Online Check-In for Spirit Airlines: A Step-by-Step Guide

This not only expedites the boarding process but also allows travelers to make informed decisions about their journey. As air travel continues to evolve, Spirit remains committed to enhancing customer convenience through solutions like online check-in. (As of 2025-10-09)

Key Takeaways

• Online check-in with Spirit Airlines helps passengers save time and avoid long lines at the airport.
• Benefits include the ability to select seats, add baggage, and enter passport details (for international trips) during check-in.
• Access Spirit online check-in via the airline’s website or mobile app.
• Retrieve your reservation by entering your last name and confirmation code in My Trips.
• Know your deadlines: online check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 1 hour before; bag drop closes 45 minutes (domestic) / 60 minutes (international & U.S.V.I.); be at the gate 15 minutes (domestic) / 30 minutes (international) before departure.

Benefits of Online Check-In for Spirit Airlines

One of the primary advantages of online check-in with Spirit Airlines is the significant time savings it offers. Passengers can check in starting 24 hours before their flight and up to 1 hour prior to scheduled departure, helping them avoid counter lines during peak travel periods. ^{1, 2}

Greater control over your trip. During online check-in you can choose seats (fees vary by route and seat type), add bags, and review key details. Purchasing options in advance is typically more economical than waiting until the airport. ^{4, 5}

Travel options may include bags/seats. Depending on the fare bundle you selected (e.g., Value, Premium Economy, Spirit First), certain items like a carry-on and/or checked bag and seat selection may already be included. ^{5, 6}

Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Spirit Airlines Online Check-In

Accessing Spirit Airlines’ online check-in is straightforward:

1. Go to spirit.com/check-in or open the Spirit mobile app. ¹¹
2. Select “Check-In” or “Manage My Booking.”
3. Enter your confirmation code and last name to retrieve your trip. ⁷
4. Follow the prompts to review flight details, select seats, and add bags. ^{2, 4}
5. Confirm and get your mobile or printable boarding pass. ²

How to Retrieve Your Reservation for Online Check-In

Can’t find your confirmation code? Use My Trips with your last name and code to load your reservation and receipts. ^{7, 16, 17}

Selecting Your Seat and Adding Baggage During Online Check-In

After retrieving your reservation, you can view a seat map to choose available seats. Spirit charges for most seat selections, and prices vary by route and seat type (e.g., standard, exit row, Big Front Seat®, and—as introduced in 2025—an extra-legroom seating option available on select aircraft). ^{4, 10}

You can also add baggage here. Spirit’s base “Value” option includes a free personal item only; carry-ons and checked bags are an extra charge unless included in a higher travel option (Premium Economy or Spirit First). Buying bags online usually costs less than purchasing at the airport. ^{5, 6, 1}

Uploading Travel Documents and Providing Passenger Information

For international flights, you’ll be prompted to enter passport details during online check-in. Some guests may still be required to see an agent at the airport for document verification before travel. ^{8, 1}

REAL ID for U.S. domestic flights. As of May 7, 2025, adult travelers (18+) need a REAL ID–compliant license or another TSA-accepted ID to fly within the U.S. ⁹

Completing the Check-In Process and Receiving Your Boarding Pass

Once you’ve entered required information and added any extras, finish check-in to receive your boarding pass. Save it to your wallet or print it. If you checked in online and pre-purchased bags ≤50 lb, you can usually use Bag Drop at the airport—follow signage for the kiosks to tag your own bags. ^{2, 12}

Tips for a Smooth Online Check-In Experience with Spirit Airlines

• Check in early: Set a reminder for T-24 hours to secure seats and purchase bags at lower online rates. ²
• Know the cutoffs: Bag drop closes 45 minutes (domestic) / 60 minutes (international & U.S.V.I.) before departure. ³
• Arrive on time: Plan to be at the gate at least 15 minutes before domestic departures and 30 minutes before international. ³
• Use the app: The Spirit app stores mobile boarding passes and sends check-in and status alerts. ¹¹
• Consider travel options: Premium Economy and Spirit First include more perks (e.g., carry-on, checked bag, priority boarding), which can be cost-effective depending on your needs. ⁶

Understanding the Check-In Deadline and Boarding Time for Spirit Airlines

Online check-in: Opens 24 hours before departure and closes 1 hour before departure for all flights. ^{1, 2}

Bag drop cutoffs: At least 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international/U.S.V.I. flights. ³

Gate timing: Be at the gate ≥15 minutes (domestic) or ≥30 minutes (international) before departure; otherwise, you may lose your reservation. ³

What to Do if You Encounter Issues with Online Check-In for Spirit Airlines

If you have trouble retrieving your reservation or completing check-in:

• Confirm your name and confirmation code match your booking. Try My Trips. ⁷
• Some guests cannot complete check-in online due to travel document or other verifications—use the airport ticket counter. ¹
• Use Spirit’s app or Support pages for guidance and Chat assistance. ¹¹

Making the Most of Online Check-In with Spirit Airlines

Online check-in offers convenience and control. By understanding the timing (T-24 to T-1), baggage options, and document requirements—and by meeting bag-drop and gate cutoffs—you’ll keep your trip smooth and on budget.