Allegiant Air is a popular choice for travelers looking for low-cost, nonstop flights to various vacation destinations across the United States. Because the airline operates differently than major legacy carriers, understanding their booking and tracking processes can save you both time and money. Whether you are planning a new trip or need to check the status of an upcoming flight, this guide provides straightforward steps to help you navigate your travel needs efficiently.
How to Book a Flight with Allegiant Air
Booking a flight is the first step in your travel journey. Allegiant primarily sells tickets through its official website and mobile app to keep costs low for consumers. By following a few simple steps, you can secure your seat and customize your travel experience.
Searching for Your Flight
To begin, visit the official Allegiant Air website. On the homepage, you will find a search tool where you can enter your departure city and your destination. Allegiant often flies out of smaller regional airports, so double-check which nearby airports offer service to your desired location.
Select whether you want a round-trip or one-way flight, and then choose your travel dates. If your schedule is flexible, you can browse the fare calendar to find the cheapest days to fly. Once you enter your information, click the search button to view available flights and prices.
Selecting Your Fare Bundle
Allegiant offers several “bundles” that group together common services like baggage and seat selection. Choosing a bundle at the time of booking is usually much cheaper than adding these services individually later. Common options include:
- Basic: This is the lowest fare and only includes one personal item.
- Allegiant Bonus: Usually includes a carry-on bag and seat selection.
- Allegiant Total: Typically includes a carry-on, a checked bag, seat selection, and priority boarding.
Review each option carefully to see which fits your budget and travel needs. If you prefer to travel light, the basic fare is the most economical choice.
Checking Your Flight Status
Staying informed about your flight’s timing is crucial for a stress-free travel day. Flight schedules can change due to weather, air traffic control, or maintenance. Checking your status before you head to the airport can prevent unnecessary waiting.
Using the Online Flight Tracker
The easiest way to check a status is through the “Flight Status” tab on the airline’s website. You do not need to log in to your account to use this feature. You can search for a flight in two ways:
- By Flight Number: Enter the specific flight number found on your confirmation email or boarding pass.
- By Route: Enter your departure and arrival cities along with the date of travel.
The tracker will provide real-time updates on whether the flight is on time, delayed, or canceled. It also displays the estimated departure and arrival times.
Downloading the Mobile App
For the most convenient experience, download the Allegiant mobile app on your smartphone. The app allows you to opt-in for push notifications. This means you will receive an immediate alert on your phone if there are any changes to your flight’s schedule or gate assignment.
Managing Your Existing Reservation
If you have already booked a flight and need to make changes, you can do so through the “Manage Travel” section of the website. This is where you go to update your personal information or add services you may have missed during the initial booking.
Adding Bags and Seats
Allegiant charges for carry-on and checked luggage. If you realize after booking that you need more space, it is highly recommended to add your bags online before you arrive at the airport. Bag fees are significantly higher when paid at the ticket counter.
You can also use this section to select a specific seat. If you do not choose a seat, one will be assigned to you at random during check-in. If you are traveling with a group and want to ensure you sit together, paying for seat selection in advance is the best strategy.
Using Trip Flex
If you purchased “Trip Flex” during your initial booking, you have more flexibility to change or cancel your flight without paying the standard change fees. To use this feature, go to your reservation online and follow the prompts to modify your itinerary. Note that even with Trip Flex, you must make changes at least one hour before departure.
The Check-In Process
Checking in for your flight confirms your intent to fly and allows you to receive your boarding pass. Allegiant opens online check-in 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.
Online and Mobile Check-In
Checking in via the website or mobile app is the fastest method. During this process, you will confirm your flight details and answer standard security questions. Once finished, you can download a digital boarding pass to your phone or print a paper copy at home.
Using a digital boarding pass is highly recommended. Allegiant charges a convenience fee for passengers who require a printed boarding pass from an agent at the airport ticket counter. Checking in online helps you avoid this extra cost.
Airport Arrival Times
Even if you have checked in online, you should arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight. This gives you enough time to drop off checked luggage and pass through security. Allegiant ticket counters typically close 45 minutes before departure, and boarding usually begins 30 to 45 minutes before takeoff.
Important Baggage Policies to Remember
Because Allegiant is an ultra-low-cost carrier, their baggage policies are strict. Understanding these rules will help you avoid unexpected fees at the gate.
- Personal Items: Every passenger is allowed one small personal item (like a purse or backpack) for free. It must fit completely under the seat in front of you.
- Carry-on Bags: These must fit in the overhead bin and require a fee. If your personal item is too large, it will be classified as a carry-on.
- Checked Bags: These are stored in the cargo hold. Each bag has a weight limit (typically 40 pounds). Exceeding this weight will result in additional overage charges.
Always measure your bags at home to ensure they meet the size requirements listed on the airline’s website. This simple step prevents the stress of having to pay premium prices at the boarding gate.
Conclusion
Navigating travel with Allegiant Air is simple once you know the steps for booking, tracking, and managing your flight. By using their digital tools and planning for baggage needs in advance, you can enjoy the benefits of low-cost travel without any surprises. Always remember to check your flight status before leaving for the airport and use the mobile app for the smoothest experience. For more helpful travel tips and guides on navigating modern services, explore our other articles to stay informed and prepared for your next journey.