Spirit Airlines is known for its ultra-low-cost approach to air travel, keeping fares affordable by closely managing ancillary costs like baggage fees. As such, Spirit has strict policies around the maximum size allowed for checked bags which are included within standard ticket prices.
Most other major airlines permit larger checked bags, so understanding Spirit’s size limits is important for budgeting travel expenses. This is especially true if planning to check oversized luggage which would incur additional fees. This article explores Spirit Airlines policies regarding the maximum dimensions permitted for standard checked bags, as well as any secondary pieces of luggage.
It also outlines the specifications and charges associated with larger oversized bags or specialty items like sports gear that exceed the common limits. Reviewing these checked baggage size rules allows travelers to avoid surprises and travel more lightly knowing what fits within basic fare inclusions.
Spirit Airlines Carry-On Baggage Allowance
Spirit Airlines allows one small personal item up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches as carry-on luggage at no cost. Passengers can pay a fee to bring one additional, larger carry-on bag measuring up to 22 x 18 x 10 inches. The fee for an extra bag varies based on when purchased; it is $65 if added during initial booking but increases to $75 for check-in and $89 at the airport.
Club members see slightly lower rates. Certain essential items like diaper bags and pushchairs are exempt from these carry-on bag rules and associated fees. The stricter carry-on policy aims to curb costs by discouraging multiple carry-on bags that increase boarding time and overhead bin space demands.
Read More: Allegiant Airlines carry-on luggage size
Choosing a Carry-On Bag for Spirit
Choosing the right carry-on bag is important when planning your trip with Spirit Airlines. Because Spirit has strict size limits of 18x14x8 inches for the personal item and 22x18x10 inches for the optional second bag, your carry-on needs to comfortably fit within these measurements. It’s a good idea to double-check your bag dimensions against Spirit’s published sizing chart.
Backpacks and roller bags tend to work best as they pack well and roll easily through the airport. Lightweight materials like nylon or polycarbonate help keep your bag under the weight limits as well. Look for bag features like trolley sleeves, multiple pockets, and padded shoulder straps for easy packing and mobility. Properly sized carry-ons can save you baggage fees and hassle by avoiding checked bags.
Spirit Bag Size Limits and Rules
- Personal items can be up to 18x14x8 inches and must fit under the seat
- One carry-on bag allowed for a fee, up to 22x18x10 inches
- Check bag fees based on bag size; first bag $35-100, second $45-200
- Overweight bags of 50-100 lbs are charged $100 fee each way
- Oversized hockey bags/surfboards allowed for a $150-$200 fee
- Musical instruments may qualify as personal items, with no fee
- No loose items, all bags must have closure; contents must fit in one trip to the gate
- Gates checked bags accepted based on flight availability, $100 fee
- Extra legroom seats cannot be used for additional luggage
- Bikes and multi-piece items count as bags and incur separate fees
Personal Items and Spirit
Spirit Airlines allows one free personal item like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack within size limits of 18 x 14 x 8 inches to fit under the seat. Larger personal items will be checked at the gate. The airline doesn’t list a weight limit but gate agents may check items over 40 lbs. In addition to a personal item, passengers can bring essentials like umbrellas, cameras, diaper bags, assistive devices, and outerwear onboard without fees.
Books, food, and one duty-free bag are also allowed. Spirit permits pillows if they fit entirely inside the designated personal item bag. This free carry-on allowance, along with special exemptions for necessary and legal items, aims to balance passengers’ needs with control over overhead space and boarding times.
Infants and Spirit’s Carry-On Policy
Spirit Airlines recommends all infants under two have their own seat and FAA-approved car seat. However, lap infants are permitted. Parents traveling with lap infants can receive one free diaper bag in addition to their carry-on items. Strollers and car seats can be checked at the gate at no cost.
For infants in their tickets, adult fares apply and they receive the standard checked baggage allowance. Parents also get one complimentary diaper bag and can check the car seat and stroller for free. This policy aims to safely transport infants per FAA guidelines while providing bagging flexibility for essential baby items.
Standard Checked Baggage Size
When checking a bag on Spirit Airlines, it’s important to ensure it meets the standard size requirements to avoid paying additional fees. The maximum size allowed for the first checked bag, included in many fares, is generally 62 linear inches. This equates to bags roughly 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Both length and width combined must not exceed 62 inches.
Certain very rigid and non-collapsible bags like hard cases may be sized slightly smaller due to space constraints in the baggage hold. Spirit may also impose an overall weight limit of 50 pounds, though most standard bags fall well below this threshold when packed carefully. Following these size and weight rules helps travelers avoid excess charges during the check-in process.
Spirit Airlines Excess Baggage
Spirit Airlines implements rigorous baggage policies to discourage multiple checked bags and keep airfares low. Travelers are allowed one standard-sized checked bag as part of most airfares, but additional or oversized pieces of luggage will incur excess baggage fees. Fees for a second checked bag start around $45 each way for tickets purchased in advance, then increase to $100 or more if purchased at the airport.
Oversized bags measuring between 63-80 linear inches can be checked, though the applicable fees rise from $100 to $150 per direction. Even heavier bags between 50-70 pounds are assessed a $100 surcharge each way. These substantial excess baggage penalties aim to incentivize customers to travel lightly.
Oversized Sports Equipment
- First checked bag included in most airfares for $35-100 depending on flight dates
- Second and subsequent bags cost $45-200 each way
- The standard bag’s maximum size is 62 linear inches
- Overweight bags between 50-100 lbs are charged a $100 fee each way
- Oversized bags 63-80 linear inches are permitted for a $100-150 fee
- Bikes, surfboards, and skis charged $150 each way
- Golf bags and equipment $150-200 fees apply
- Maximum checked bag weight is 50 lbs, maximum linear inches is 150″
- Pre-purchasing checked bags online saves money versus airport fees
- Seat assignments cannot be used to transport extra bags
- Exceptions for musical instruments and job equipment sometimes apply
- Infant car seats and strollers check in free when flying with a lap child
FAQ’s
What is the maximum standard size for the first checked bag?
62 linear inches.
How much does the second checked bag typically cost?
$45-200 depending on when purchased.
What items have much higher excess baggage fees?
Oversized items like bicycles, surfboards and bulky sports equipment.
What is the maximum overall weight allowed for checked bags?
Bags must be under 50 pounds.
Conclusion
Spirit Airlines enforces strict size limits on both carry-on and checked bags to control costs and optimize space. Following their specified dimensions and weight restrictions helps travelers avoid excess baggage fees. While the allowances may seem limiting compared to other carriers, planning and reviewing Spirit’s detailed policies allows customers to travel efficiently within the limitations. Using approved carrying devices like rolling bags and packing minimally enables compliance. Exceptions also exist for certain essential items.
Overall, the streamlined approach aims to keep base fares affordable while maintaining passenger safety. With diligent preparation by checking measurements and purchasing extra baggage online in advance if needed, travelers can navigate Spirit’s size constraints comfortably and within budget. Adhering to the clear guidelines makes for smoother journeys on the value airline.
