You did it. You finally decided to take the leap. Even after the horror stories, you couldn't resist the super-low prices and booked your flight on Spirit Airlines. Many people who book these flights later realize they end up spending even more on these flights than they would on a major airline, because of all the hidden fees, but have no fear! With a few simple tricks, you'll be able to dodge the extra fees and travel like a pro for dirt cheap!

1. Be flexible.

It's not always easy to fly out on a Tuesday when you have a set job or class schedule, but if you can make it work for the promotion dates, you're going to land yourself a sweet deal. (Hint: go here for the latest offers.)

2. Bring a water bottle.

This is key to keeping your sanity on the flight. Most budget airlines don't provide complimentary drinks on your trip. And by drinks, I don't mean the mimosas they serve first class on major airlines. I mean the pop, lemonade and water they give to us coach fellows. Yes, you read that right. They won't even give you a glass of water without charging you an overpriced fee. However, you are allowed to bring an empty water bottle through airport security. Refill it right before your flight and you're good to go! If you really need some caffeine, grab some at the airport, as even the airport drinks will likely be a better deal than on the flight.

3. Stash snacks.

Those mini peanuts and cookies they give you on most airlines are cool, but are they really worth an extra $200? Probably not. Swing by Cub on the way to the airport and you'll have snacks to last the whole flight at a fraction of the cost. Who needs airline pretzels when you have a whole pack of Double Stuf Oreos to yourself?

4. Pack light.

Budget airlines will get you to your destination, but not necessarily with all your stuff. Spirit lets you bring one "personal item" with you, which translates to a purse or laptop case on most airlines. The good news is, as long as your bag fits the dimensions, you can bring whatever you want. Not to mention, if you pack light, you'll have a whole lot less weight to be carrying around.

5. Duffel bags are key.

Backpacks are also a good option, but make sure it's something flexible. If they stop you in line, you better be able to smash that sucker in the baggage check crate. If it's too big, they'll make you check it. Not only will you not have access to your stuff and have to wait at baggage claim, but they'll charge you $100. Yes. One. Hundred. Dollars. Even if your ticket was only $80.

6. Print your tickets at home.

You can also print them at a self-serve airport kiosk, but whatever you do, do not go to the desk and have them print it for you. Why? You guessed it: There's a fee for that too. Some airports will even charge for a kiosk print, so print before you leave to avoid rolling the dice.

7. If you're purchasing bags, buy early.

If you decide you can't fit all your travel necessities into your "personal item," buy your bags when you're buying your ticket. This is when bags will be cheapest. Surprisingly, it costs less to check a bag than have a carry-on. If you just need a few extra things, chat with your travel buddies and condense everything into a bag or two. That way you can split the cost of the bags, instead of each purchasing your own.

8. Bring your own entertainment.

Did you really think there would be an in-flight movie when they won't even give you water? Fat chance. If you're tired, you could probably get away with sleeping through a short flight, but if you're a little more amped up about your vacation, bring a book or download a movie onto your laptop before leaving home.

9. Make new friends.

You can sit by your friends... but it's going to cost you up to $50 for just a regular seat. If you're not willing to dish out the extra cash, just know you'll likely be sitting by strangers. Lean over and say hi. You never know who you'll meet while traveling.

10. Stretch your legs.

You know those super fancy first-class seats they have in some planes that literally turn into beds? Yeah, think of the complete opposite of that. It's going to be tight and your leg room will be next to none. If you're prone to getting claustrophobic, empty your wallet and request an aisle seat. Regardless of where you're sitting, walk around for a few minutes before boarding. Your legs will thank you.

11. Charge up your gadgets.

Nothing is more frustrating than having your phone or laptop die mid-flight when you're trying to use it. Unlike most airlines, there's not an outlet or USB port on budget planes, so make sure to juice up before hopping on, even if it means looking like that weird guy laying on the floor in the corner of the airport.

12. Don't change your plans.

Something come up? That's too bad. Like most airlines, flights are non-refundable, but not only will they take that money, they'll also charge you $90-$100 for a cancellation or modification. Want to fly out earlier? You can wait standby for an earlier flight... for $25. Stay clear of changing your plans, unless of course they ask if anyone wants to go out on a later flight because it's overbooked, in which case, jump on that, because they'll give you a free roundtrip flight for a later date.

13. Go with the flow.

Things might not go flawlessly and you might get delayed once, twice or seven times, but it's all part of the experience, right?