Spirit Airlines Credit Card Review: Is it Worth it?

Spirit Airlines is known for being a budget-friendly airline that offers low fares and a no-frills approach to air travel. In an effort to further enhance the travel experience for their customers, the airline offers a co-branded credit card in partnership with Bank of America. This Spirit Airlines World Mastercard is designed to provide cardholders with additional benefits and perks when they fly with Spirit, as well as when they make everyday purchases. But is the Spirit Airlines credit card worth it? Let’s take a closer look at the card’s features and benefits to determine if it’s a good fit for frequent Spirit flyers.

First, let’s consider the card’s earning potential. With the Spirit Airlines World Mastercard, cardholders can earn 2 miles for every dollar spent on purchases made directly with Spirit Airlines and 1 mile for every dollar spent on all other purchases. Additionally, new cardholders can earn a sign-up bonus of 10,000 bonus miles after making their first purchase within 90 days of account opening. These miles can be redeemed for flights on Spirit Airlines, as well as for other travel-related purchases such as hotel stays and car rentals.

In terms of rewards, the Spirit Airlines credit card offers some decent value, especially for those who frequently fly with the airline. However, it’s important to note that the redemption options for Spirit miles are more limited compared to other travel rewards programs. While cardholders can use their miles for flights on Spirit Airlines, the airline’s redemption options are more restrictive, with blackout dates and limited availability for award seats. This means that cardholders may have to be more flexible with their travel plans in order to use their miles effectively.

Another key advantage of the Spirit Airlines credit card is the potential for earning a companion voucher. When cardholders make at least $5,000 in purchases on their card within the first 90 days of account opening, they can earn a companion voucher that allows them to bring a guest on a flight for just the cost of taxes and fees. This benefit can provide significant value for frequent Spirit flyers who often travel with a companion.

In addition to earning miles and companion vouchers, the Spirit Airlines credit card also offers a range of other benefits for cardholders. These include priority boarding and domestic and international travel insurance. The card has no foreign transaction fees, making it a good choice for international travelers. Furthermore, the annual fee for the card is relatively low, which can make it a cost-effective option for those who want to maximize their rewards and benefits without breaking the bank.

However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks of the Spirit Airlines credit card as well. One of the main drawbacks is the airline’s reputation for additional fees and charges. Spirit Airlines is known for its à la carte pricing model, where customers pay for additional services such as seat selection, carry-on bags, and in-flight refreshments. This can make the overall cost of flying with Spirit higher than initially advertised, which may reduce the value of the miles earned with the credit card.

Furthermore, the Spirit Airlines credit card may not be the best choice for those who prioritize flexibility and convenience when it comes to redeeming their rewards. Unlike other travel rewards programs, such as those offered by major airlines and hotel chains, Spirit Airlines’ redemption process may be more cumbersome and limited, which can be a drawback for some cardholders.

In conclusion, the Spirit Airlines credit card can offer value for those who frequently fly with the airline and can take advantage of its rewards and benefits. The card’s earning potential, companion voucher, and other perks can provide significant value for Spirit enthusiasts. However, potential cardholders should carefully consider the restrictions and limitations of the airline’s rewards program, as well as the potential for additional fees, before deciding if the card is right for them. As with any credit card, it’s important to carefully evaluate your own travel habits and preferences to determine if the Spirit Airlines credit card is a good fit for your needs.