What is the definitive guide to Hilary Erickson's tips for flying cheap on Allegiant Airlines?

Hi, I’m Hilary Erickson from The Pregnancy Nurse. I actually wrote about this on Pulling Curls, so here’s my “definitive” cheat sheet for flying cheap on Allegiant:

• Buy at the airport: There’s an online “convenience fee.” Airport counter tickets can be several dollars cheaper per person, per leg (worth it for families if you can handle the limited hours and line).
• Use only the free personal item: One personal item is free and must fit under the seat. I pack one checked bag for our group, then fully stuff kids’ backpacks with clothes to avoid extra carry-on fees.
• Skip paying for seats: You don’t have to buy seat assignments, even with kids. Skip the seat-selection upsell online; check in early at the airport and let them seat you. We’ve always ended up close together.
• Bring your own food: Snacks and meals cost extra. I bring food from home; if I buy anything, it’s usually just water.
• Say no to all extras: Travel insurance, hotels, rental cars, priority this-or-that—there’s always a small “no thanks” link. Click it every time if you’re just trying to stay cheap.
• Stalk the website for patterns: I’ve seen some of the best prices show up Monday night into Tuesday, and then rise a couple of months before travel. Keep checking and learn your route’s rhythm.
• Be flexible and buy late for deals: Allegiant sometimes drops amazing last‑minute fares. If your dates and destination are flexible, you can score very cheap round trips booked just days ahead.

Following those, I flew myself and three kids to Utah for under about $400–$450 including bags, which is hard to beat.

Is there a specific Allegiant route or family size you’re trying to price out so I can help you strategize more exactly?