How to Upgrade Your Seat on Spirit Airlines Without Spending a Lot

Flying can be stressful—especially if you want a better seat but don’t want to spend too much. In this blog, we’ll guide you through easy, low-cost ways to upgrade your seat on Spirit Airlines. We’ll share simple tips from personal experience, explain how Spirit Airlines reservations and Flight Change Policy work, and answer common questions. Whether you want more legroom or a better spot on the plane, we’re here to help you feel more comfortable—without breaking the bank.

Understanding Spirit Airlines Seating Options

Spirit Airlines is known for offering low-cost flights, but seats can sometimes feel cramped. If you’ve ever wished for more legroom or a seat closer to the front, you’re not alone. The good news? You can upgrade your seat without spending a fortune.

Unlike some airlines that offer free upgrades, Spirit works a little differently. Everything is à la carte—you pay only for what you want. That includes seat upgrades, baggage, and food. But if you’re smart about it, you can still get a better seat at a low price.

What Are the Different Seat Options on Spirit Airlines?

Before you upgrade, it helps to know what’s available:

Standard Seats

These are the regular seats you get when you make a basic Spirit Airlines reservation. They're fine for short trips but not super comfy for longer flights.

Big Front Seats

These are the best seats on Spirit Airlines. They look a lot like first class but without the fancy extras. You get more space, a wider seat, and extra legroom. Perfect if you want a more relaxed flight.

Exit Row or Extra Legroom Seats

These cost a little more than standard seats but are great if you want to stretch your legs. If you're tall or get sore sitting too long, these are a great option.

When and How to Upgrade for Less

1. Upgrade Early During Booking

The easiest and cheapest time to upgrade is right when you’re booking your flight. They will show you seat options during checkout. The earlier you book, the lower the upgrade price usually is.

Tip: Don’t skip the seat selection step. Even if you’re unsure, check prices—you might be surprised how low they are!

2. Upgrade After Booking but Before Check-In

If you’ve already made a Spirit Airlines reservation, you can still upgrade your seat later. Log in to your reservation using your confirmation code on the Spirit website or app. Choose “My Trips” and then select “Modify Booking” or “Change Seat.”

Prices may be slightly higher than at booking, but still cheaper than at the airport.

3. Upgrade During Check-In (Online or at Airport)

They allows seat upgrades during online check-in (up to 24 hours before the flight). Sometimes, unsold Big Front Seats or exit row seats are offered at a discount.

If you're checking in at the airport, you can also ask the agent if any upgrades are available. Be kind and polite—sometimes, they’ll offer helpful suggestions.

Ways to Save Money on Seat Upgrades

Use Spirit Saver$ Club (if you fly often)

This membership offers lower prices on seats and bags. If you fly in this airlines more than 2-3 times a year, it might save you money overall.

Use Points or Travel Credits

If you’ve changed a flight before or canceled one, you might have credits. Under Spirit’s Flight Change Policy, canceled flights usually give you a reservation credit. You can use this to upgrade your seat next time!

Bundle with Other Options

Spirit sometimes offers “bundle” deals during booking, which include seat selection, bags, and priority boarding. If you need more than one service, bundling can save you 20–40%.

Real Traveler Tip: Our Story

We once flew from Orlando to Chicago on Spirit. At booking, the Big Front Seats were $35 more. We skipped them to save money. But after a long day with kids, we really regretted it. On our next trip, we checked again before check-in and found those same seats for $25. We grabbed them and had the most comfortable flight we’d had in months.

Sometimes, waiting works. But sometimes booking early is better. Check both!

Previous Post - Elevate Your Business Trip with Spirits Flight Deals

What If You Need to Change Your Flight?

If your travel plans change, don’t worry—’ Flight Change Policy is fairly simple. You can modify your booking online by going to “My Trips.” If you’ve already upgraded your seat, the price may be adjusted based on the new flight.

Here’s how it works:

• 60+ days before travel: No change fee

• 7–59 days before: $49 fee

• 0–6 days before: $99 fee

You may also pay a fare difference, depending on the new flight. But your seat selection and upgrade usually transfer—or you get credit if your new flight costs less.

FAQs: Spirit Airlines Seat Upgrade Help

How do I know if upgraded seats are available on Spirit Airlines?

You can check during booking, by logging into your reservation, or during online check-in. Look for options like “Big Front Seat” or “Extra Legroom.” Availability depends on your flight, so act quickly if you see a deal.

Can I upgrade my seat after check-in with Spirit Airlines?

Usually no. After check-in is completed, upgrades are limited. Your best chance is during the check-in process (within 24 hours of your flight). After that, only airport staff might help if seats are unsold.

What happens to my upgraded seat if I change my flight?

Under the Flight Change Policy, Airlines tries to move your seat upgrade to your new flight. If the same seat type isn’t available, they’ll give you a refund or credit. Just be sure to make changes online or through customer service.

Final Thoughts: Comfort Can Be Affordable

Upgrading your seat on Airlines doesn’t have to cost a lot. With a little planning—whether you do it while booking, later online, or during check-in—you can enjoy more space and a smoother flight.

We’ve done it ourselves and know how great it feels to stretch out a bit more. Next time you fly, try checking those upgrade options. Sometimes, a small extra cost can make a big difference in your travel experience.

Need help changing or managing your reservation?

Feel free to drop a comment or reach out to customer service. Travel can be stressful, but with the right tips, you’ll always be ready.