Spirit Airlines Checked Baggage Policy +1-866-666-0215

Spirit Airlines is one of the leading ultra-low-cost carriers in the United States, known for offering travelers some of the cheapest airfare options in the market. However, like many budget airlines, Spirit Airlines Checked Baggage Policy, meaning that the base ticket price covers only the seat and one personal item. Checked baggage, along with carry-on luggage and other extras, comes at an additional cost.

To ensure a smooth and budget-friendly travel experience, passengers must understand Spirit’s checked baggage rules, fees, weight restrictions, and policies for special items. This essay will provide a complete breakdown of these rules while offering practical tips to save money and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Standard Checked Baggage Rules

Unlike many traditional airlines, Spirit does not include free checked baggage in its standard ticket fare. Passengers can choose to add checked baggage for an extra fee.

Maximum size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height combined).

Maximum weight: 40 lbs (18.1 kg).

Overweight charges:

41–50 lbs: $79 per bag.

51–70 lbs: $125 per bag.

71–100 lbs: $150 per bag.

Oversize charges:

63–80 inches: $150 per bag.

Bags over 80 inches are not accepted.

2. Number of Checked Bags Allowed

Passengers may check up to five bags per person, but all come with an additional fee. Infants traveling on an adult’s lap do not receive a separate checked baggage allowance.

3. Checked Baggage Fees

The cost of checking a bag on Spirit Airlines varies depending on when and how you purchase the allowance:

During initial booking (online): Cheapest option, often around $30–$40 for the first bag.

After booking but before check-in (online): Slightly higher, around $40–$50.

At airport check-in: Most expensive, usually $50–$60 or more.

Spirit’s Bag-O-Tron tool on its official website allows passengers to calculate exact baggage fees for their specific route and travel date.

4. Special Items Policy

Spirit Airlines accepts a variety of special items, although they may incur additional handling charges.

Sports equipment: Bikes, golf clubs, skis, snowboards, and surfboards can be checked in but may require extra fees.

Musical instruments: Accepted if they fit within the size and weight restrictions.

Medical devices: Wheelchairs and mobility aids are carried free of charge.

5. Military Baggage Benefits

One area where Spirit is notably generous is its policy toward active-duty U.S. military personnel (with valid ID):

2 free checked bags.

1 free carry-on bag.

No oversize or overweight charges for these free items.

6. Avoiding Extra Charges

Because Spirit’s pricing structure heavily relies on add-on fees, being strategic about luggage can save significant amounts of money.
 Practical tips include:

Purchase baggage online at booking to get the lowest price.

Weigh your luggage at home to avoid overweight charges.

Share suitcase space with companions to reduce the number of bags.

Consider joining the $9 Fare Club for additional baggage discounts.

Conclusion
The Spirit Airlines Checked Baggage Policy reflects the airline’s low-cost business model—tickets are cheap, but extras like checked luggage can quickly increase the total cost if you’re not careful. By understanding size and weight limits, purchasing baggage allowances early, and packing strategically, travelers can make the most of Spirit’s budget-friendly fares without falling into the trap of last-minute fees.