Steven Frischling recently posted an article on his blog outlining the new Spirit Airlines fees for carry-on luggage. He did an excellent comparison that showed that the very idea of buying a ticket on this low-cost carrier can easily turn into a pretty expensive proposition. If you plan on flying on the cheap–you may actually do better elsewhere.

My online ticket price was quoted at $364.70, included their infamous passenger usage fee! If you do some of these things, you’ll pay extra:

• Purchase a ticket (passenger usage fee)
• Select a seat assignment
• Choose a seat with extra legroom
• Check a bag
• Carry on a bag
• Request a soda. Tap water is free

Oh, did you notice that the cost of travel insurance was added automatically, unless I opted out?

It really does go on and on. One of the main problems is that there is almost no way to anticipate the extra charges unless you know what to ask about. Both on their website and via their telephone reservations agents, it’s virtually impossible to proactively prepare for the fees. The screen-shot illustrates how almost every fee is hidden until after the ticket is purchased. This is where regulation must require a full disclosure of during the booking process.

I decided to give Spirit Airlines a call to hear just how they handle presenting all of these fees to customers over the phone. Although the reservations agent was very friendly, it was instantly apparent how confusing it can be for almost any traveler. Not every passenger know the questions to ask.  Had I not known and gone ahead and booked this flight; I would have been very surprised at the airport.

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