Traveling with Spirit Airlines often means finding the best deals on airfare. But before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to understand their baggage policies and, most importantly, how much is a Spirit checked bag. This guide will break down everything you need to know about Spirit Airlines’ checked bag fees, size restrictions, and ways to potentially save money.
Spirit Airlines allows all passengers to bring one free personal item. This item must fit entirely in the smaller sizer bin (like a purse or small backpack) with maximum dimensions of 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm), including handles and wheels. Items like umbrellas, cameras, infant diaper bags, assistive devices, outer garments, reading material, and food for the flight are also permitted at no extra charge. Neck and head pillows can be carried on the aircraft as long as they fit completely in your personal item bag.
Spirit Airlines Carry-On Bag Policy and Fees
Spirit Airlines’ “Go Big, Go Comfy, and Go Savvy” travel options include a carry-on bag (space permitting) that meets the dimensions listed below, in addition to a personal item.
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The maximum dimensions for a Spirit Airlines carry-on bag are 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 46 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels. If your carry-on is too large to be stowed safely, Spirit Airlines may require it to travel as a checked bag. Note that the “Go” travel option does not include a carry-on bag and cannot be purchased separately. However, you can upgrade to “Go Comfy” or “Go Big” to include a carry-on bag for your trip.
Spirit Airlines Checked Bag Policy and Fees
The “Go Big” travel option includes one checked bag. For all other travel options, you can add checked bags separately. Make sure your bag meets Spirit Airlines’ checked bag size and weight restrictions:
- Maximum of 62 linear inches (length + width + height; 158 cm) including handles and wheels.
- Maximum of 50 pounds (22.6 kg) in weight.
Any bag exceeding these limits is considered oversized or overweight and will incur additional charges. Bags weighing more than 100 pounds (45 kg) or measuring more than 80 linear inches (203 cm) are not accepted. The price of a Spirit checked bag will vary depending on several factors, including when you purchase the bag and your destination.
Factors Affecting Spirit Checked Bag Fees:
- Time of Purchase: Purchasing your checked bag online, well in advance of your flight, is typically the cheapest option. Fees increase as you get closer to the departure date and are highest at the airport.
- Route: International routes may have different baggage fees than domestic routes.
- Membership: Spirit Saver$ Club members often receive discounted baggage fees.
Finding the Most Up-to-Date Fees:
To determine the most accurate and up-to-date fee for your specific flight, visit the Spirit Airlines Optional Services page. This page outlines the current bag prices for carry-ons, checked bags, and sporting equipment.
International Flight Restrictions
Guests traveling to or from international airports may encounter additional size and weight restrictions. For example, flights to South America (Lima, Peru; Colombia; Ecuador) during peak seasons (December 1st – January 10th) have stricter limits on the number of checked bags allowed per person. Always check the specific restrictions for your international destination to avoid surprises at the airport.
Bag Restrictions by Region:
| REGION | DATES | RESTRICTIONS |
|---|---|---|
| South America Lima, Peru (LIM) |
ALL YEAR (Additional Restrictions Apply – December 1st through January 10th) |
– One (1) paid checked item will be accepted per guest. – Additional checked items may be purchased based on inventory. – Overweight items may not exceed the maximum overweight limit of 100lbs (45kg) and are subject to overweight baggage charges beginning at 51lbs (23 kg). – Oversized items may not exceed 80 linear inches (203cm) in overall dimensions and are subject to oversized baggage charges beginning at 63 linear inches (158 cm). – Certain items (e.g. Sporting Equipment) may exceed 80 linear inches in overall dimensions; however, the item may not weigh more than 100lbs (45kg). This item counts towards the maximum of one (1) checked item allowed per person. Separate charges may apply. – From December 1st through January 10th, items that exceed 80 linear inches will not be accepted. |
| South America Colombia (AXM, BAQ, BGA, CLO, CTG, MDE) Ecuador (GYE) |
ALL YEAR (Additional Restrictions Apply December 1st – January 10th) |
– One (1) paid checked item will be accepted per person. – Additional checked items may be purchased on a first-come-first-serve basis. |
| All International Destinations | December 1st – January 10th | – One (1) paid checked item will be accepted per person. – Additional checked items may be purchased on a first-come-first-serve basis. – Overweight items are subject to overweight baggage charges beginning at 51 pounds (23 kg). – Oversized items may not exceed 80 linear inches (203cm) in overall dimensions and are subject to oversized baggage charges beginning at 63 linear inches (158 cm). |
Tips for Saving on Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees
- Pack Light: Consider if you can manage with just a personal item to avoid any baggage fees altogether.
- Purchase Bags Online in Advance: As mentioned earlier, buying your checked bag online during booking or before your flight is significantly cheaper than at the airport.
- Join the Spirit Saver$ Club: If you fly Spirit frequently, the membership can save you money on baggage fees and other perks.
- Consider a Travel Option with Included Bags: The “Go Big” option includes a checked bag, which may be cost-effective if you know you’ll need to check a bag.
Adding or Changing Bags
Need to add a checked bag to your reservation? You can find more information on how to add a checked bag to your reservation on the Spirit Airlines website.
Understanding the costs associated with baggage is essential for a smooth and budget-friendly travel experience with Spirit Airlines. By planning ahead and utilizing these tips, you can minimize your baggage fees and enjoy your trip.
