Is Flying Spirit Airlines A Better Deal Than Others?

Last week I did something I swore I wouldn't do again, fly Spirit Airlines.  I used them 2 years ago for a trip and did not enjoy one second of the experience.  Tiny, cramped, and uncomfortable seats, extra charges for everything, I was not impressed.  I was lured in by the lower initial price to book a trip using them a second time however.  I convinced myself that not having redeye times in and out of Vegas like last time would be a better experience.

The trip was booked and I decided to pay extra for what they call their "Big Front Seat". Now, this is not first class, it's just what it's called.  No extra frills other than the seat size being larger and having more leg room.  What they don't tell you is the seats don't recline.  So while roomier, it still is not that comfortable after 2 hours in it.

I did the math once I returned home from the trip, smart of me to do after and not before, I know.  Between the paying for your uncomfortable seats after you book the trip, paying for a checked bag and even for a carry-on, and $3 for a Ginger Ale.  I can't believe Spirit doesn't charge for toilet paper or pass along a collection plate to pay the pilot.  I could have just flown Delta like I usually do and been much happier for a similar price.

Is Spirit all bad though?  I don't think that it is, if I was skinnier I'm sure the seating would be more pleasant.  If I was a 18 year old hippy kid who wanted a cheap flight with just my backpack heading to LA, it would probably be great.  Spirit I'm sure is a good choice for certain people, I just don't know that I am in that category.  I won't say I will never fly them again, but if I did, it would be me on a solo trip needing to get somewhere for the lowest cost possible with the knowledge it would be uncomfortable.  Have you flown Spirit?  Did you have a good experience?