When you book a flight with Spirit Airlines, you aren’t just buying a “bare fare” anymore. As of 2026, Spirit has become a structured airline with different levels of service that meet the needs of everyone, from budget-minded backpackers to those looking for a more luxurious “Royal” low-cost experience.
The Three Main “Travel Options” (Fares)
Spirit has stopped charging separate fees and now has three main levels of travel. When you book flights and tickets, you can choose from these groups:
1. Spirit First (The Best Choice)
This is the best “type” of Spirit experience for people who want everything. This is the closest Spirit gets to offering a traditional first-class service.
-
Seat: Comes with the well-known Big Front Seat® (extra-wide, more legroom, and no middle seat).
-
Benefits: One checked bag (up to 50 lbs), one carry-on bag, and priority boarding (Group 1).
-
Onboard: Free premium snacks and drinks, including alcohol for people 21 and older.
-
Connectivity: Streaming Wi-Fi is available from gate to gate.
2. Premium Economy (The “Go Comfy” Evolution)
This level is for travelers who need more than the basics but don’t want to sit in the front row.
-
Seat: Has seats with more legroom (32-inch pitch) or a middle seat that is guaranteed to be blocked off for more elbow room.
-
Benefits: You get a carry-on bag, priority boarding (Group 2), and a spot in the overhead bin.
-
Flexibility: No fees for changes or cancellations (though fares may be different).
3. Value (The Classic Ultra-Low Cost)
The “Value” option is for people who don’t need a lot. If you want to find the cheapest flights and plan your trip from scratch, this is the best option.
-
Included: You can only bring one personal item, like a small backpack, that fits under the seat.
-
Customization: You can pay extra for checked bags, seat assignments, or snacks.
-
Flexibility: This level usually charges fees for changes or cancellations.
The Different Types of Aircraft
Spirit has one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the US, called the Fit Fleet®. The airline is optimizing its fleet in 2026 to focus on two main families of Airbus:
-
Airbus A320ceo & A320neo: These are the workhorses of the fleet. The “neo” (New Engine Option) models are quieter and more eco-friendly. Most have between 176 and 182 seats.
-
Airbus A321ceo & A321neo: Are the bigger “stretched” versions of the A320 that are used on routes with a lot of demand. The A321neo is the newest model and has the best cabin pressure and noise reduction.
Types of seating: From Standard to Big Front
You can still upgrade your “type” of seat if you choose the “Value” fare:
-
Big Front Seat®: It’s at the front. These are 18.5 inches wide and have up to36 inches of legroom. These rows don’t have any middle seats.
-
Extra-Legroom Seats: These are usually in the first seven rows and the exit rows. They give you about four extra inches of space compared to regular seats.
-
Standard Seats: The cheapest choice. Spirit seats are “pre-reclined”, so you don’t have to worry about the person in front of you leaning back and taking up your space.
Summary of Fee and Baggage (2026)
Final Decision: Which “Type” Should You Reserve?
-
If you’re going on a long flight and want a wide seat and free drinks without paying legacy airline prices, choose Spirit Fast.
-
Choose Premium Economy If you are a “hacker” who travels light with just a backpack and wants the very best deal on Spirit Airlines tickets, choose Value.
A tip from an Expert for Readers
When you book, always check the Spirit Savers$ Club. You can usually get “member-only” fares that are much lower than public prices for a small annual fee. In fact, you can often pay for your membership with just one round-trip flight.
To get the most out of your Spirit Airlines reservations, you need to know what these groups mean.
Quick FAQ
1. Which type of Spirit doesn’t charge for changes
Only Spirit First and Premium Economy tickets let you change or cancel for free.
2. Is the Big Front Seat® included in “Value”?
No, it is only included in Spirit First. However, if these are seats available, you can pay to upgrade a Value ticket.
3. Do I get free food on Spirit?
Only if you book Spirit First (Full menu) or Premium Economy (one snack/drink). Passengers who want value must pay.
4. Does Spirit still charge for carry-on bags?
Yes, for travelers on a budget. Spirit First and Premium Economy are the only classes that include carry-ons in the price.
