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Spirit Airlines Check-In Process Step-by-Step

Author : Thomas grey | Published On : 19 Feb 2026

Checking in correctly is one of the most important parts of flying with Spirit Airlines. Because it’s an ultra-low-cost carrier, missing deadlines or checking in at the airport can cost extra money. The good news: the process is simple once you know the steps. This guide walks you through the Spirit Airlines check-in process step-by-step so you can avoid fees, skip long lines, and board smoothly.

When Check-In Opens and Closes

Timing matters more with Spirit than with most airlines.

Type

Time

Online check-in opens

24 hours before departure

Online check-in closes

1 hour before departure

Airport counter closes

45 minutes before departure

Boarding gate closes

15 minutes before departure

Arriving late may cause you to lose your ticket value, so always plan extra time.

Step 1: Online Check-In (Recommended)

This is the fastest and cheapest way.

How to do it:

  1. Visit Spirit Airlines website or mobile app
     

  2. Enter confirmation code and last name
     

  3. Confirm passenger details
     

  4. Select seats (optional paid option)
     

  5. Add bags if needed (cheaper online)
     

  6. Download or print boarding pass
     

Why this matters: Spirit charges for airport check-in printing in many cases, so mobile boarding passes save money.

Step 2: Add Bags and Seats Early

Spirit separates fares from extras. During check-in you can add:

  • Carry-on bags
     

  • Checked baggage
     

  • Seat selection
     

  • Shortcut boarding
     

Adding these during online check-in is cheaper than paying at the airport counter.

Step 3: Mobile Boarding Pass

After check-in you’ll receive a digital boarding pass. Save it by:

  • Screenshotting the QR code
     

  • Adding to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet
     

  • Keeping email copy
     

Airports sometimes have weak internet screenshots prevent stress at security.

Step 4: Arrive at the Airport

Recommended arrival time:

  • Domestic flights: 2 hours early
     

  • Busy airports/holidays: 3 hours early
     

Even if you checked in online, you still need time for:

  • Security screening
     

  • Bag drop (if checking luggage)
     

  • Boarding group call
     

Step 5: Bag Drop Counter

If you paid for checked baggage:

  1. Go to Spirit bag drop line
     

  2. Show ID and boarding pass
     

  3. Attach printed bag tag
     

  4. Drop luggage
     

Bag drop closes 45 minutes before departure after that, bags are refused.

Step 6: Security and Boarding

After security, go directly to the gate. Spirit boards quickly.

Boarding groups:

  1. Shortcut Boarding
     

  2. Zone 1
     

  3. Zone 2
     

  4. Zone 3
     

Gate closes 15 minutes before departure. If you’re not there, the seat may be given away.

Important Tips to Avoid Problems

  • Always check in exactly 24 hours early
     

  • Screenshot boarding pass
     

  • Prepay bags online
     

  • Reach gate early (boarding starts early)
     

  • Don’t rely on final boarding calls
     

Most missed Spirit flights happen because passengers arrive at the gate too late not the airport.

What Happens If You Don’t Check In?

If you fail to check in before cutoff:

  • You may be marked as no-show
     

  • Ticket value can be lost
     

  • Return flights may cancel
     

Even checking in 10 minutes late can cause issues, so set a reminder alarm.

Final Thoughts

The Spirit Airlines check-in process is simple but strict. The airline keeps fares low by charging for airport services and enforcing deadlines carefully. By checking in online, arriving early, and keeping your boarding pass ready, you can avoid extra fees and travel stress-free.