Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy: What You Need to Know
Spirit Airlines has some of the lowest fares around. But those slashed ticket rates come with a catch and almost everything beyond your seat has extra charges including baggage. Knowing how Spirit’s baggage system functions can save you both money and stress before you board.
Let us break down the Spirit Airlines baggage policy along with allowance and cost so you can travel smarter and avoid surprises at the airport. You can contact Spirit Airlines at 1-855-728-3555 or FlyoGarage at +1-877-658-1183 to know more.
What Is Spirit Airlines’ Baggage Policy?
Spirit Airlines keeps fares minimal by charging separately for additional services and baggage. Spirit doesn’t include a free carry-on or checked bag in its standard ticket rate. You are allowed to carry one free personal item and it must fit under the seat in front of you. Everything else requires an additional fee.
Spirit’s personal item size limit is 18 x 14 x 8 inches including handles and wheels. This usually fits a small backpack or purse or laptop bag.
What Is Spirit Airlines’ Baggage Allowance?
The Spirit baggage allowance depends on what you’re willing to pay for. There are three main types of luggage:
Personal Item (Free)
-
Size limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
-
Examples: small backpack, handbag, briefcase
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Size limit: 22 x 18 x 10 inches
Goes in the overhead bin
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You can only bring one and you must pay for it in advance for the best rate
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Size limit: 62 linear inches combining length, width and height
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Up to five checked bags allowed per person with increasing charges for each additional one
Anything that exceeds size or weight limits comes with oversize or overweight charges which can be steep. Spirit does not allow bags over 100 pounds or 80 linear inches in total size. Strollers and car seats are free to check for families traveling with children.
How Much Are Spirit Baggage Fees?
Spirit’s baggage fees aren’t fixed. They change based on when and how you pay, your route and whether you’re a member of the airline’s Saver$ Club.
Here’s an overview of average one-way fees for bags when flying Spirit:
Carry-On Bag
|
When You Pay |
Typical Price Range |
|
During booking |
$35–$45 |
|
Before online check-in |
$45–$55 |
|
At the airport counter
|
Around $65
|
|
At the gate
|
Up to $99
|
Checked Bags
|
Bag Number |
During Booking |
Before Check-In
|
Airport Counter
|
|
1st Bag
|
$30–$40
|
$40–$50
|
$65
|
|
2nd Bag
|
$45–$55
|
$55–$65
|
$75
|
|
3rd–5th Bags
|
$85–$100+
|
$95–$100+
|
$100+
|
These are approximate amounts and Spirit adjusts them by route and season. Use the baggage calculator on Spirit’s website before booking to know the exact baggage cost.
How Much Are Spirit Excess Baggage Fees?
If your checked bag goes over the limits, here’s what you’ll pay as the Spirit excess baggage charges:
-
41–50 lbs (19–23 kg): +$79
-
51–70 lbs (23–32 kg): +$125
-
71–100 lbs (32–45 kg): +$150
-
Special items over 80 linear inches: +$150
If your bag exceeds both weight and size limits, both fees apply.
How to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees on Spirit?
It is better to plan ahead and pay early since Spirit’s baggage fees can quickly add up. Below are some smart tips to cut costs:
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Pay for bags during booking. Fees go up the closer you get to your flight.
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Join the Spirit Saver$ Club. Members often save $10–$20 per bag compared to non-members.
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Pack light. If you can fit everything into a personal item, you’ll travel for free.
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Weigh and measure your bags. Avoid overweight and oversize penalties by checking before you leave home.
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Bundle bags with your booking. Spirit sometimes offers discounted add-ons if you purchase seats and bags together online.
Do Military Members Get Free Bags?
Yes. Active duty US military members are eligible for two free checked bags which include one free carry-on and a personal item even when flying on a basic fare.
You must show a valid military ID at the airport to qualify. The benefit does not automatically extend to family members or dependents though.
Conclusion
The Spirit Airlines baggage policy is uncomplicated once you know the basics. A free personal item is included but carry-ons and checked bags cost extra and those costs can increase quickly if you don’t plan ahead.
Take a few minutes to measure your bags, use Spirit’s online calculator and prepay for what you need if you are booking a Spirit flight. It is the easiest method to travel affordably and without stress. Reach out to Spirit Airlines at 1-855-728-3555 or FlyoGarage at +1-877-658-1183 for any queries.