What to Know Before Flying Allegiant Air

So, you're considering flying with Allegiant Air? Known for its ultra-low fares, Allegiant can be a budget traveler's dream. However, before you book that incredibly cheap flight, it's crucial to understand their unique business model and potential drawbacks. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your Allegiant experience is smooth and cost-effective.

Understanding the Allegiant Air Model

Allegiant Air operates on an unbundled pricing model. This means the base fare you see advertised is typically just for a seat on the plane. Everything else – checked bags, carry-on bags, seat selection, even water onboard – comes with an additional fee. This allows them to offer incredibly low starting prices, attracting budget-conscious travelers. The key is to factor in these extra costs before you commit to a flight so you're not surprised by the final price.

Hidden Fees and How to Avoid Them

This is where many first-time Allegiant Air flyers get caught. Let's break down the most common fees and how to potentially avoid them:

• Baggage Fees: This is the big one. Checked baggage fees can be quite steep, and even carry-on bags larger than a personal item (like a purse or small backpack) incur a fee. Avoidance strategy: Pack light! Adhere strictly to the personal item size limits. If you absolutely need to bring more, pre-purchasing your baggage allowance online is significantly cheaper than paying at the airport. Consider shipping items to your destination.
• Seat Selection: Want to choose your seat? That's an extra fee. If you don't pay, Allegiant Air will assign you a seat at random. Avoidance strategy: If you're not picky about where you sit, skip seat selection. But be warned: if you're traveling with companions, you might be separated. If traveling with children, carefully consider paying for seat selection to ensure you are seated together.
• Boarding Pass Printing: Believe it or not, printing your boarding pass at the airport incurs a fee. Avoidance strategy: Check in online and download your boarding pass to your phone or print it at home before heading to the airport.
• In-Flight Purchases: Unlike many airlines that offer complimentary beverages, everything on Allegiant Air, including water, snacks, and drinks, comes at a cost. Avoidance strategy: Bring your own empty water bottle and fill it up after going through security. Pack your own snacks to avoid paying inflated prices onboard.
• Change/Cancellation Fees: These fees can be substantial. Avoidance strategy: Be certain of your travel plans before booking. Consider purchasing trip insurance that covers cancellations or changes due to unforeseen circumstances.

Know Before You Go: Allegiant Air Policies

Familiarizing yourself with Allegiant Air's policies is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Here's a summary of key policies:

The Allegiant Air Experience: What to Expect

Allegiant Air typically flies to smaller, regional airports, which can be a pro or a con depending on your destination. The planes are usually older and may lack some of the amenities you'd find on larger airlines, such as in-flight entertainment. Remember, you're paying for transportation, and extras come at a cost. Delays are not uncommon, so it’s wise to buffer your schedule.

Is Allegiant Air Right for You?

Ultimately, whether Allegiant Air is a good choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're a flexible traveler who can pack light and doesn't mind sacrificing some comforts for a significantly lower fare, then Allegiant Air can be a great option. However, if you value convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free experience, you might be better off paying a bit more to fly with a different airline.

Before booking, carefully weigh the potential savings against the added fees and restrictions. With proper planning and awareness, you can make an informed decision and potentially save a significant amount of money on your next flight. Remember to always check the Allegiant Air website for the most up-to-date policies and fees.