Flying on a budget airline does not always mean sacrificing comfort. One of the most popular upgrades on Spirit Airlines is the Big Front Seat — a larger, more comfortable seat positioned at the front of the aircraft. For travelers who want premium-style seating without paying traditional business-class fares, learning the best way to book Spirit Big Front Seat with points can deliver exceptional value.
This guide explains exactly how to use points for Spirit’s Big Front Seat, how the pricing system works, the best redemption strategies, hidden costs to avoid, and expert tips to maximize Free Spirit rewards. Whether you are a casual traveler or a frequent flyer collecting points through travel credit cards and loyalty programs, this article provides actionable advice backed by publicly available airline policies and loyalty program details.
What Is Spirit Big Front Seat?
Spirit Airlines’ Big Front Seat is essentially the airline’s version of a domestic first-class seat — without traditional first-class perks like free meals or lounge access.
Key Features of Big Front Seat
- Wider seats than standard economy
- Extra legroom
- No middle seat
- Located near the front for faster boarding and deplaning
- Reclining seats on most aircraft
- More personal space for longer flights
Unlike many legacy carriers, Spirit separates seat comfort from bundled luxury services. That means passengers pay specifically for the seat itself rather than a complete premium cabin package.
For many travelers, Big Front Seat offers one of the best value upgrades in U.S. domestic aviation.
Can You Book Spirit Big Front Seat With Points?
Yes — but there is an important distinction.
Spirit Airlines generally does not allow travelers to directly redeem Free Spirit points solely for a Big Front Seat upgrade in the same way traditional airlines allow first-class upgrade awards. Instead, the most common strategy is:
- Book the flight using Free Spirit points
- Purchase the Big Front Seat separately during booking or afterward
However, Spirit’s pricing structure occasionally bundles seating options into fare packages, which may indirectly reduce upgrade costs.
Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on Spirit offering a dedicated Big Front Seat award chart.
Understanding the Free Spirit Loyalty Program
The Free Spirit loyalty program uses a dynamic pricing model. This means redemption costs vary based on:
- Demand
- Route popularity
- Travel season
- Booking timing
- Seat availability
How Free Spirit Points Work
Travelers earn points through:
- Flying with Spirit Airlines
- Spending on Free Spirit credit cards
- Dining and shopping partners
- Promotions and bonus campaigns
Points can typically be redeemed for:
- Base airfare
- Taxes and fees (partially)
- Award travel bookings
Spirit moved away from fixed award charts, so prices fluctuate similarly to cash fares.
Best Way to Book Spirit Big Front Seat With Points
The smartest approach combines award booking strategy with timing and pricing awareness.
1: Search for Low Award Flights
First, find flights with low point redemption rates.
Best Practices
- Book early
- Avoid holidays
- Travel midweek
- Use flexible date searches
- Compare nearby airports
Flights with lower cash prices usually require fewer points.
Example
| Route | Cash Fare | Points Required |
|---|---|---|
| Orlando to Las Vegas | $79 | 5,000–8,000 points |
| Chicago to Fort Lauderdale | $65 | 4,000–7,000 points |
| Dallas to Newark | $89 | 6,000–9,000 points |
If you save money on the base award flight, you can allocate more budget toward the Big Front Seat upgrade.
2: Add Big Front Seat During Checkout
After selecting your award flight, Spirit typically allows you to choose seats during the booking flow.
This is often the cheapest time to purchase Big Front Seat access.
Why Booking Early Matters
Spirit uses dynamic seat pricing. The closer to departure, the more expensive premium seats often become.
A Big Front Seat may cost:
| Timing | Typical Upgrade Cost |
|---|---|
| During initial booking | $12–$50 |
| One week before departure | $30–$90 |
| Airport check-in | $50–$150+ |
Booking early can significantly reduce costs.
3: Monitor Upgrade Prices After Booking
Spirit sometimes lowers seat prices when flights are underbooked.
Check periodically through:
- Spirit mobile app
- Online booking management portal
- Email upgrade offers
Travelers occasionally report getting Big Front Seat upgrades for under $20 shortly before departure.
Based on publicly available information, upgrade pricing algorithms are not fully disclosed by Spirit Airlines.
Best Credit Cards for Booking Spirit Big Front Seat
One of the easiest ways to accumulate points is through co-branded airline credit cards.
Popular Options
| Card | Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free Spirit Travel More Mastercard | Bonus points + status earning | Frequent Spirit flyers |
| Free Spirit Travel Mastercard | Everyday point earning | Budget travelers |
| Flexible travel cards | Transferable travel rewards | Occasional Spirit users |
Many travelers use general travel rewards cards to offset upgrade costs through statement credits.
Is Big Front Seat Worth It?
For many travelers, yes.
Big Front Seat vs Standard Economy
| Feature | Standard Seat | Big Front Seat |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Width | Narrow | Much wider |
| Legroom | Basic | Expanded |
| Recline | Limited | Better recline |
| Middle Seat | Yes | No |
| Boarding Position | Standard | Front cabin |
The value becomes especially strong on:
- Cross-country flights
- Overnight travel
- Flights over 3 hours
- Trips involving work productivity
Best Routes for Big Front Seat Value
Certain routes consistently provide better value.
High-Value Routes
- Las Vegas to Orlando
- Newark to Los Angeles
- Fort Lauderdale to Seattle
- Chicago to San Diego
- Dallas to Las Vegas
Longer flights maximize comfort benefits while upgrade prices sometimes remain surprisingly low.
When Spirit Big Front Seat Prices Drop
Timing can dramatically impact pricing.
Cheapest Times to Upgrade
- Tuesday and Wednesday departures
- Off-season months
- Early morning flights
- Flights with low passenger loads
Most Expensive Times
- Holidays
- Spring break
- Summer weekends
- Last-minute business-heavy routes
Dynamic pricing means no guaranteed formula exists, but flexibility helps.
How Spirit Status Can Help
Elite status members sometimes receive additional benefits.
Spirit Status Levels
| Status Tier | Possible Benefits |
|---|---|
| Silver Status | Shortcut boarding, bag benefits |
| Gold Status | Better seat selection options |
Status does not guarantee Big Front Seat upgrades, but it may reduce some travel costs associated with booking.
Can You Upgrade at the Airport?
Yes, and sometimes it is surprisingly cheap.
Gate agents occasionally offer unsold Big Front Seats before boarding.
Airport Upgrade Advantages
- Potential last-minute discounts
- Ability to negotiate based on availability
- No commitment before travel day
Risks
- Limited availability
- No guarantee
- Peak flights may sell out
Frequent Spirit travelers often monitor both app pricing and airport offers simultaneously.
Expert Strategy: Combine Cheap Award Flights With Paid Upgrades
This is often the best overall value strategy.
Example Scenario
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Award ticket | 6,000 points |
| Taxes/fees | $11 |
| Big Front Seat | $28 |
| Total out-of-pocket | $39 + points |
Compared to legacy airline first class fares that may exceed $300–$600, this can represent outstanding value.
Hidden Fees to Watch For
Spirit’s low-cost model means fees matter.
Common Extra Charges
- Checked baggage
- Carry-on bags
- Seat selection
- Flight changes
- Priority boarding
Before upgrading, calculate the total travel cost rather than focusing solely on the seat.
Tips to Maximize Spirit Points Value
Book During Fare Sales
Spirit frequently runs promotions.
Discounted cash fares often translate into lower award prices.
Avoid Peak Travel Dates
Award prices can double or triple during busy periods.
Flexible schedules help maximize redemption value.
Earn Points Through Promotions
Spirit periodically offers:
- Double points promotions
- Status match campaigns
- Shopping portal bonuses
- Dining rewards
These can accelerate point accumulation significantly.
Use Flexible Rewards Programs
Some travelers prefer flexible travel rewards cards because they can:
- Offset seat upgrade purchases
- Redeem for travel statement credits
- Offer broader airline choices
This creates additional booking flexibility.
Comparing Spirit Big Front Seat to Other Airlines
| Airline | Comparable Product | Included Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Spirit | Big Front Seat | Seat only |
| Frontier | UpFront Plus | Extra space |
| JetBlue | Even More Space | Legroom |
| Delta | First Class | Meals + service |
| American | Domestic First | Lounge eligibility on select routes |
Spirit’s strength is affordability rather than luxury inclusions.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make
Waiting Too Long to Upgrade
Prices often rise closer to departure.
Ignoring Bundle Options
Sometimes bundled fares include cheaper seat access.
Redeeming Too Many Points on Expensive Dates
Peak dates often deliver poor redemption value.
Forgetting Baggage Costs
Budget airlines can become expensive once extras are added.
Real-World Example: Best Redemption Strategy
Imagine a traveler flying from Chicago to Las Vegas.
A: Cash Purchase
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Flight | $150 |
| Big Front Seat | $65 |
| Total | $215 |
Scenario B: Points + Upgrade
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Award ticket | 8,000 points |
| Taxes | $11 |
| Big Front Seat | $35 |
| Total Cash | $46 |
This strategy can dramatically lower travel costs while preserving comfort.
How to Book Spirit Big Front Seat With Points: Step-by-Step
1: Log Into Your Free Spirit Account
Visit the official Spirit Airlines website and access your loyalty account.
2: Search Award Flights
Select:
- “Use Points”
- Desired destination
- Flexible dates if possible
3: Compare Redemption Options
Evaluate:
- Point cost
- Taxes
- Flight timing
- Upgrade availability
4: Select Your Flight
Choose the best balance of value and convenience.
5: Add Big Front Seat
During seat selection:
- Review seat map
- Compare prices
- Select preferred row
6: Complete Payment
Pay applicable taxes and upgrade fees.
7: Monitor for Better Upgrade Pricing
After booking:
- Check the app periodically
- Watch for email promotions
- Reassess seat pricing
Advanced Tips From Frequent Travelers
Book One-Way Flights Separately
This allows more flexibility for upgrade pricing and award availability.
Check Multiple Airports
Nearby airports may offer lower redemption costs.
Use Incognito Browsing
Some travelers believe repeated searches increase displayed pricing.
Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed evidence that Spirit adjusts prices based on browser tracking alone.
Fly During Shoulder Seasons
Travel periods between peak and off-peak seasons often offer the best value.
Spirit’s Big Front Seat uniquely appeals to travelers seeking comfort without premium airline pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I directly use Spirit points for Big Front Seat upgrades?
Typically, Spirit points are used for the flight itself, while the Big Front Seat is purchased separately.
Is Big Front Seat the same as first class?
Not exactly. The seat resembles domestic first class in size and comfort, but it usually lacks premium service perks like meals or lounge access.
How much does Spirit Big Front Seat usually cost?
Prices commonly range from $12 to over $150 depending on route, demand, and booking timing.
When is the cheapest time to book Big Front Seat?
Usually during the initial booking process or on lightly booked flights.
Can Free Spirit Gold members get free Big Front Seats?
Gold status may include seat selection benefits, but complimentary Big Front Seat access is not universally guaranteed.
Are Big Front Seats available on every Spirit flight?
Most Spirit aircraft offer Big Front Seats, but configurations vary by aircraft type.
Can I upgrade after booking?
Yes. Travelers can often add or modify seat selections later through the website or app.
Does Big Front Seat include free bags?
Generally no. Spirit charges separately for baggage unless included through status or fare bundles.
Is Big Front Seat worth it for short flights?
For flights under two hours, value depends on personal comfort preferences and pricing.
Do Big Front Seats recline?
Most do, although recline amount varies by aircraft configuration.Final Thoughts
The best way to book Spirit Big Front Seat with points is usually to redeem Free Spirit points for the base airfare while paying cash for the seat upgrade separately. This strategy maximizes flexibility, minimizes total costs, and often delivers a premium-style experience at a fraction of traditional first-class pricing.
Travelers who book early, monitor pricing trends, stay flexible with dates, and leverage loyalty rewards strategically can secure excellent value. While Spirit’s ultra-low-cost model requires careful attention to fees and upgrade costs, savvy travelers regularly find Big Front Seat deals that rival far more expensive airline cabins.
For budget-conscious flyers who still want comfort, Spirit’s Big Front Seat remains one of the strongest hidden-value opportunities in domestic air travel today.
