8 Insider Tips for a Smooth Allegiant Air Flight

Did you know that flying with Allegiant Air can make travel more affordable?

If you’ve never heard of Allegiant, it’s becoming a more well-known American low-cost airline.

They provide budget-friendly fares and a no-thrills flying experience. Allegiant connects smaller airports to popular vacation destinations. This makes it an attractive choice if you’re seeking affordable getaways.

It’s important to be aware, however, that Allegiant operates differently from other airlines. Before you get mesmerized by their low prices, allow us to share our personal experience.

With these tips, allow us to guide you through a seamless and enjoyable flying experience!

Top 8 Tips for Flying With Allegiant Air

Tip 1: Understand Allegiant Air Baggage Policy

Carry-On and Checked Baggage Allowances 

Allegiant Air has specific rules for carry-on and checked bags. Each passenger is allowed one personal item for free. This could be a purse, small backpack, or laptop bag. Make sure it fits under the seat in front of you.

If you need more space, you can pay for a carry-on bag, which should fit in the overhead bin. Checked baggage costs extra and must weigh no more than 50 pounds each.

Packing Tips

• Personal Item: Pack your essentials like a phone charger, snacks, and a good book. Keep it light and easy to access.
• Carry-On Bag: Roll your clothes to save space. Put heavier items like shoes at the bottom. Remember, liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and fit in a quart-sized bag.
• Checked Bag: Use packing cubes to organize and compress your clothes. Check the weather at your destination and pack accordingly to avoid overpacking.

Tip 2: Book Your Seat in Advance

Allegiant airline is very basic. The seats are basic. The service is basic. Comfort is basic.

One of the best ways to ensure a comfortable flight with Allegiant Air, however, is to book your seat in advance.

Advantages of Selecting Your Seat Early 

Booking your seat early gives you control over where you sit. Whether you prefer a window seat or an aisle seat, choosing your seat ahead of time ensures you get your preferred spot. This is especially important if you’re traveling with family or friends and want to sit together.

How to Book Your Seat

1. During Booking: When you book your flight on Allegiant Air’s website, you’ll be given the option to select your seat. Take advantage of this to choose your preferred spot.
2. After Booking: If you didn’t choose a seat during booking, you can still do it later. Log into your Allegiant Air account, find your upcoming flight, and select your seat from there.
3. At Check-In: If you didn’t book a seat in advance, you might still get a chance during check-in. However, availability will be limited, and you might not get your preferred seat.

Seating Options and Fees 

Allegiant Air offers a variety of seating options. Standard seats are the most affordable, while seats with extra legroom come at a higher cost.

Based on our personal experience, we believe it’s worth considering the additional fee for extra legroom. Taking the plunge and splurging on extra legroom can greatly enhance your flying experience, and you’ll thank us later for the added comfort.

Tip 3: Check-In Online

Benefits of Online Check-In 

Checking in online lets you skip the long lines at the airport. It’s quick, easy, and can be done from the comfort of your home, up to 24 hours before your flight.

How to Check-In Online

1. Visit Allegiant Air’s Website: Go to Allegiant Air’s website and find the check-in page. You can also use their mobile app.
2. Enter Your Details: You’ll need your confirmation number, first and last name to access your booking.
3. Follow the Steps: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your check-in. You’ll be asked to confirm your flight details, select your seat if you haven’t already, and agree to the airline’s terms and conditions.
4. Print Your Boarding Pass: Once you’ve checked in, you can print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device.

Tip 4: Be Prepared for Additional Fees

Common Extra Charges 

Allegiant Air offers low base fares, but they often charge extra for various services.

• Seat Selection: If you want to choose your seat in advance, you’ll likely have to pay a fee. The cost can vary depending on the seat you select.
• Baggage Fees: Carry-on and checked bags come with extra charges. The fees are lower if you pay for your bags online in advance rather than at the airport.
• In-Flight Refreshments: Allegiant Air does not offer free snacks or drinks on board. Be prepared to pay for any refreshments you want during your flight.
• Priority Boarding: If you want to board the plane early, you can pay for priority boarding to ensure you have enough overhead bin space for your carry-on.

Tips to Minimize Additional Costs

• Book Extras in Advance: Pay for your seat selection, baggage, and any other extras when you book your flight or during online check-in. This is usually cheaper than paying at the airport.
• Pack Smart: Stick to a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you to avoid carry-on and checked baggage fees.
• Bring Your Own Snacks: Save money by bringing your own snacks and a refillable water bottle.
• Print Your Boarding Pass at Home: Print boarding passes at home or get a mobile boarding pass. Printing your boarding pass at the airport will cost extra.

Tip 5: Bring Your Own Snacks and Entertainment

When flying with Allegiant Air, bringing your own snacks and entertainment can make your flight more enjoyable.

Allowed Food and Beverages 

Allegiant Air doesn’t offer complimentary snacks or drinks, so it’s a good idea to pack your own. You can bring food and beverages through security, as long as you follow TSA rules:

• Beverages: You can bring an empty water bottle and fill it up after passing through security. Liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less if packed in your carry-on bag.

Suggestions for In-Flight Entertainment 

Keeping yourself entertained during your flight can help pass the time and make your trip more pleasant. Here are some ideas:

• Download Movies or Shows: Before your flight, download your favorite movies or TV shows to your device. This way, you’ll have plenty of entertainment without relying on in-flight services.
• Bring a Good Book: A good book or e-reader can be a great way to unwind and make the time fly by.
• Games and Apps: Load your phone or tablet with games and apps to keep yourself occupied. Many apps work offline, so you don’t need Wi-Fi to enjoy them during your flight.

Tip 6: Understand Allegiant Air’s Cancellation and Change Policies

Cancellation Policy 

Allegiant Air offers several options if you need to cancel your flight:

• 24-Hour Cancellation: You can cancel your flight for a full refund within 24 hours of booking, as long as the flight is at least 7 days away.
• Trip Flex: If you purchased Trip Flex when booking your flight, you can change your reservation once without paying a change fee.
• Standard Cancellation: Without Trip Flex, cancellations are subject to a fee, and the remaining balance is issued as a credit for future travel on Allegiant Air. These credits typically expire one year from the date of issue.
• Credit Card Protection: Some credit cards also provide trip interruption insurance. Know what your credit card offers prior to booking your flight. You should be able to look up your travel benefits on the credit card’s website/online portal.

For example, Chase Sapphire Preferred offers Trip Cancellation / Interruption Insurance. If your trip is canceled or cut short by sickness, severe weather and other covered situations, you can be reimbursed up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for your pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses.

Change Policy

• Fees: Changing your flight usually comes with a fee. The amount varies depending on the route and timing of the change. Trip Flex can help you avoid this fee.
• Process: To change your flight, log in to your Allegiant Air account, find your booking, and follow the steps to make changes. You can also contact Allegiant Air’s customer service for assistance.

Tip 7: Understand Allegiant Air’s Pricing

Base Fares and A La Carte Pricing 

Allegiant Air operates on an ultra-low-cost model, offering low base fares with additional charges for various services.

• Base Fare: This is the initial price you see when booking your flight. It includes your seat and a small personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.
• A La Carte Services: Allegiant Air charges extra for services like checked bags, carry-on bags, seat selection, and in-flight refreshments. These fees are not included in the base fare. Some of the extra add-ons are as follows:
  • Priority Access: $4-$12
  • Food & Beverage: $2-$7
  • Call Center Booking Fee: $14.99 >>> (Don’t book over the phone)
  • Boarding Pass Printing: $5
  • Carry-On Bag: $10-$75
  • Seat Selection: $0-$80

Booking Tips

• Book Early: Allegiant Air often offers lower prices for flights booked well in advance. As the departure date approaches, fares can increase.
• Be Flexible: If your travel dates are flexible, use Allegiant Air’s fare calendar to find the cheapest days to fly. Midweek flights are often less expensive than weekend flights.
• Check for Deals: Allegiant Air frequently runs promotions and discounts. Sign up for their email alerts or follow them on social media to stay informed about special offers.

Tip 8: Be Flexible Due to Point-to-Point Flights

Allegiant Airlines operate on a point-to-point basis. Understanding how this works can help you stay flexible and make the most of your travel plans.

What Are Point-to-Point Flights? 

Point-to-point flights mean that their routes are direct between smaller, regional airports rather than major hubs. This model helps keep costs low and provides more direct travel options.

Benefits of Point-to-Point Flights

• Direct Routes: Enjoy the convenience of flying directly to your destination without the hassle of layovers.
• Cost Savings: Allegiant Air often passes on the savings from operating point-to-point flights to passengers through lower fares.
• Less Crowded Airports: Flying through smaller, regional airports can mean shorter security lines and less crowded terminals.

Tips for Staying Flexible

• Have Backup Plans: Because Allegiant Air has fewer flights on each route, delays or cancellations can be more challenging to rebook. Always have a backup plan, such as knowing alternative flights or airports.
• Check Nearby Airports: If your preferred destination airport doesn’t have a suitable flight, look at nearby airports. Allegiant Air often serves several airports in a region.
• Allow Extra Travel Time: Build in some extra time for your travel plans. If there are delays, you’ll have a buffer to still reach your destination.
• Monitor Flight Status: Stay updated on your flight status through Allegiant Air’s website or mobile app.

Do We Recommend Allegiant?

It depends.

We recommend Allegiant if:	We don’t recommend Allegiant if:
1. You’re looking for a quick plane ride 2. Are content with basic amenities 3. Are satisfied with a no-thrills flying experience 4. Have no plans to pay for upgrades	1. You’re used to luxurious accommodations 2. You enjoy complimentary snacks 3. Are carrying many bags.

In the end, determining whether Allegiant is the best choice for your travel depends on your personal preferences and the needs of your family. Based on our experience, we found that for our quick 2-hour flight from Concord to Orlando, the reduced price tag of Allegiant was worth it.

However, for longer flights, we would have preferred more comfortable accommodations.

Therefore, If you prioritize cost savings and have a shorter flight duration, Allegiant can be a suitable option. If you value enhanced comfort and are embarking on a longer journey, however, you may find other airlines with more comfortable amenities to better fit your needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I know about Allegiant Air’s baggage fees?

Allegiant Air charges fees for both carry-on and checked baggage, and the prices vary depending on when you purchase. To save money, it’s best to pay for your baggage online during the booking process or at check-in, as fees are higher at the airport. Carry-on bags must fit in the overhead bin, and checked bags should not exceed 50 pounds in weight.

Can I change my Allegiant Air flight after booking?

Yes, you can change your Allegiant Air flight, but there may be a fee unless you purchased Trip Flex. Trip Flex allows you to make one change to your booking without paying a change fee, giving you more flexibility. If you didn’t buy Trip Flex, you’ll be charged a fee based on the route and timing of the change. You can make changes by logging into your Allegiant Air account online or by contacting customer service.

What are Allegiant Air’s seating options and costs?

You can check in for your Allegiant Air flight online starting 24 hours before departure. Visit Allegiant Air’s website or use their mobile app to check in, confirm your flight details, and print your boarding pass or save it to your phone. Online check-in is the quickest way to avoid airport lines. If you can’t check in online, you can also do so at the airport, but be sure to arrive early to allow enough time.

What is Allegiant Air’s policy on flight cancellations and refunds?

Allegiant Air allows you to cancel your flight for a full refund within 24 hours of booking if your flight is at least 7 days away. If you purchased Trip Flex, you can cancel your flight and receive a credit for future travel without paying a cancellation fee. Without Trip Flex, cancellations are subject to a fee, and the remaining balance is issued as a travel credit. Travel credits typically expire one year from the date they are issued, so be sure to use them before they expire.

Does Allegiant Air offer in-flight entertainment and meals?

Allegiant Air does not provide free in-flight entertainment or meals. 

What is the phone number for Allegiant Air's customer service?

1 (702) 505-8888