Spirit Airlines Flight Change Policy: A Complete Guide from Tour N Travel Pro

Spirit Airlines flight change policy can help you avoid unnecessary costs and confusion. While Spirit’s low base fares are appealing, the airline’s strict policies regarding changes and cancellations can add up if you’re not prepared.

When booking a flight, especially with a low-cost carrier like Spirit Airlines, flexibility is key. Sometimes, life throws unexpected changes into our travel plans—whether it’s a last-minute business meeting, a family emergency, or a simple change in plans. For travelers flying with Spirit Airlines, understanding the airline's flight change policy is essential to avoid surprises and manage any changes efficiently. At Tour N Travel Pro, we want to ensure that your travel experience is as smooth as possible, which is why we’ve put together a detailed guide to navigating Spirit Airlines flight change policy.

In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about changing your Spirit Airlines flight, including associated fees, timelines, and how you can make the most of your ticket options.

1. An Overview of Spirit Airlines Flight Change Policy

Spirit Airlines is a low-cost carrier, which means they operate with the goal of offering low base fares while charging for additional services, including flight changes. Unlike traditional airlines, Spirit Airlines has a strict and somewhat inflexible policy when it comes to changing flights. However, understanding the details will allow you to manage changes to your itinerary without stress.

Here are the key points you should know:

  • Non-Refundable Tickets: Most Spirit Airlines tickets are non-refundable, which means that if you change your flight, you won’t get your original fare back. Instead, you’ll be required to pay any additional fees and, in some cases, the difference in fare.
  • Change Fees: Spirit charges a fee to change your flight, which varies based on how close you are to your departure date.
  • Ticket Flexibility: If you anticipate needing flexibility, you can purchase Flight Flex, which allows you to change or cancel your flight without the usual penalties.

2. How to Change Your Spirit Airlines Flight

Changing a Spirit Airlines flight can be done in two main ways: online through the Spirit website or by calling their customer service. We’ll break down both methods to help you decide which works best for you.

A. Changing Your Flight Online

The easiest way to change your Spirit Airlines flight is online. Here's how:

  1. Go to the Spirit Airlines Website: Head over to the official Spirit Airlines website at spirit.com.
  2. Click on ‘My Trips’: Once on the homepage, navigate to the “My Trips” section.
  3. Enter Your Details: You’ll need your confirmation code and last name to access your flight.
  4. Choose the Flight You Want to Change: Once you’ve accessed your reservation, select the flight you wish to change.
  5. Make the Change: Select a new flight and confirm the change. You’ll be required to pay any applicable change fees and the difference in fare if the new flight is more expensive.

B. Changing Your Flight by Phone

If you prefer speaking to someone or need assistance with a more complicated situation, you can call Spirit Airlines Customer Service at 1-855-774-3548. However, keep in mind that calling can result in longer wait times, and you may incur additional service fees.

3. Spirit Airlines Flight Change Fees

One of the most important aspects of Spirit Airlines’ flight change policy is the change fee structure. Spirit Airlines charges fees depending on how far in advance you change your flight:

  • More than 60 Days Before Departure: If you change your flight more than 60 days before your scheduled departure, the change fee is typically $90.
  • Within 60 Days of Departure: If you change your flight within 60 days of departure, the change fee rises to $100.
  • Closer to Departure: If you’re changing your flight within a very short window (less than a day or two before departure), you may encounter higher fees or limited availability for rebooking.

Flight Flex: An Option for More Flexibility

If you purchase Flight Flex at the time of booking, you can avoid these change fees. Flight Flex allows you to make changes or cancellations without incurring any additional fees. For $49.99 per person, you get the flexibility to change your travel plans without being penalized. This option can be particularly useful for travelers who are unsure about their schedule or expect to make changes to their travel plans.

4. What Happens If the New Flight Costs More?

If you decide to change your flight with Spirit Airlines and the new flight is more expensive than your original ticket, you’ll be required to pay the difference in fare. The difference is calculated based on the new ticket’s price compared to your original ticket. This is a standard practice for most airlines, not just Spirit.

For example, if you initially booked a ticket for $150, but the new flight costs $180, you will need to pay the $30 difference (plus the change fee). Keep in mind that Spirit’s low base fares often mean that changes can result in additional costs if the ticket price has increased.

5. Can I Get a Refund for a Flight Change?

As with most budget airlines, Spirit Airlines does not provide refunds for flight changes, even if you cancel or modify your trip due to personal circumstances. Unless you have purchased travel insurance or opted for specific add-ons like Flight Flex, the airline will not refund the original ticket price. Instead, you’ll receive a travel credit for the amount you paid (minus fees) if you cancel your flight. However, this travel credit is non-transferable and must be used within 60 days.

If you’ve made changes to your flight, the money you paid for the original ticket will go toward covering the new flight or any additional fees, but you won’t get any money back.

6. Tips to Minimize Flight Change Fees

While Spirit’s flight change policy may seem a bit rigid, there are a few ways you can minimize the impact of change fees:

  • Plan Ahead: The earlier you make changes to your flight, the lower your fees will be. Avoid waiting until the last minute, as Spirit charges higher fees the closer you are to the departure date.
  • Purchase Flight Flex: If you’re booking a flight with Spirit and anticipate needing flexibility, consider purchasing Flight Flex for added peace of mind. It’s a relatively small investment that could save you money in the long run.
  • Monitor Fare Changes: Spirit often runs promotions and offers sales on flights. If you need to change your flight, keep an eye on fare differences and changes, as sometimes the price of a new flight might drop closer to the date.

7. Protect Your Booking with Travel Insurance

Sometimes, the unexpected happens—whether it’s a medical emergency, a flight delay, or a change in your schedule. Travel insurance can be an excellent way to protect your investment, especially when traveling with low-cost carriers like Spirit. With travel insurance, you may be able to recover the costs of a canceled or changed flight, or at least receive a partial reimbursement for non-refundable tickets.

Conclusion

Understanding Spirit Airlines’ flight change policy can help you avoid unnecessary costs and confusion. While Spirit’s low base fares are appealing, the airline’s strict policies regarding changes and cancellations can add up if you’re not prepared. However, by planning ahead, purchasing Flight Flex, and knowing your options, you can make changes with minimal hassle.

At Tour N Travel Pro, we’re dedicated to providing you with the best travel advice and helping you navigate the complexities of budget travel. If you need assistance with changing your Spirit Airlines flight, managing cancellations, or understanding your ticket options, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help you enjoy a stress-free travel experience!

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