Last updated: October 2025
Traveling with Spirit Airlines can be a cost-effective choice, but understanding their baggage policy is crucial to avoid surprise fees and ensure a smooth journey. This comprehensive 2025 guide explains everything you need to know about Spirit’s baggage allowances, fees, and practical strategies for saving money—plus tips the competition often misses.
Quick Overview & What’s New in 2025
Spirit Airlines is known for its à la carte pricing model: passengers pay a low base fare and add extras—including baggage—based on their needs. In 2025, Spirit has updated select baggage fees and streamlined its carry-on rules to align with evolving industry standards. Notably, fees for checked bags now fluctuate more dynamically based on destination and travel season, and the “Saver$ Club” offers deeper discounts for early planners. Always check the date of your policy info, as these changes tend to roll out quietly.
What Bags Can You Bring Onboard?
Personal Item Allowance
Every Spirit Airlines ticket includes one free personal item. This must fit under the seat in front of you and cannot exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm)—think small backpacks, purses, or laptop bags. Exceeding these limits turns your personal item into a carry-on and incurs extra charges at the gate. For example, a 17-inch laptop bag fits comfortably, but a medium-sized duffel typically does not. Visual guides are available on Spirit’s website and app for reference.
Carry-On Baggage Policy
Carry-on bags are not included in the base fare. If you need one, it must be no larger than 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 46 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels, and should weigh no more than 40 lbs (18 kg). Fees range from $42–$65 each way, depending on when and how you purchase—cheaper online, more expensive at the gate.
Example:
If you pre-pay for a carry-on during booking, it might cost $42. Wait until check-in, and the price can jump to $55. Gate payments exceed $65. Planning ahead saves real money.
Checked Baggage Policy
Spirit permits checked bags up to 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and 40 lbs (18 kg). Fees are tied to route, date, and when you pay, generally $35–$60 for the first bag. Additional bags or those checked at the airport are pricier. International flights and peak periods (holidays, spring break) often command higher rates.
Practical Insight:
For a round-trip domestic flight, one checked bag pre-purchased online totals about $70. The same bag, added at the airport, might cost $100+ round-trip.
Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees (with Calculator)
Baggage Fee Table (by Route & Booking Method)
| Bag Type | At Booking | Before Check-In | At Airport Kiosk | At Gate |
| Personal Item | Free | Free | Free | Free |
| Carry-On | $42 | $55 | $65 | $69 |
| 1st Checked Bag | $35 | $45 | $60 | $70 |
| 2nd Checked Bag | $45 | $55 | $65 | $75 |
| Note: Prices vary by route/season. Use the calculator below for exact costs! |
Interactive Baggage Fee Calculator
Estimate your baggage fees:
Select your route, number of bags, and booking time to see your total cost.
Interactive Baggage Fee Calculator
Quick estimate for baggage fees. Update fee tables with card values from your article for accuracy.
Overweight, Oversized, and Extra Bags
Fees for Oversized/Overweight Bags
- Overweight (41–50 lbs): +$79 per bag
- Overweight (51–100 lbs): +$125 per bag
- Oversized (63–80 in): +$100 per bag
Bags exceeding 100 lbs or 80 inches are not accepted. Given Spirit’s strict enforcement, even a few extra pounds can result in hefty fees.
What Happens If Your Bag Is Too Big or Heavy?
If your bag is overweight or oversized at check-in, agents will require you to pay the corresponding fee or repack your items on the spot. For instance, a traveler with a 48-lb suitcase paid an additional $79 at the airport—far more than the base bag fee itself. Spirit does not offer grace weights, so consider using a luggage scale before leaving home.
Special Items & Exceptions
Traveling with Infants, Strollers & Car Seats
Parents may check a stroller and a car seat for free, in addition to one personal item per ticketed child. Strollers must be checked at the gate or ticket counter.
Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments & Fragile Items
Most sports gear (like golf clubs, skis) counts as checked baggage and must adhere to size/weight rules. Fragile or valuable items should be packed carefully—Spirit is not liable for damage unless items are declared and packed per airline instructions. Musical instruments fitting the carry-on size may be brought onboard; larger ones must be checked.
International Travel Considerations
International flights (e.g., to Latin America or the Caribbean) often have higher fees and lower checked bag limits. Always verify the specific route’s policy, as Spirit occasionally updates international terms due to local regulations.
How to Save on Spirit Baggage Fees
Tips & Tricks
- Book Early: Reserve and pay for bags during online booking for the lowest price.
- **Spirit SaverClub:** Join for \10–$20 discounts per bag.
- Use the Mobile App: Manage bags and check in to avoid airport upcharges.
- Pack Light: Consider traveling with just a personal item—Spirit’s under-seat measurement is more generous than some competitors.
- Bundle Offers: Look for vacation packages including baggage.
Packing Smart & Eco-Friendly Advice
Packing efficiently saves money and reduces carbon footprint. Use compression bags, pack neutral clothing, and opt for lightweight luggage. Spirit’s app offers packing checklists to help you travel smarter.
Baggage Refunds, Claims & Customer Support
Can You Get a Baggage Fee Refund?
Baggage fees are generally non-refundable unless Spirit cancels your flight or you downgrade to a ticket that does not permit checked bags. Refunds must be requested within 24 hours, and processing can take up to 10 business days.
Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Bags
If your bag is lost or delayed, file a claim at the baggage desk before leaving the airport. Compensation is capped at $3,800 per passenger for domestic flights, per DOT regulations. Damaged bags must be reported immediately, and claims require receipts for high-value items.
Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy vs. Other Airlines
Comparison Chart: Spirit vs. Major Competitors
| Carrier | Personal Item Included | Carry-On Fee | Checked Bag Fee | Overweight Fee |
| Spirit | Yes | $42+ | $35+ | $79+ |
| Frontier | Yes | $44+ | $38+ | $75+ |
| Southwest | Yes | Free | Free (2 bags) | $75+ |
| JetBlue | Yes | Included* | $35+ | $150+ |
| *Some JetBlue fares include carry-on; lowest fares may not. |
When Spirit Is the Best (or Worst) Baggage Deal
Spirit excels for travelers able to pack light (personal item only) and book early. If you require multiple checked bags or last-minute baggage purchases, Southwest or JetBlue may offer better value.
FAQs
What is the Spirit Airlines personal item size limit?
18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).
Are carry-on bags free with Spirit Airlines?
No, they incur a fee unless you have elite status or a special promotion.
How much does a checked bag cost on Spirit Airlines?
Typically $35–$60 for the first bag, varying by route and purchase timing.
Can I bring food or drinks in my carry-on?
Yes, but drinks must comply with TSA liquid rules.
What happens if my bag is overweight?
Overweight fees apply: $79 (41–50 lbs), $125 (51–100 lbs).
How do I avoid Spirit Airlines baggage fees?
Pack light, use only a personal item, and pay for bags early.
Are there baggage fees for international Spirit flights?
Yes, and they’re often higher than domestic rates.
Does Spirit Airlines refund baggage fees if I cancel?
Only under specific circumstances; see refund section above.
How do I report lost baggage with Spirit Airlines?
File a claim at the airport’s baggage desk before leaving.
Can I use a duffel bag as a personal item?
Only if it fits Spirit’s personal item dimensions.
Resources & Further Reading
- Spirit Airlines Official Baggage Policy
- Baggage Fee Calculator
- Packing Checklist PDF
- DOT Baggage Rights
