Spirit Airlines has built its reputation on offering no-frills point-to-point travel, and understanding their policies on alcohol is essential for a stress-free journey. While the carrier does not provide complimentary beverages in the cabin, the process for purchasing and consuming alcohol on board is straightforward and designed for convenience. This guide breaks down the specifics of drinking policies, from what you can bring to how to make purchases during your flight.
Bringing Alcohol Through Security
Travelers often wonder if they can save money by grabbing a drink before they board. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows sealed alcohol in checked baggage, provided the container is unopened and the alcohol content is below 70%. For carry-on items, strict liquid rules apply. Alcohol in containers larger than 3.4 ounces, or 100 milliliters, is prohibited in the personal item or overhead bin. This means any open bottle or large flask will be confiscated at the checkpoint.
Purchasing Alcohol On Board
Once in the air, Spirit transforms into a mobile convenience store. The flight attendants offer a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and various spirits. Payment can be made easily using a credit card through the seatback entertainment system or via the Spirit Airlines app. This mobile ordering feature allows you to browse the menu and pay without waiting for a physical visit from the cart, making the process efficient even on shorter flights.
Costs and Fees
As part of their ultra-low-cost business model, Spirit charges for almost every amenity, including alcohol. Prices are listed in the in-flight catalog or app and tend to be higher than standard retail prices due to the convenience of the service. It is wise to budget accordingly, as the cost of a simple beer or cocktail is an additional expense on top of the base ticket fare. There are no happy hour deals or complimentary samples, only à la carte pricing.
Legal Age and Identification
To purchase or consume alcohol on a Spirit flight, you must be of legal drinking age, which is 21 years old in the United States. Passengers who appear to be younger than 30 are typically asked to present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, before the alcohol sale is finalized. This verification helps the airline comply with federal regulations and avoid serving minors.
Liquor and Mixed Drinks
If you prefer a stiffer drink or a specific cocktail, Spirit allows passengers to bring their own liquor aboard within strict limits. The alcohol must be in a container that is both unopened and sealed, and it must fit within the standard checked baggage requirements. While the airline does not mix drinks for you, you are permitted to combine your own purchased spirit with soda or juice from the beverage cart to create a personalized cocktail at 35,000 feet.
Responsible Travel Policies
To ensure safety and comfort for all guests, Spirit enforces strict rules regarding intoxication. Flight attendants reserve the right to refuse service to any passenger who appears intoxicated or disorderly. Consuming alcohol brought on board that was not purchased through the airline is strictly forbidden. Violating these policies can result in being removed from the flight upon arrival, so it is important to drink moderately and adhere to crew instructions.
International Considerations
Passengers flying to or from international destinations must navigate the varying laws of different countries. The legal drinking age, restrictions on alcohol content, and prohibited types of liquor vary widely across the globe. Spirit Airlines adheres to the laws of the destination country, so a drink that is legal in one nation might be confiscated in another. Always research the specific regulations of your arrival country before packing that bottle.
