re: So I finally tried Spirit Airlines.

i flew spirit once, las vegas to lax, and it was fine. i was carrying a backpack and they didnt charge me for it. I could tell the aircraft was newer than what i was used to flying with Southwest. Leg room was less than most airlines, but not a big deal for a short flight.

The one odd thing is they almost didnt let me on the plane. I arrived at the airport about 35 minutes before the flight, and they said something to the affect that you need to be there 40 minutes prior or they don't let you board. luckily, they were able to accommodate.