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Spirit Airlines is one of the go-to low-cost carriers around. This guide provides you with important information you need to know about its carry-on size policy before you book your flight.

Man pulling out hand luggage from compartment while traveling by plane.

What is Spirit Airlines’ carry-on policy?

Spirit Airlines allows one small personal item. 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.

Personal items have to be small enough to fit under the space in front of your seat. They must not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). The larger carry-on bag should not be more than 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 46 x 25 cm) and be safely stowed in the overhead cabin. If the item exceeds the allowed dimensions, it will be checked into the hold, and set fees will apply.

 Carry-on bagPersonal item
Max dimensions22 x 18 x 10 inches
(56 x 46 x 25 cm)
18 x 14 x 8 inches
(45 cm x 35 cm x 20 cm)
Max weightNot specifiedNot specified
Allowance1 carry-on bag*
(fee applies)
1 personal item
(fee free)

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.

🧳 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 is Spirit Airlines’ policy on carry-on liquid?

Liquids can be carried on Spirit Airlines flights, provided that they meet the TSA’s Liquids Rule. Travelers can bring a quart-sized bag of liquids in containers or bottles of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.

What extra items can I bring on board?

A happy couple with their toddler sitting inside the aeroplane.

You can bring assistive devices 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 are not counted towards the carry-on allowance.

For ease of process, 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 they are securely packed and 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.

Spirit Airlines carry-on FAQ

Rear view of a woman at the airport walking to her departure gate

Does Spirit Airlines charge for a carry-on?

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.

Is a backpack considered a personal item on Spirit Airlines?

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 (45 x 35 x 20 cm) or below and fit under the space in front of your seat.

Is it cheaper to check a bag or carry it on board a Spirit Airlines flight?

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.

How can a traveler avoid paying Spirit Airlines’ carry-on baggage fees?

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. If needed, pay for baggage during booking since reservations made in advance cost less than those made at gate check-ins. You may also be interested in joining the Spirit Saver$ Club to gain access to exclusive deals. Furthermore, Spirit Airlines offers one free carry-on and two free checked bags for all active-duty military members, so make sure to bring official proof or documentation.

Disclaimer: Information is correct as of 26.072023 and may vary with time.

About the author

Fie KornumFie is Head of Content at KAYAK. Her ideal holiday would be sitting by the fireplace in a quiet cabin somewhere off the grid, watching the snow fall while relaxing with a glass of wine. Reality, however, is messier - and a lot noisier. Because when you’re travelling with two kids, there’s always something happening (usually involving pools or ice cream.) Follow Fie on Linkedin for more travel inspiration.

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