When flying with Spirit Airlines, one of the most budget-friendly airlines in the United States, it is crucial to understand what to expect from their services, including their terminal experience. Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of the busiest airports in the country, and Spirit Airlines operates out of Concourse C at this massive hub. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the Spirit Airlines DEN Terminal, covering everything from check-in procedures to amenities, security lines, gate facilities, and overall travel efficiency. 

Check-In Process and Baggage Drop

 Spirit Airlines offers multiple check-in options, including online check-in, mobile check-in, kiosk check-in, and traditional counter check-in. For a seamless experience, it is highly recommended that travelers check in online or via the Spirit mobile app before arriving at the airport. This not only saves time but also helps avoid the long lines often associated with budget airlines.

Upon arriving at Denver International Airport, passengers can locate Spirit Airlines’ check-in counters on Level 6 of the Jeppesen Terminal, West Side. The area is well-marked with clear signage directing travelers to their designated airline check-in zone. While the self-service kiosks are available for printing boarding passes and baggage tags, those needing assistance or dropping off checked luggage must proceed to the counter. Spirit Airlines has a reputation for charging fees for everything from carry-on bags to seat selections, so travelers should be aware of their baggage policies before arrival to avoid unexpected costs.

Security and TSA Checkpoint

Security screening at Denver International Airport is generally well-organized, but wait times can vary depending on the time of day and season of travel. The TSA checkpoints leading to Concourse C are efficient but can be crowded during peak travel hours. Spirit Airlines passengers should aim to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights to ensure they have enough time to get through security.

The TSA PreCheck lane is available for eligible travelers, which significantly reduces waiting times. For those without TSA PreCheck, the standard security line moves at a reasonable pace, but it’s always wise to check Denver International Airport’s real-time security wait times via their official website or app before arriving.

Concourse C and Gate Area

Once through security, Spirit Airlines passengers will need to take the underground train to Concourse C, where their departure gates are located. The train system at DEN is efficient and runs frequently, minimizing wait times.

Upon arrival at Concourse C, passengers will find a variety of seating options and essential amenities. Spirit Airlines flights typically depart from gates in the C30-C49 range. The terminal area is spacious, and while Spirit’s gate areas are usually busy, they provide adequate seating for waiting passengers. However, as with many budget airlines, power outlets may be limited, so bringing a fully charged device or a portable charger is a good idea.

Food and Beverage Options

For travelers looking for a quick bite before their flight, Concourse C at DEN offers a decent selection of dining options. Some of the most popular eateries include:

Breckenridge Brewery – A great spot for a pre-flight craft beer and bar food.

Einstein Bros. Bagels – Ideal for coffee and a quick breakfast sandwich.

McDonald’s – A convenient choice for fast food lovers.

Cantina Grill – Serves tasty Mexican food for those craving something more flavorful.

Root Down – Located in Concourse C, this restaurant offers a more gourmet dining experience with locally sourced ingredients.

Passengers should note that food and drink prices at the airport tend to be higher than outside, so bringing snacks or an empty reusable water bottle to fill up after security is a cost-effective strategy.

Facilities and Amenities

Denver International Airport’s Concourse C offers several useful amenities to enhance the passenger experience:

Free Wi-Fi: DEN provides complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, making it easy for passengers to browse the internet, check flight updates, or stream entertainment while waiting.

Charging Stations: Though not abundant, there are charging stations available at various seating areas. For those relying on their devices, securing a charging spot early is recommended.

Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities are available throughout the concourse.

Pet Relief Areas: For travelers flying with pets, there are designated relief areas within the terminal.

Boarding Process and Customer Service

Spirit Airlines is known for its unique “Bare Fare” model, which means passengers pay for only the base fare, with additional charges for seat selection, carry-on bags, and other services. While this allows for incredibly low ticket prices, it also means that the boarding process can sometimes be hectic, as many passengers may have opted for the most budget-friendly, unassigned seating options.

Boarding typically begins 30-40 minutes before departure, and Spirit uses a zone-based boarding process. It is advisable to be at the gate well in advance, as Spirit is known for strict cut-off times. If a passenger is not at the gate at the designated time, they risk being denied boarding. The airline’s staff at DEN are generally efficient, though customer service reviews are mixed, with some passengers praising their friendliness while others note a lack of flexibility with policies.

Flight Experience and Onboard Comfort

While this review focuses primarily on the DEN terminal experience, it’s worth mentioning what to expect once onboard a Spirit Airlines flight. Spirit operates a fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft, with a no-frills approach to air travel. Seats are slimline and do not recline, with minimal padding. Big Front Seats are available for an extra fee, offering significantly more legroom and comfort.

Passengers should be prepared to pay for all extras, including drinks and snacks. Bringing your own food and a refillable water bottle can help keep costs down. For those flying on a budget and aware of Spirit’s service model, the experience can be quite satisfactory.

Final Thoughts: Is Spirit Airlines at DEN Worth It?

For budget-conscious travelers, Spirit Airlines at Denver International Airport (DEN) Terminal provides an affordable option to fly to numerous destinations across the U.S. and beyond. While the low-cost fares are a major selling point, it’s important to be aware of additional fees and plan accordingly to avoid surprises.

Pros of flying Spirit Airlines at DEN:

 Affordable ticket prices

 Efficient train system to Concourse C

 Decent selection of food and beverage options

 Free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal

 Self-service kiosks to expedite check-in

Cons:

Additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and onboard services

 Limited charging stations in the waiting areas

 Basic seating with minimal comfort

 Occasionally long lines at check-in and security

Overall, the Spirit Airlines experience at DEN Terminal is what you make of it. Being well-prepared, arriving early, and understanding the airline’s policies can ensure a smooth journey. While the airline may not offer luxury, it gets the job done at an unbeatable price, making it a practical choice for budget travelers departing from Denver International Airport.