When it comes to affordable air travel, Spirit Airlines is often the first name that comes to mind. Known for its ultra-low-cost fares, Spirit operates on a unique business model that allows passengers to customize their travel experience by choosing and paying for the services they need, including baggage. One of the most commonly asked questions when flying with Spirit Airlines is about their baggage charges.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Spirit Airlines baggage charges, how they are structured, and how you can save money when flying with Spirit. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy
Unlike traditional airlines, Spirit Airlines doesn’t include free checked bags or even carry-on bags with your base ticket fare. Spirit’s approach helps keep ticket prices low while giving passengers the flexibility to choose the services they require. The baggage charges can vary depending on factors such as:
- The type of bag (personal item, carry-on, checked bag)
- When and how you pay for the baggage (online vs. at the airport)
- The route you are flying
- Your membership or frequent flyer status
Types of Baggage Charges
1. Personal Item (Free)
Spirit Airlines allows one personal item free of charge, which can be a backpack, laptop bag, or purse. However, it must fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum size allowed for a personal item is 18 x 14 x 8 inches.
2. Carry-On Baggage Charges
Carry-on bags are not included in your base fare and come with an additional cost. The fee for a carry-on depends on when you purchase the baggage allowance and ranges from $26 to $65. Here’s how you can estimate the cost:
- Online during booking: $26 – $35
- After booking, but before check-in: $36 – $45
- At the airport counter: $55
- At the gate: $65
Carry-on baggage must fit in the overhead bin and should not exceed the dimensions of 22 x 18 x 10 inches.
3. Checked Baggage Charges
Checked baggage also comes with a fee, and the cost varies based on the number of bags you’re checking in and when you pay for the allowance. Spirit allows checked bags weighing up to 40 pounds, which is less than the 50-pound limit allowed by many other airlines.
- 1st checked bag: $21 – $50
- 2nd checked bag: $31 – $60
- 3rd to 5th checked bag: $76 – $100
Note: Checking bags at the airport or at the gate will cost more than pre-paying online.
Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees
Spirit Airlines is strict when it comes to overweight and oversized luggage, and the fees can add up quickly if your baggage exceeds the weight or size limits.
- Overweight fees (41 to 50 lbs): $30 – $50 extra per bag
- Overweight fees (51 to 70 lbs): $55 – $100 extra per bag
- Oversized baggage (63 to 80 inches): $100 extra per bag
- Oversized baggage (80+ inches): $150 extra per bag
How to Save on Spirit Airlines Baggage Charges?
1. Prepay for Your Baggage
The earlier you pay for your baggage, the cheaper it will be. It’s recommended to add baggage during the initial booking process. Paying for bags at the airport will always be more expensive.
2. Join the $9 Fare Club
Spirit Airlines offers a membership program called the $9 Fare Club. For an annual fee, you can get discounts on fares and baggage fees. If you fly frequently with Spirit, this membership could save you a significant amount of money on baggage charges.
3. Travel Light
If possible, try to limit your luggage to a personal item that fits under the seat. Since personal items are free, this can help you avoid any additional baggage fees.
4. Bundle Your Baggage with a “Flight Flex” Package
Spirit offers bundle packages that include baggage, seat selection, and other perks at a discounted rate. If you plan to check or carry on multiple bags, these bundles may offer some savings.
5. Weigh Your Bags Before You Leave
Make sure your checked baggage is under the 40-pound limit and your carry-on is under the size limit to avoid paying overweight or oversized baggage fees. Use a luggage scale at home to check the weight before heading to the airport.
Spirit Airlines Baggage Size Limits
It’s important to remember that Spirit has strict size and weight limitations for both carry-on and checked baggage.
- Personal Item: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (free)
- Carry-On: 22 x 18 x 10 inches (fee applicable)
- Checked Bag: 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and 40 pounds
Any baggage exceeding these size or weight limits will incur extra fees.
Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees Comparison to Other Airlines
Spirit Airlines has one of the most detailed and strict baggage policies compared to other airlines. While some travelers may find the costs excessive, these fees help keep the base fare lower. Here’s a quick comparison of baggage charges between Spirit and other budget airlines:
- Frontier Airlines: Similar to Spirit, Frontier also charges for carry-on and checked bags. Fees range from $30 to $55 depending on when you pay.
- Allegiant Air: Allegiant also charges for carry-on and checked luggage, with fees similar to those of Spirit Airlines.
If you’re looking for the lowest fare possible and don’t need to bring more than a personal item, Spirit Airlines can still be a cost-effective option. However, if you’re planning to bring a lot of luggage, the total cost may end up being close to that of a standard airline.
Spirit Airlines Baggage Fee Waivers
Unfortunately, Spirit Airlines does not offer waivers for baggage fees, even for military personnel. However, some Spirit credit cardholders and frequent flyers under the Free Spirit loyalty program can enjoy benefits such as free checked bags and other perks, depending on their status.
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Conclusion
Flying with Spirit Airlines can be an economical choice if you understand and plan for the baggage fees in advance. By familiarizing yourself with Spirit Airlines’ baggage charges, you can avoid surprises at the airport and budget accordingly for your trip. Whether you decide to travel light with just a personal item or prepay for your checked bags, knowing the costs and saving options can make your flying experience smoother.
Remember, pre-book your baggage online to avoid higher fees, and if you’re a frequent traveler, consider joining the $9 Fare Club for discounts on baggage fees and fares. Stay within size and weight limits to steer clear of overweight or oversized baggage fees, and always weigh your bags before heading to the airport.
