Allegiant Travel Company: Navigating Deals and Destinations

Thinking about flying with Allegiant Air? It's a popular choice for many travelers looking to save a buck, but like any airline, it has its own way of doing things. This guide breaks down what you need to know about the Allegiant Travel Company, from how they price their tickets to what you can expect once you're on board. We'll cover how to get the best deals and make your trip as smooth as possible.

Key Takeaways

• Allegiant operates on an ultra-low-cost model, meaning base fares are low, but expect to pay extra for things like bags, seat choices, and even snacks.
• Bundling services like bags, seat selection, and Trip Flex can save you money compared to buying them separately.
• The Allegiant Air onboard experience is basic; seats don't recline, and there's no Wi-Fi or in-flight entertainment, so plan to bring your own distractions.
• Trip Flex offers a way to change or cancel your flight for a fee, while a 24-hour window allows penalty-free cancellation if booked far enough in advance.
• The Allways Rewards program and the Allegiant credit card can offer extra perks, including priority boarding and earning points on your travel.

Understanding Allegiant Travel Company's Fare Structure

Allegiant operates on an ultra-low-cost model, which means the price you see for the base ticket is just the starting point. Think of it like building your own travel package, where you only pay for what you actually use. This approach helps them keep those initial fares incredibly low, making it attractive for budget-conscious travelers. However, it's super important to know what's included and what's not before you book.

Allegiant's Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier Model

At its core, Allegiant's strategy is simple: offer a cheap base fare and charge for everything else. This includes things most other airlines might bundle in. So, while the ticket price might look great, be prepared to add costs for things like bags, choosing your seat, and even printing your boarding pass at the airport. They focus on nonstop routes, often to smaller cities, which also helps keep their operational costs down.

The airline's business model is built around minimizing costs at every turn. This translates to fewer frills but more savings for passengers who understand and plan for the add-on charges.

Navigating Additional Fees and Charges

This is where understanding Allegiant really pays off. The only thing guaranteed in the base fare is a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. Everything else – carry-on bags, checked baggage, seat selection, priority boarding – comes with a price tag. These fees can add up, so it's wise to figure out what you need before you finalize your booking. You can often find better deals by bundling these items upfront rather than adding them one by one later. For example, checking a bag can cost more at the airport than pre-purchasing it online. It’s worth looking into their bundle tiers to see if they offer savings.

Here’s a quick look at common extra costs:

• Carry-on Bag: If your bag needs to go in the overhead bin.
• Checked Baggage: For larger bags that go in the cargo hold.
• Seat Selection: If you want to pick a specific seat instead of getting one assigned randomly.
• Priority Access: For earlier boarding.
• Boarding Pass Printing: If you don't use the mobile app.

Fare Classes and Seat Selection Options

Allegiant flies an all-economy cabin, so don't expect any fancy first or business class seats. When you book, you'll either get a seat assigned at random for free, or you can pay to select a specific one. They do offer a couple of upgraded seating options on certain routes. 'Allegiant Extra' seats give you more legroom and priority check-in, plus a reserved spot in the overhead bin. Then there's 'Legroom+' which includes exit row seats and seats at the very front of the plane, also with extra space. If you're tall or just like having more room to stretch out, these can be worth the extra cost, especially on longer flights within their network. Just remember that exit row seats come with responsibilities, like being able to assist in an emergency, and have age restrictions.

Maximizing Value with Allegiant Bundles and Perks

Allegiant airplane flying over palm trees and beach.

Allegiant really makes you think about what you want before you book. They have these bundle options that can save you some cash if you know you'll need extras. It's not just about the flight itself; it's about piecing together the whole trip.

Exploring Allegiant's Bundle Tiers

Allegiant offers a few different bundles, and they're basically packages of common add-ons. Think of them as pre-set deals. You've got the Basic, Bonus, and Total tiers. The Basic bundle is pretty bare-bones, usually just your personal item. The Bonus bundle is where things start getting interesting for many travelers, often including a checked or carry-on bag (depending on the route) and a seat selection. The Total bundle is the most inclusive, adding priority access and Trip Flex to the mix.

Here's a quick look at what you might get:

• Basic: Just your personal item. Good if you're traveling super light.
• Bonus: Personal item, one checked or carry-on bag, and seat selection. This is a popular choice for a reason.
• Total: Personal item, checked bag, carry-on bag, seat selection, priority access, and Trip Flex. For those who want it all.

It often makes sense to bundle these services upfront rather than adding them one by one later, as you usually get a better price this way. You can always tweak things later in the 'Manage Travel' section, but getting it right at booking saves the most hassle.

Benefits of Priority Access and Boarding

Priority access and boarding can make a difference, especially if you're traveling with a lot of gear or just prefer a less crowded experience. With Allegiant, priority access usually means you get to board the plane earlier. This is handy for a few reasons. First, if you have a carry-on bag, getting on early means you're more likely to find space in the overhead bins. Second, it just makes the whole boarding process feel a bit more relaxed. If you've got the Total bundle, priority access is included. It's also a perk you can get with certain seats like Allegiant Extra or Legroom+, or if you have their specific credit card.

Leveraging the Allegiant Credit Card

Now, if you fly Allegiant more than just once in a blue moon, their credit card might be worth a look. The Allegiant Allways Rewards Visa Card comes with some nice perks that can add up. For starters, you often get a free drink on board and priority boarding for yourself and anyone traveling with you, just by showing the card. You also get priority check-in at the airport. This can really streamline your travel day. Plus, the card is tied into their Allways Rewards program, letting you earn points on your spending. They sometimes have special offers for cardholders, like buy-one-get-one-free airfare when you book a vacation package. It’s definitely something to consider if you're a regular Allegiant flyer looking to get a bit more out of your trips.

Allegiant Air's Onboard Experience and Amenities

When you fly Allegiant, it's pretty straightforward. They keep things simple to keep costs down, which means you won't find a lot of the extras you might see on other airlines. Don't expect Wi-Fi or in-flight entertainment systems. It's a good idea to download movies, podcasts, or books onto your devices before you leave home and make sure they're fully charged. For shorter trips, this usually isn't a big deal.

In-Flight Food and Beverage Offerings

Allegiant does sell snacks and drinks during the flight. You can grab standard chip bags, cookies, and other packaged goodies. For drinks, they have sodas, water, tea, and coffee. They also offer some unique zero-proof cocktails if you're looking for something different. If you enjoy a drink, they have a selection of spirits, wine, beer, and signature cocktails. Some snack packs are available, and a portion of the proceeds from certain ones goes to charity, which is a nice touch.

Understanding Seat Comfort and Recline

Allegiant's seats are arranged in an all-economy configuration. A key thing to know is that the seats do not recline. This is a deliberate choice to maximize space and reduce complexity. While it might not be ideal for very long journeys, it's generally manageable for the shorter routes Allegiant typically flies. If you're someone who really values extra legroom, you can opt for Allegiant Extra or Legroom+ seats on select flights, which give you more space, though these come at an additional cost.

Absence of Wi-Fi and In-Flight Entertainment

As mentioned, Allegiant doesn't provide Wi-Fi or any form of in-flight entertainment. This is part of their ultra-low-cost model. To stay occupied, you'll need to bring your own entertainment. Think about downloading music, podcasts, or movies onto your phone or tablet before you board. Make sure your devices are fully charged, as there are no power outlets at the seats either. For a quick trip, this setup works fine, but for longer flights, it's something to prepare for. You can find more information about what to expect on their website.

The focus on keeping fares low means that amenities like Wi-Fi, seat-back screens, and even reclining seats are left out. Travelers should come prepared with their own entertainment and be aware of the seat configuration before booking.

Flexibility and Changes with Allegiant Travel

Allegiant airplane flying over a sunny destination.

Allegiant knows that sometimes plans just don't work out. They've put a few options in place to help you deal with those unexpected changes.

The Trip Flex Option Explained

This is something you can add when you're booking your flight. It costs extra, but it gives you a bit more wiggle room. Basically, if you need to change your flight, you can do it once without paying the usual change fee. You just have to make the change at least an hour before your flight is scheduled to leave. If you decide to cancel your trip and you have Trip Flex, they won't charge you a cancellation fee. However, you'll get a credit for future travel, but they do subtract out carrier charges and booking fees. It's a way to keep your options open, even if it means spending a little more upfront.

Cancellation Policies and Fees

If you don't opt for Trip Flex, things are a bit more rigid. Canceling a flight without Trip Flex usually comes with a fee. It's $25 per person, for each part of your trip. So, if you have a connecting flight, that's two segments, meaning $50 per person. It adds up pretty quickly, so it's something to consider when you're booking.

24-Hour Booking Cancellation Window

Now, here's a bit of good news if you're someone who likes to book and then second-guess. Allegiant does offer a way to cancel your entire trip without any penalty. This applies if you cancel within 24 hours of making the booking. There's one catch, though: your flight needs to be at least seven days away. So, if you book last minute, this option probably won't work for you. It's a nice little safety net for those who need a bit of time to confirm their plans. This policy is part of their "Travel with Confidence" approach, aiming to make booking less stressful.

It's always a good idea to check the specific terms and conditions related to any changes or cancellations, as these can sometimes vary based on the type of fare you purchased or promotional offers.

Allegiant's Loyalty Program and Pet Policy

Allegiant has a loyalty program called 'Allways Rewards,' and it's free to sign up. It's pretty straightforward, though it really shines when you pair it with their credit card. You earn points for every dollar you spend on flights. If you spend less than $500 on your trip, you get one point per dollar. Spend $500 or more, and you'll earn two points for every dollar spent. These points don't just disappear either; they don't expire as long as you've had some account activity in the last 24 months. This could be booking a flight while logged in or just holding their Allways Rewards Visa card.

Introduction to Allways Rewards

The Allways Rewards program is designed to give a little something back to frequent Allegiant flyers. While it doesn't offer a ton on its own, especially after their partnership with Sunseeker resorts ended, it's simple to use. The real benefits kick in when you consider the Allegiant credit card. It's a good option if you fly Allegiant often, as it comes with perks like a free drink, priority boarding for you and your travel companions, and priority check-in at the airport. They also frequently have special deals for cardholders, like buy-one-get-one-free airfare when you book a vacation package with a certain number of hotel nights or rental car days. It's always a good idea to check their destination offers; they've saved me money more than once.

Earning and Redeeming Points

Earning points with Allegiant is tied to your spending. As mentioned, you get one point per dollar for itineraries under $500 and two points per dollar for those $500 and over. Redeeming points is also quite flexible. The Allegiant Allways Rewards Visa Card, for instance, has no blackout dates or restrictions on where you can go or how many points you need to redeem. You can check your point status on your myAllegiant account page on allegiant.com.

Traveling with Pets on Allegiant

Good news if you like to travel with your furry friends: Allegiant allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin with you. You'll need to keep your pet in a carrier, either hard or soft, that meets the airline's size requirements. There's a fee of $50 per flight segment for this service. Just a heads-up, this pet policy only applies to travel within the 48 contiguous United States. It's a nice perk if you don't want to leave your pet behind, and for shorter trips, it's quite convenient.

Allegiant keeps its costs down by charging for extras, but this also means you need to be aware of what's included and what isn't. Always check the details of your fare and any bundles you consider. For budget travel, understanding these details can make a big difference in your overall trip cost. If you're looking for more ways to travel affordably, exploring options like home swapping can be a great addition to your travel planning toolkit.

Practical Tips for Allegiant Air Travelers

Allegiant Air operates a bit differently than your typical airline, so knowing a few things upfront can make your trip smoother. Being prepared is key to enjoying the ultra-low-cost experience.

Online Check-In and Mobile Boarding Passes

Online check-in is available starting 24 hours before your flight and closes 45 minutes prior to departure. It's a good idea to get this done as soon as it opens, especially if you want to snag a decent seat assignment or just get it out of the way. When you check in online, you'll have the option to get a mobile boarding pass through the Allegiant app. This is super convenient and, importantly, it saves you money. Printing a boarding pass at the airport counter will cost you an extra fee, so definitely use your phone instead. The app works at all their destinations, so you don't have to worry about compatibility.

Utilizing the Allegiant App

The Allegiant app is more than just a place for your boarding pass. It's your go-to for managing your booking, checking flight status, and even making last-minute changes if needed. Since Allegiant doesn't have self-service kiosks, the app becomes even more useful. It's pretty straightforward to use, and having everything in one place on your phone really cuts down on airport stress. Make sure your phone is charged before you head out!

Understanding Boarding Zones

Allegiant uses boarding zones, and they're generally pretty organized. You'll have pre-boarding for those needing extra help, followed by priority access. This priority group includes folks who bought priority boarding, have Allegiant Extra or Legroom+ seats, or hold the Allegiant credit card. Active military personnel also get priority boarding. After that, they usually board by row number. Knowing your zone helps you figure out when to head to the gate, so you're not stuck waiting around longer than necessary.

Remember that Allegiant is an ultra-low-cost carrier. This means they keep their base fares low by charging for almost everything else. Think about what you really need before you fly and factor those costs in. Sometimes, paying for a checked bag is actually cheaper than a carry-on with Allegiant, so compare your options carefully.

Here's a quick look at some common fees to keep in mind:

Wrapping It Up

So, when it comes down to it, Allegiant is a pretty straightforward airline. They keep their prices low by charging for all the extras, which is fine if you know what you're getting into. For short trips where you don't need a lot of frills, it can be a really good deal. Just remember to pack light, maybe grab a seat with a bit more legroom if you can swing it, and definitely download your entertainment beforehand. If you're looking for a no-nonsense way to get to certain spots in the US without breaking the bank, Allegiant is definitely worth a look.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Allegiant's pricing work?

Allegiant is known for its super cheap base fares. Think of it like buying a basic ticket and then adding on whatever you need. Things like choosing your seat, bringing a carry-on bag, or even checking a bag cost extra. So, while the initial price looks really low, be ready to pay for the extras you want.

What are the Allegiant bundles?

Allegiant offers bundles to help you save money on common add-ons. There are a few different types, like 'Bonus' or 'Total.' These packages often include things like a checked bag, a carry-on bag, and the ability to pick your seat. It's usually cheaper to buy these upfront in a bundle than to add each item separately.

Can I change or cancel my Allegiant flight?

Yes, Allegiant has an option called 'Trip Flex' that you can buy when you book. It lets you change your flight one time without paying a change fee, as long as you do it at least an hour before your flight. If you cancel with Trip Flex, you usually get a credit for a future flight instead of your money back. If you don't buy Trip Flex, you can cancel within 24 hours of booking for free, as long as your flight is more than 7 days away. After that, changes and cancellations usually have fees.

What's the deal with seat selection on Allegiant?

Allegiant doesn't have different classes like first or business class; everyone sits in economy. If you don't pay to pick a seat, Allegiant will give you one randomly when you check in. They do offer seats with more legroom, sometimes in exit rows or closer to the front of the plane, for an extra charge. These 'Allegiant Extra' or 'Legroom+' seats can make your flight more comfortable.

Does Allegiant have Wi-Fi or entertainment on the plane?

No, Allegiant flights do not offer Wi-Fi or any in-flight entertainment like movies or TV shows. They keep their costs low by skipping these extras. It's a good idea to download anything you want to watch or read onto your phone or tablet before you board, and make sure your devices are fully charged.

Can I bring my pet on Allegiant?

Yes, Allegiant allows small dogs and cats to travel with you in the cabin. Your pet needs to be in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. There's a fee for bringing a pet, which is charged for each part of your trip (each flight segment). This service is only for flights within the 48 states.