What Size is a Carry-On Bag for Spirit Airlines? The Definitive Guide

The golden rule of flying Spirit Airlines? Pack smart, and know your baggage allowance. Specifically, the size of your carry-on. So, let’s cut to the chase: Spirit Airlines allows one free personal item, but carry-on bags are subject to a fee. The maximum size for a personal item is 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm), including handles and wheels. This needs to fit entirely under the seat in front of you. If you want to bring a full-sized carry-on bag, the maximum dimensions are 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 46 x 25 cm), also including handles and wheels, but you will be charged a fee for it. Let’s delve deeper and unlock the secrets to navigating Spirit’s baggage policies.

Decoding Spirit Airlines’ Baggage Policy

Spirit Airlines operates on an a la carte model. This means the base fare covers your seat and transportation, while everything else – from snacks to baggage – comes at an additional cost. Understanding this foundational principle is key to avoiding unpleasant surprises at the airport. Spirit thrives on ancillary revenue, which is just a fancy way of saying they make a significant portion of their money from fees, and baggage fees are a big part of that. Don’t get caught off guard!

The Free Personal Item: Your Best Friend

The free personal item is your saving grace on Spirit. Think of it as a large purse, a small backpack, or a laptop bag. The dimensions are critical; if your personal item exceeds 18 x 14 x 8 inches, you’ll be forced to pay the carry-on bag fee – or worse, the even higher gate-check fee. Make sure to measure your bag carefully and pack strategically.

The Carry-On Bag: A Paid Privilege

Unlike many airlines, Spirit charges for carry-on bags. If you want to bring a bag larger than the allowed personal item size (but smaller than the checked bag size), you’ll need to pay for it. The carry-on bag fee varies based on factors like when you purchase it (online during booking, online after booking, or at the airport) and your destination. It’s almost always cheaper to add your carry-on bag during the booking process.

Checked Baggage: When Bigger is (Sometimes) Better

For larger items, checked baggage is the way to go. While you’ll still pay a fee, it might be more economical than cramming everything into a smaller carry-on bag and paying for the privilege. Checked baggage fees also vary depending on when you purchase them. Be aware of weight restrictions; overweight bags incur additional charges. The maximum weight for a checked bag on Spirit is usually 40 pounds (18.1 kg), although this can vary. Check your specific itinerary for accurate weight limits.

Mastering the Art of Packing for Spirit

So, how do you navigate these restrictions and become a Spirit Airlines packing pro? Here are some tips and tricks:

• Embrace the Personal Item: Maximize the space in your personal item. Use packing cubes to compress clothing and organize your belongings.
• Consider a Travel Backpack: A well-designed travel backpack can be surprisingly spacious and often conforms well to the personal item size restrictions.
• Wear Your Heaviest Items: Layer up! Wear your bulkiest shoes, jacket, and sweater on the plane to free up space in your bag.
• Purchase Baggage Allowance Online: It’s almost always cheaper to purchase your carry-on bag or checked baggage allowance online, either during the booking process or before you arrive at the airport.
• Weigh Your Bags: Invest in a luggage scale to ensure your bags meet the weight restrictions and avoid overweight fees.
• Be Prepared to Pay: If you’re unsure whether your bag meets the requirements, be prepared to pay the carry-on bag fee at the airport. It’s better to be proactive than to be surprised at the gate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let’s address some common questions to further clarify Spirit Airlines’ baggage policies.

1. What happens if my personal item is too big?

If your personal item exceeds the 18 x 14 x 8 inch size limit, you’ll be required to pay the carry-on bag fee. If space is available, the bag will be allowed. However, if the overhead bins are full, your bag may be gate-checked, and you’ll likely pay an even higher fee.

2. How much does it cost to bring a carry-on bag on Spirit?

The carry-on bag fee varies depending on several factors, including your destination, when you purchase the allowance (online during booking, online after booking, or at the airport), and your Spirit Airlines frequent flyer status. Expect to pay somewhere between $30 and $75 for a carry-on bag, but always check the specific fee during the booking process.

3. Can I bring a purse and a carry-on bag?

No. Spirit Airlines only allows one free personal item. If you bring a purse that exceeds the 18 x 14 x 8 inch limit, it will be considered a carry-on bag and subject to a fee.

4. Are there any exceptions to the carry-on bag fee?

Yes, certain items are exempt from baggage fees. These typically include assistive devices (wheelchairs, crutches), strollers, and car seats. However, it’s always best to confirm the specific policy with Spirit Airlines before your flight.

5. Can I bring food on Spirit Airlines?

Yes, you can bring food on Spirit Airlines. However, if you plan to consume it on board, remember that they do not offer complimentary meals. You can purchase food and beverages from their onboard menu.

6. What is the weight limit for a carry-on bag on Spirit?

Spirit Airlines does not typically publish a specific weight limit for carry-on bags, but it’s generally understood that your carry-on bag should be of a manageable weight for you to lift into the overhead bin. Overweight carry-on bags are more likely to be scrutinized.

7. Is it cheaper to check a bag or pay for a carry-on on Spirit?

This depends on when you purchase the allowance. Typically, purchasing checked baggage online during booking is often the cheapest option. However, it’s best to compare the fees for both carry-on bags and checked baggage during the booking process to determine the most cost-effective option for your specific itinerary.

8. What happens if my carry-on bag is overweight?

While Spirit doesn’t consistently weigh carry-on bags, gate agents may visually assess them. If your bag appears excessively heavy, they might ask you to weigh it. If it exceeds a reasonable weight, they may require you to check it and pay the checked baggage fee.

9. Can I bring liquids in my carry-on bag on Spirit?

Yes, you can bring liquids in your carry-on bag on Spirit, but they must comply with the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule. This means each liquid container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, and all containers must fit comfortably in a single, quart-sized, clear plastic zip-top bag.

10. What happens if the overhead bins are full?

If the overhead bins are full, gate agents may ask passengers to gate-check their carry-on bags. Gate-checked bags are transported in the cargo hold and returned to you at the arrival gate. Note that this doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be charged a fee if your bag should have been a personal item.

11. Does Spirit Airlines offer free carry-on bags for certain fare classes?

No. Spirit Airlines does not offer complimentary carry-on bags based on fare class. All passengers, regardless of their fare class, must pay for carry-on bags unless they only bring a personal item that meets the size restrictions.

12. How strictly does Spirit enforce the carry-on bag size limits?

Spirit Airlines is generally quite strict about enforcing carry-on bag size limits. Gate agents often use sizers to check the dimensions of bags, and they are quick to enforce fees for bags that exceed the limits. It’s crucial to adhere to the stated dimensions to avoid unexpected costs.

By understanding Spirit Airlines’ baggage policies and packing strategically, you can successfully navigate the skies and enjoy a budget-friendly travel experience. Happy travels!