mind paying extra for seats and food.
  • Frontier Airlines may be a better choice if you want slightly better clarity around the fees and find value in the bundle options they offer.

🔗 Helpful External Links

To make your decision easier, here are some helpful links:


📌 A Friendly Note to Our Air Travelers

No matter which airline you choose, remember that flying budget-friendly is about being smart with your choices. Plan ahead, book early to avoid fees, and always check the airline’s baggage policies before you fly!

Bon voyage! 🌍💛✈️


💬 Leave Your Thoughts

Which airline do you prefer: Spirit or Frontier? Share your tips, tricks, and travel stories in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! Your insights help other savvy travelers save more and travel smarter.