Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees & Policies

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Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees & Policies

Spirit Airlines is known for its budget-friendly fares, but its baggage fees can catch travelers off guard. Unlike many major airlines that allow a free carry-on, Spirit charges for most luggage beyond a small personal item. Below, we’ll break down Spirit Airlines' baggage fees, size restrictions, and policies to help you pack smartly and save money.

Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees

Passengers with Free Spirit Gold status receive one free checked bag. However, for most travelers, Spirit charges a fee for both carry-on and checked baggage. These fees vary based on when and how you pay, with online pre-payment offering the best deals.

Spirit Airlines Baggage Fee Breakdown

Luggage Type Online Check-in Price Price at Airport
Carry-on Bag $41 $55
1st Checked Bag $36 $50
2nd Checked Bag $46 $60
3rd Checked Bag $91 $100

Spirit has strict weight limits for checked baggage. Standard checked bags must weigh 40 lbs or less. If your bag exceeds this limit, extra fees apply:

  • 41-50 lbs: Additional $79
  • 51-100 lbs: Additional $99

Spirit also charges for oversized luggage:

  • 63-80 linear inches: + $100
  • 80+ linear inches: + $150

Ways to Save on Spirit Baggage Fees

Spirit offers “Boost It” and “Bundle It” packages, which help lower overall baggage costs—especially useful if you’re checking multiple overweight or oversized bags.

Spirit Airlines Checked Bag Policy

Spirit’s baggage fees help keep ticket prices low. Here’s what you need to know about checked baggage:

  • Weight Limit: 40 lbs (before overweight fees apply)
  • Size Limit: 63 linear inches (L + W + H, including handles and wheels)
  • Active-duty military personnel receive two free checked bags, a free carry-on, and a personal item at no charge.

Spirit Airlines Carry-on Policy

Unlike full-service airlines, Spirit charges for carry-on luggage. If your carry-on exceeds Spirit’s size limits, you’ll need to check it at the gate for an additional fee.

Spirit Airlines Carry-on Bag Size & Weight Restrictions

  • Maximum Carry-on Dimensions: 22 x 18 x 10 inches (including handles & wheels)
  • Weight Limit: 40 lbs (carry-ons exceeding this weight must be checked at the gate)

Personal Items: What You Can Bring for Free

Spirit allows one free personal item, such as a purse, small backpack, or laptop bag, which must fit under the seat.

  • Personal Item Size Limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (including handles and wheels)
  • No weight limit specified, but large/heavy items may be checked at the gate.

Additional Free Items Allowed on Spirit Flights

Passengers may also bring:

  • Umbrellas, cameras, infant diaper bags
  • Medically necessary devices (CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, canes, crutches, etc.)
  • Duty-free shopping bags
  • Books and food
  • Neck and head pillows (only if they fit inside your personal item bag)

Spirit Airlines’ Infant & Assistive Device Policies

Flying with Infants

  • Infants under two years old can travel on a parent’s lap or in a purchased seat with an FAA-approved car seat.
  • Free diaper bag allowed in addition to carry-on/personal item.
  • Free gate-check for car seats and strollers.

Medical Assistive Devices

  • Exempt from baggage fees
  • Size Limit for In-Cabin Storage: 39 x 26 x 11 inches
  • Larger devices (wheelchairs, etc.) will be checked for free

Service Animals on Spirit Airlines

Spirit allows trained service dogs to fly free but requires DOT paperwork.

  • Up to two service dogs per passenger
  • No emotional support animals allowed (must be transported under Spirit’s pet policy)
  • Dogs in vests or with ID cards still require documentation

Best Carry-On Luggage Options for Spirit Airlines

Since Spirit has stricter carry-on size limits than most airlines, choosing the right-sized luggage is crucial. Below are five top picks from UUH Luggage Set, designed to fit Spirit’s dimensions while offering functionality and durability.

Choosing a Carry-On Bag for Spirit

For travelers needing more luggage space, UUH Luggage Set offers multiple high-quality options:

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UUH Small, Medium Check-in Hard Shell 4 Piece Luggage Set with 3 Storage Bags

$94.99 $119.99
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UUH 5 Piece Luggage Set (8",14",20",24",28") Bags with 3 Storage and Makeup Bag

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Best Rated Carry On Suitcases | UUH

UUH Inexpensive Luggage Sets 4 piece (20inch,24inch,28inch) Makeup Suitcase Hardside

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Final Thoughts on Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy

Spirit Airlines' baggage policy is strict, but following the rules can help you avoid surprise fees. The key is to pack light, measure your bags carefully, and pay for luggage online to get the best rates.

If you need the perfect carry-on for Spirit Airlines, check out the UUH Luggage Set collection for stylish, durable, and Spirit-compliant travel bags.

Further Reading and Resources

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