This guide provides you with everything you need to know about Spirit Airlines’ carry-on size policy before you book your flight. Read on to learn how to make your next trip hassle free and as comfortable as possible.
What is Spirit Airlines’ carry-on size policy?
Spirit Airlines is known for its budget-friendly fares, which are reflected in carry-on bag size policies that are on the sparse side. All passengers can bring one personal item free of charge, but adding a carry-on bag costs extra. Below, we outline the size regulations for passengers who opt to pay for an additional carry-on bag.
Spirit Airlines’ carry-on size policy for Go Big, Go Comfy, and Go Savvy passengers:
- Spirit Airlines has no specific carry-on weight limit. As long as the item meets the size requirements and you can carry it unassisted, you will be allowed to bring it on board.
- A fee applies for every additional, larger item. The amount depends on when the allowance is purchased – at the initial booking, before/during check-in, at the airport, or at the gate. The closer the purchase is to the flight, the higher the fee is. Use their baggage calculator to find out more.
Tip: Measure your luggage accurately with KAYAK’s handy Bag Measurement tool in the mobile app and read tips on how to pack a carry-on.
What extra items can I bring on board?
You can bring assistive devices like wheelchairs or crutches and medication onboard Spirit Airlines for free, provided that they are packed separately from regular baggage items. These items must not exceed the prescribed dimensions and do not count towards the carry-on allowance. You should indicate that you’ll be bringing an assistive device when you make your reservation.
You can also travel with musical instruments and sports equipment, provided that you securely pack them and that they meet the airline’s size restrictions.
If you’re traveling with an infant on your lap, you can carry a diaper bag, car seat, and stroller at no extra cost.
Also be sure to double check what isn’t allowed in your carry-on before you start packing.
Spirit Airlines carry-on bag size FAQs
To keep ticket prices affordable for all, Spirit Airlines charges travelers for larger carry-on luggage and checked bags. A personal item that fits in a purse or small backpack is allowed at no extra cost.
Whether a backpack is considered a personal item or a carry-on will depend on its dimensions. For it to be considered a personal item, it must be 18 x 14 x 8 inches or below and fit under the space in front of your seat.
Spirit Airlines’ carry-on baggage fees vary from flight to flight, based on the route, date of travel, and how you book your flight. Checked baggage fees also vary, but they tend to be priced more stably.
Top three Spirit Airlines carry-on luggage tips
Tip #1: Measure the luggage you’ll use for your carry-on and personal item before you even start packing.
To avoid paying unnecessary luggage fees, pack or carry a personal item that meets the prescribed dimensions and fits underneath the seat in front of you on the aircraft.
Still having trouble fitting everything? Check out these expert tips on packing for your next flight.
Tip #2: Be sure to book your carry-on as early as possible to minimize fees.
If needed, pay for baggage during booking since reservations made in advance cost less than those made at gate check-ins. It’s difficult to concretely say how much extra baggage fees will be, as it varies depending on factors like ticket category and destination. Still, it’ll definitely be more expensive if you wait to add a carry-on at the airport.
Tip #3: Consider joining the Spirit Saver$ Club to gain access to exclusive deals.
Frequent flyer on Spirit Airlines? Then you’ll definitely want to look into joining the Spirit Saver$ Club. It’ll give you access to discounts on bags and offers on even cheaper flight fares. It costs $69.95 annually, but if you’re flying often with this airline, it could save you much more.
⏰ Last update: March 4, 2025 – because staying informed makes travel smoother.
