Spirit Airlines' Suitcase Fees: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

If you're planning to fly with Spirit Airlines, you're probably aware that it's known for its ultra-low-cost fares. While the base ticket prices can be quite attractive, it's important to keep in mind that Spirit follows a "bare fare" model, meaning you'll need to pay extra for just about everything beyond your seat, including your suitcase. This can catch some travelers off guard, especially if they're not prepared for the additional fees. In this blog post, we'll break down what you need to know about Spirit Airlines suitcase fees and how to avoid unexpected costs.

1. How Spirit Airlines Fees Work

Spirit Airlines operates on an à la carte pricing model. This means that the initial ticket price covers only your seat and a small personal item that can fit under the seat in front of you. Anything beyond that, like carry-on luggage, checked baggage, seat selection, and even refreshments, comes at an additional cost. While this might seem inconvenient, it allows passengers to customize their flight experience and only pay for the services they actually use.

2. Types of Bags and Their Fees

Spirit charges different fees for different types of baggage:

Personal Item: Free of charge. This item must fit under the seat in front of you, with maximum dimensions of 18" x 14" x 8". Examples include a small backpack, laptop bag, or purse.

Carry-On Bag: Extra charge. Carry-on bags must fit in the overhead bin and should not exceed 22" x 18" x 10". The fee for a carry-on bag varies, depending on when you pay for it (more on that below).

Checked Baggage: Extra charge. Checked bags have a maximum weight limit of 40 pounds (18 kg), and the size should not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height). Fees are based on the weight of the bag and when you pay for it.

3. When to Pay for Your Bags

The cost of your baggage can vary significantly depending on when you purchase it. Generally, the earlier you pay for your suitcase, the lower the fee. Here’s a breakdown of the different stages at which you can pay for your bags and the associated costs:

When Booking Your Ticket Online: The cheapest option for adding luggage. Spirit encourages you to plan ahead by offering the lowest bag fees during the booking process on their website or app.

During Online Check-In: Slightly more expensive than adding bags at the time of booking. You can still save money by adding bags up to 24 hours before your flight.

At the Airport: The most expensive option. If you wait until you arrive at the airport to add bags, you’ll pay a premium. This is the same for both carry-on and checked bags. Be prepared for sticker shock if you leave it this late!

4. How Much Will It Cost?

The exact fee for your suitcase on Spirit Airlines will vary depending on several factors, including the route, the type of bag (carry-on or checked), and when you pay for it. Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect:

Carry-On Bag: Ranges from $30-$60 if purchased online during booking, and up to $65-$75 if purchased at the airport.

Checked Bag: The first checked bag usually costs between $25-$50 online, and $60-$70 if purchased at the airport. Subsequent checked bags will be more expensive.

Overweight/ Oversized Bags: If your checked bag weighs more than 40 pounds or exceeds the size limit, you will be charged an additional fee. These fees can range from $30 to $100 or more, depending on the severity of the excess weight or size.

5. Tips to Save on Spirit Suitcase Fees

Here are a few ways you can save on suitcase fees when flying with Spirit Airlines:

Travel Light: If possible, try to pack everything in a personal item that fits under the seat. It may require some clever packing, but it will save you a lot of money.

Pay for Bags When You Book: The earlier you add your luggage to your reservation, the cheaper it will be. Don't wait until you're at the airport to pay for bags.

Join the $9 Fare Club: Spirit’s subscription-based service offers discounts on baggage fees, as well as access to special fare deals. If you travel frequently, this could be a great way to save.

Weigh Your Luggage Before You Leave: Make sure your bags are within the weight limits before you head to the airport. This will help you avoid any surprise overweight fees.

Also Read: How to Avoid Spirit Airlines Suitcase (Baggage) Fees

6. Why Does Spirit Charge for Suitcases?

The concept behind Spirit's "bare fare" model is to offer travelers a low base fare and let them decide what additional services they need. For some, this means flying with only a small bag, while others might opt to pay for the convenience of a carry-on or checked bag. This approach allows Spirit to keep ticket prices low and cater to different types of travelers.

7. Final Thoughts

Spirit Airlines can be a great option if you're looking for budget-friendly travel, but you need to be prepared for the additional costs associated with suitcase fees. By understanding how the fees work and planning ahead, you can avoid surprises and save money on your next flight. Remember, the key is to pack smart, pay for bags early, and weigh your options carefully.

By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared for your Spirit flight and can enjoy a smoother travel experience without breaking the bank!