For travelers seeking the absolute lowest fares, Allegiant Air often emerges as a frontrunner. This ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) has carved a niche in the aviation industry by offering rock-bottom prices on flights, primarily catering to leisure travelers heading to popular vacation destinations.
However, Allegiant's approach to affordability comes with a trade-off. Unlike traditional airlines that bundle various services into their ticket prices, Allegiant operates on an à la carte basis. This means passengers pay for only the essentials, like their seat, while additional services, such as baggage, seat selection, and even onboard drinks, come at an extra cost.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the nuances of flying with Allegiant Air, equipping you with the knowledge to determine if this budget-friendly airline aligns with your travel needs and preferences.
Understanding Allegiant's Business Model: The ULCC Approach
To fully grasp Allegiant's pricing strategy and overall passenger experience, it's crucial to understand the concept of an ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC).
Key Characteristics of ULCCs:
- Minimalist Base Fare: The advertised price covers only the bare minimum – your seat on the plane. Everything else, from baggage to seat selection, comes at an additional cost.
- Focus on Point-to-Point Routes: Unlike legacy airlines with extensive hub-and-spoke networks, ULCCs typically operate direct flights between popular destinations, often bypassing major hubs.
- Secondary Airports: To minimize operational costs, ULCCs often utilize smaller, less congested secondary airports, which may be located farther from city centers.
- Single Aircraft Type: To streamline maintenance and training, ULCCs often maintain a fleet consisting of a single aircraft type, usually known for fuel efficiency.
- Limited In-Flight Services: Don't expect complimentary meals or entertainment on ULCC flights. Basic snacks and drinks are typically available for purchase.
How Allegiant Embraces the ULCC Model:
Allegiant meticulously applies these ULCC principles to offer some of the most competitive airfares in the industry:
- Unbundled Fares: Allegiant's fares cover only the flight itself. Passengers have the flexibility to add desired extras, such as baggage, seat assignments, and priority boarding, for an additional fee.
- Focus on Leisure Routes: Allegiant strategically connects smaller cities with popular vacation spots, often bypassing major hubs to minimize costs.
- Use of Smaller Airports: The airline frequently utilizes secondary airports, which often have lower landing fees, contributing to their lower fares.
- All-Airbus Fleet: Allegiant operates an all-Airbus fleet, primarily Airbus A319s and A320s, known for their fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs.
- No-Frills Onboard: While basic snacks and beverages are available for purchase, don't anticipate complimentary meals, entertainment systems, or Wi-Fi on Allegiant flights.
Navigating Allegiant's Fees: What to Expect
One of the most critical aspects of flying Allegiant is understanding their fee structure. While their base fares are enticing, additional costs can quickly add up if you're not careful. Here's a breakdown of common Allegiant fees:
Baggage Fees:
Allegiant has one of the most comprehensive baggage fee structures among U.S. airlines. Fees vary based on:
- Route: Fees are generally higher for flights to/from international destinations and certain peak travel periods.
- Number of Bags: Each checked and carry-on bag is subject to a fee.
- Baggage Weight and Size: Overweight and oversized bags incur additional fees.
- Time of Purchase: Booking your bags online during the initial reservation process typically offers the lowest fees. Fees increase if added later or at the airport.
It's essential to carefully review Allegiant's baggage fee chart on their website for the most up-to-date information specific to your itinerary.
Seat Selection Fees:
Allegiant utilizes a random seat assignment process unless you pay for a preferred seat. Seat selection fees vary depending on the type of seat and the route. If you're particular about sitting with your travel companions or prefer specific seat locations (window, aisle, extra legroom), factor in these fees when comparing overall trip costs.
Other Potential Fees:
- Carry-on Baggage Fees: Unlike some airlines that allow a free personal item, Allegiant charges for all carry-on bags, except for a small personal item that fits under the seat.
- Priority Boarding: For an additional fee, you can board the aircraft earlier, increasing your chances of securing overhead bin space for your carry-on luggage.
- Trip Flex: This optional add-on provides flexibility by allowing one free date or flight change (fare differences may apply) up to 24 hours before departure.
- Pet Fees: If you're traveling with a pet in the cabin, fees apply. Note that there are limitations on the number of pets allowed per flight.
Tips for Saving Money on Allegiant Flights
While Allegiant's fee structure might seem daunting, several strategies can help you minimize costs and maximize your travel budget:
1. Pack Light and Utilize Your Free Personal Item Allowance:
The most effective way to avoid baggage fees is to pack minimally. Take full advantage of Allegiant's free personal item allowance, typically a backpack or small purse that fits under the seat in front of you. Mastering the art of packing light can significantly reduce your overall trip costs.
2. Book Your Bags Online During the Initial Reservation Process:
Allegiant incentivizes early baggage bookings by offering the lowest fees during the online reservation process. Avoid waiting until you're at the airport, where fees are significantly higher.
3. Consider Joining the Allegiant Allways Rewards Program:
While not as feature-rich as traditional airline loyalty programs, Allegiant Allways Rewards can offer savings for frequent Allegiant flyers. Members may receive discounts on baggage fees and other perks.
4. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates and Times:
Allegiant's fares are often demand-based, fluctuating based on the day of the week and time of year. If your schedule is flexible, experiment with different travel dates and times to potentially uncover lower fares.
5. Pack Snacks and Drinks:
Since Allegiant doesn't offer complimentary onboard meals or drinks, pack your own snacks and refillable water bottle to save money and avoid purchasing overpriced items during the flight.
6. Print Your Boarding Pass at Home:
Allegiant charges a fee for printing boarding passes at the airport. Save a few dollars by printing your boarding pass at home or downloading it to your mobile device.
Allegiant Destinations: Where Can You Fly?
Allegiant primarily focuses on connecting smaller cities with popular leisure destinations across the United States. Their route network continues to expand, and they've also ventured into limited international service, primarily to destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean.
Popular Allegiant Destinations Include:
- Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS)
- Orlando, Florida (SFB)
- St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Florida (PIE)
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida (FLL)
- Phoenix, Arizona (AZA)
- Los Angeles, California (LAX)
- Cancun, Mexico (CUN)
- Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ)
To explore Allegiant's full list of destinations and route map, visit their website.
Allegiant Air: Is It Right for You?
Deciding whether Allegiant Air aligns with your travel needs requires careful consideration of your priorities and travel style.
Allegiant is a Good Fit for Travelers Who:
- Prioritize Low Fares Above All Else: If finding the absolute cheapest airfare is your primary concern, Allegiant is hard to beat.
- Are Extremely Budget-Conscious: Travelers on a tight budget who are willing to pack light and forgo extras will appreciate Allegiant's bare-bones approach.
- Have Flexible Travel Plans: Those with schedule flexibility can take advantage of Allegiant's often fluctuating fares to snag the best deals.
- Are Traveling to/from Allegiant's Focus Cities: Allegiant's route network caters to specific regions and leisure destinations. Check if their routes align with your travel plans.
Allegiant Might Not Be the Best Fit for Travelers Who:
- Value Convenience and Comfort: If you prioritize a seamless and comfortable travel experience with included amenities, Allegiant's à la carte model might not be ideal.
- Travel with a Lot of Luggage: Allegiant's baggage fees can quickly add up, making it less cost-effective for travelers with multiple checked bags or large carry-ons.
- Require In-Flight Services or Entertainment: If you rely on in-flight Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, or complimentary meals, Allegiant's no-frills approach might not meet your needs.
- Have Strict Time Constraints: While Allegiant strives for on-time performance, ULCCs are known for potential delays and disruptions. If your schedule is inflexible, a traditional airline might offer more reliability.
In Conclusion: Weighing the Trade-offs
Allegiant Air has disrupted the aviation industry by offering some of the lowest airfares available. Their ultra-low-cost model caters to a specific type of traveler – one who prioritizes affordability above all else and is willing to sacrifice certain conveniences to unlock those budget-friendly fares.
By understanding Allegiant's fee structure, route network, and overall approach to air travel, you can make informed decisions about whether this airline aligns with your travel priorities. When booked strategically, Allegiant can unlock significant travel savings, allowing you to allocate more of your budget to enjoying your destination.