Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy (2026) — Fees, Limits & Rules
Spirit Airlines charges for both carry-on and checked bags on most fares, though one personal item is free. Checked bags are limited to 50 lbs (23 kg) and 62 linear inches before overweight/oversized fees apply.
Baggage Allowance Summary
| Airline | Spirit Airlines (NK) |
|---|---|
| Carry-On | 22x18x10 inches (56x46x25 cm), no specific weight limit but must stow safely |
| Personal Item | 1 personal item: 18x14x8 inches (45x35x20 cm). Must fit under the seat. |
| Checked Bag Allowance | Value: 0 bags. Premium Economy: 0 bags. Spirit First: 1 bag (50 lbs). Active military: 2 free bags. |
| First Bag Fee | $36-$50 depending on when purchased (during booking vs airport) |
| Second Bag Fee | $46-$60 depending on when purchased |
| Overweight Fee | $35 for 41-50 lbs (18-23 kg), $60 for 51-70 lbs (23-32 kg), $100 for 71-100 lbs (32-45 kg) |
| Oversized Fee | $150 for bags 63-80 linear inches |
| Max Weight | 23 kg |
| Max Dimensions | 158 cm linear (62 inches) |
| Free Bag in Economy | No |
Special Items
Sports Equipment
Bicycles: $75. Surfboards: $100 (max 2 per bag). Golf clubs and skis/snowboards: Standard checked bag fees apply, overweight charges may apply.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments allowed as carry-on if they fit dimensions. Large instruments can be checked or carried in a purchased seat. Checked instruments incur standard bag fees plus any oversized/overweight charges.
International Rules
Baggage fees and rules are generally the same for domestic and international flights.
Tips to Avoid Fees
1. Pay for bags during initial booking for the lowest price. 2. Join the Saver$ Club for discounted bag fees. 3. Earn Free Spirit Gold status for a free first checked bag and carry-on. 4. Pack light and only bring a personal item.
Unique Nuances
Active-duty military personnel get two free checked bags and a free carry-on. Spirit charges for carry-on bags, which is unusual compared to legacy carriers. Bag fees increase significantly if you wait to pay at the airport or gate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much did Spirit Airlines charge for checked bags?
- Before Spirit Airlines ceased operations on May 2, 2026, it charged $36-$50 depending on when purchased (during booking vs airport) for the first checked bag and $46-$60 depending on when purchased for the second bag.
- What was Spirit Airlines's carry-on bag size limit?
- When Spirit Airlines was operating (until May 2, 2026), its carry-on allowance was: 22x18x10 inches (56x46x25 cm), no specific weight limit but must stow safely. 1 personal item: 18x14x8 inches (45x35x20 cm). Must fit under the seat.
- Did Spirit Airlines include free checked bags in economy?
- No, Spirit Airlines did not include free checked bags in basic economy. Value: 0 bags. Premium Economy: 0 bags. Spirit First: 1 bag (50 lbs). Active military: 2 free bags.
- What was Spirit Airlines's overweight baggage fee?
- Before ceasing operations, Spirit Airlines charged $35 for 41-50 lbs (18-23 kg), $60 for 51-70 lbs (23-32 kg), $100 for 71-100 lbs (32-45 kg) for overweight bags.
- Could you bring sports equipment on Spirit Airlines?
- When Spirit Airlines was operating, its sports equipment policy was: Bicycles: $75. Surfboards: $100 (max 2 per bag). Golf clubs and skis/snowboards: Standard checked bag fees apply, overweight charges may apply.
- What were Spirit Airlines baggage fees?
- Before Spirit Airlines ceased operations on May 2, 2026, its baggage fees were $36-$50 depending on when purchased (during booking vs airport) for the first checked bag and $46-$60 depending on when purchased for the second. Overweight bags incurred an additional fee of $35 for 41-50 lbs (18-23 kg), $60 for 51-70 lbs (23-32 kg), $100 for 71-100 lbs (32-45 kg). Baggage fees and rules are generally the same for domestic and international flights.