Allegiant Air has gained a reputation for budget-friendly fares, but many wonder if that comes at the cost of comfort—especially when seeking a first-class experience. Let me share what I’ve learned by observing Allegiant’s operations, contrasting its no-frills model with the perks you might find at other carriers.
1. Allegiant Doesn’t Offer Traditional First Class
From my firsthand perspective, Allegiant has never prioritized a multi-cabin setup with lavish seating and privacy curtains. Instead, the airline sticks to a single-cabin format, funneling its resources into maintaining low base fares. According to industry data from 2024, around 60% of domestic travelers choose budget airlines at least once a year—illustrating that many fliers are willing to forego certain upscale perks for cheaper airfare.
I’ve observed on numerous short-haul flights that this approach works best for travelers who prefer to pay only for what they use. There are no lie-flat seats or gourmet meals, but what you do get is a straightforward flying experience without being forced into services you may not need. I’ve personally seen families save hundreds of dollars on a single trip by opting for Allegiant’s bare-bones model rather than paying extra for “premium” amenities on legacy carriers.
Despite not having a traditional first-class seat, Allegiant does offer Legroom+ seats for those of us who want a little more breathing room. Typically found in exit rows or the front of the cabin, these seats come with roughly 34 inches of seat pitch—about 4 inches more than standard rows. A recent study suggests that an extra few inches of legroom can ease passenger discomfort on flights lasting longer than two hours.
In my own travels with Allegiant, Legroom+ seats have made a noticeable difference, especially on full flights or when I need space for work spread out across my tray table. However, I’ve also had to remind myself that Legroom+ does not include complimentary snacks or beverages. If you’re seeking a quiet space to indulge in a hot meal, you still need to bring or buy your own refreshments. The cost for these upgraded seats tends to be relatively modest—usually between $20 and $50, depending on the route—making it a decent compromise for more legroom without breaking the bank.
3. Bundled Packages May Offer Savings and Flexibility
Beyond piecemeal add-ons, Allegiant offers bundled packages such as Standard, Premium, or VIP. In my experience, these bundles can cut down on overall fees if you know you’ll be adding several extras—like seat selection, checked baggage, or Trip Flex—anyway. According to Allegiant’s own figures reported in early 2025, nearly 40% of travelers opt for stacking add-ons or bundles to manage costs more efficiently.
I’ve found that Trip Flex, included in certain packages, allows for more straightforward changes to itineraries, especially if your travel plans are fluid. On occasion, I’ve recommended this to friends who juggle tight schedules or unpredictable obligations. Though these packages don’t translate into the red-carpet feel of first class, they do allow you to customize your trip, ensuring you only pay for the services you value.
4. Minimal Frills but Some Comfort
Allegiant’s low-cost structure means everything down to inflight beverages is optional. While no inflight entertainment or advanced reclining features might frustrate some passengers, I’ve seen many families appreciate the airline’s transparent cost breakdown. You book a base fare and then tack on extras, from baggage to priority boarding, if you want them. This can work well if you’re comfortable bringing your own snacks and planning your entertainment.
As of late 2024, Allegiant has been expanding its routes across North America, aiming to serve more mid-sized cities. I’ve noticed that many travelers choose Allegiant for short hops—where the absence of seat-back screens or complimentary meals doesn’t feel like a major sacrifice. Of course, it’s crucial to factor in any added fees if you do want more amenities, since that can quickly bring your total fare closer to what a legacy carrier might charge.
5. Is Allegiant Right For You?
If you’re looking for an ultra-affordable ticket and are willing to pay only for the extras you need, Allegiant can be a smart choice. From my personal viewpoint, it’s best suited for non-business travelers, families, or college students who prioritize price over luxury. I’ve seen first-hand how travelers appreciate the ability to plan their budget methodically with minimal surprises—though you do have to be vigilant about fees.
For those still on the fence, it’s helpful to weigh how much you value additional perks like lounge access, complimentary beverages, and in-flight meals. Since Allegiant provides none of these in its basic fare, it likely isn’t the airline for someone hoping to replicate a polished first-class experience. However, if your main goal is to reach your destination without burning a hole in your wallet, Allegiant’s model fits that need.
Final Thoughts
In my analysis, Allegiant has created a niche by stripping the flying experience down to its essentials. You’re not paying for what you don’t use, and that can be very appealing in an era where travelers are more cost-conscious than ever. The airline’s straightforward approach—combined with its expanding route map—makes it a viable option for those who want to save on flights and then spend more at their destinations.
Of course, no single airline fits every traveler’s needs, and Allegiant is no exception. If you consider the extra fees, limited amenities, and older aircraft fleet acceptable trade-offs, then Allegiant might deliver exactly what you’re looking for: simplicity and affordability. Just remember to add up all the potential costs of seat selection, baggage, or priority boarding before finalizing that booking.
Brad Lightall’s Take
From my perspective, Allegiant is like a blank canvas. You start with a low fare and add what you want, much like configuring a new device. If you’re focused on budget and can handle a flight with minimal extras, this airline checks the box. On the flip side, if pampering and premium perks are on your wishlist, you may find yourself better served at a legacy carrier.
I personally enjoy customizing my flight experience, so Allegiant’s model resonates with me. Still, I can’t help but wish they offered a bit more in the way of seat comfort and inflight perks. That said, the airline’s strategy of “pay for what you need” aligns well with travelers seeking both flexibility and affordability.
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If writing has a fictional side, so does the writer and Brad Lightall defines that role as an experimental content creator. Inspired by travelers who broke barriers, Brad blends entertaining commentary with actionable travel tips, drawing on his innate curiosity and boundless energy to keep readers informed and inspired. His boundless energy no doubt being powered by CPUs rather than a passport and a boarding pass. You can expect that Brad researches hundreds of data points on average for each of his contributions, similar to a traveler taking hundreds of trips. Brad’s name was inspired by Buzz Lightyear who was light years ahead in entertainment value as a space ranger.
