Yes, Spirit Airlines does allow carry-on bags. However, like many low-cost carriers, Spirit has a unique approach to baggage policies that may differ from other airlines. While they do allow carry-on bags, there are specific guidelines, fees, and restrictions you should be aware of to avoid surprises when you travel.
In this article, we’ll break down Spirit Airlines' carry-on policy, including the size limitations, fees, and tips to make sure you comply with their rules and get the most value out of your carry-on.
1. Spirit Airlines Carry-On Baggage Policy
Spirit Airlines is a budget airline, and one of the key ways they keep their fares low is by charging extra for many services that other airlines might include in the price of the ticket. This includes carry-on bags.
While Spirit does allow carry-on baggage, it’s not included in the basic fare (like many traditional airlines). If you want to bring a carry-on bag onboard, you’ll need to pay a fee.
Carry-On Bag Size Restrictions
Spirit Airlines has specific size restrictions for carry-on bags to ensure they fit in the overhead bin. As of now, the carry-on bag must not exceed the following dimensions:
Dimensions: 22 inches high x 18 inches wide x 10 inches deep (56 cm x 46 cm x 25 cm)
Weight: There is no specific weight limit for carry-ons, but the bag must be manageable for you to lift into the overhead compartment.
These size restrictions are fairly standard among U.S. airlines, so as long as your bag is within these dimensions, it should fit in the overhead bin.
Personal Item
In addition to the carry-on bag, Spirit Airlines also allows passengers to bring one personal item on board for free. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples of personal items include:
A backpack
A purse
A small laptop bag
A small diaper bag
The personal item must meet these size requirements:
Dimensions: 18 inches high x 14 inches wide x 8 inches deep (46 cm x 36 cm x 20 cm)
While personal items are free of charge, you will need to pay an additional fee if your carry-on bag exceeds the size limit or if you need to check a larger item.
2. Carry-On Fees for Spirit Airlines
Since Spirit Airlines is a budget carrier, they charge fees for carry-on bags that are added to your ticket price, unlike full-service airlines. The cost of bringing a carry-on depends on when you purchase the allowance and the route you're flying.
Carry-On Fees Overview
Fees range from: $35 to $65 each way (one way) depending on the size of the bag and when you purchase it.
Purchase window: You can purchase the carry-on allowance when booking your flight, or you can add it later through the Spirit Airlines website or app. Generally, the earlier you add the carry-on to your reservation, the cheaper the fee.
At the airport: Fees are usually higher if you wait until you’re at the airport to pay for your carry-on.
The best way to avoid high carry-on fees is to plan ahead and purchase your carry-on bag allowance during the booking process, especially if you know you'll need it.
Fee Breakdown
Before Departure:
If you add the carry-on at the time of booking or via your online check-in, the cost is generally lower. The exact price can vary depending on the route, but expect a range from $35 to $45 for a standard carry-on.
At the Airport:
If you wait until the airport to add a carry-on, Spirit Airlines charges a higher fee, usually around $55 to $65 per carry-on bag.
Spirit's "Big Front Seat" Passengers:
If you're flying in a "Big Front Seat" (Spirit’s version of first class), you still have to pay for your carry-on, but Spirit does offer additional perks with this seating, such as early boarding and more space for your carry-on in the overhead bin.
3. Tips for Carrying Bags with Spirit Airlines
If you’re flying with Spirit Airlines and want to avoid extra baggage fees, here are a few tips to help you:
1. Pack Light
Since personal items are free, try to pack only what you can fit into a small bag that meets the personal item dimensions. Consider:
Rolling up clothes tightly.
Using packing cubes to maximize space.
Bringing multi-use clothing items to minimize your overall packing.
2. Purchase a Bundle
Spirit Airlines offers bundles, like the “Fly For More” option, which includes carry-on bags, checked baggage, and seat selection. If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, buying a bundle can save you money in the long run compared to paying for carry-ons and checked bags separately.
3. Use a Backpack or Bag as Your Personal Item
A backpack can often fit quite a bit of clothing and other essentials, and if it fits within the personal item size limits, you won’t have to pay an extra fee for it. Look for a compact, spacious bag that is designed to fit under the seat in front of you.
4. Pay for Carry-On in Advance
If you know you’ll need a carry-on, pay for it at the time of booking or as early as possible to take advantage of the lower fees. As mentioned earlier, prices increase at the airport, so booking your carry-on in advance is a smart move.
4. What Happens if Your Carry-On is Too Large?
If your carry-on bag exceeds the size limits for Spirit Airlines, you’ll be required to check the bag at the gate. This can result in additional fees, so it’s important to measure your bag before arriving at the airport to ensure it’s within the permitted size range.
Gate Check Fees: If you need to gate check your bag, it can cost between $65 and $100, depending on your route and when the bag is checked.
5. Does Spirit Airlines Offer Any Free Carry-On Alternatives?
Spirit Airlines operates on a “pay-per-use” model for most additional services, so the only free bag you can bring is a personal item. However, if you’re hoping to avoid any extra fees for carry-on bags, here are some ideas:
Bring a smaller personal item: A small, compact backpack or bag that fits under the seat can be your only free item. It might not be enough for all your items, but it can help you save on carry-on fees.
Consider checking your bag: Depending on the length of your trip and the cost of the carry-on, it might be worth it to check a bag instead. The checked baggage fees on Spirit are usually around $30-$40 for the first checked bag, which could be cheaper than paying for a carry-on if your bag exceeds the size limit.
6. Conclusion
Yes, Spirit Airlines does allow carry-on bags, but there are specific size restrictions and associated fees for bringing a carry-on on board. Spirit’s baggage policy follows the budget airline model, where you pay for what you use. While the airline allows you to bring a carry-on, it’s important to know the fees and size limits ahead of time to avoid any surprises.
To save money, it’s best to plan ahead, pay for your carry-on early, or try to pack light and fit everything into a personal item. With the right strategy, you can make the most of Spirit Airlines' baggage policies and enjoy a smooth flight.
