Loading Page...

What are the restrictions on Spirit Airlines?

Checked bags: Maximum of 62 linear inches (length + width + height; 158 cm) including handles and wheels and maximum of 40 pounds in weight (18.1 kg). Any bag that exceeds these dimensions or weight limit is considered oversized/overweight and has a corresponding charge.



Spirit Airlines operates on an "Ultra Low-Cost Carrier" (ULCC) model, which means the base fare only covers your seat and one small personal item (like a backpack) that must fit under the seat in front of you. Any item larger than 18x14x8 inches, including standard carry-on suitcases and checked bags, incurs significant fees that are usually cheaper if paid during the initial booking. Beyond baggage, Spirit has strict restrictions on seat assignments; if you do not pay a fee to select a seat, you will be randomly assigned one at check-in, and there is no guarantee that groups traveling together will be seated next to each other. Furthermore, Spirit does not provide complimentary water, snacks, or Wi-Fi; all onboard services are "a la carte" and must be paid for via credit card. In 2026, their "Big Front Seat" remains a popular upgrade for those wanting more space without the full "First Class" price tag, but the core restriction remains: if you didn't pay for the extra "frill," you won't receive it.

People Also Ask

Spirit allows passengers one free personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack. Your personal item must be small enough to store under the seat in front of you.

MORE DETAILS

Spirit Airlines passengers are charged for both carry-on and checked bags. This is so that the airline can keep their ticket prices low.

MORE DETAILS

Personal items must fit entirely in the smaller sizer box (including handles and wheels). Another personal item, or anything larger will be charged as a carry-on.

MORE DETAILS

Backpacks, totes, and crossbody bags are typically considered personal items too. The key to remember is it must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

MORE DETAILS

Dress Code When traveling on Spirit, we welcome casual dress attire.

MORE DETAILS

Can you bring a backpack on Spirit for free? Spirit allows you to bring one personal item that fits under the seat in front of you, meaning that it cannot exceed 18” x 14” x 8”. You can bring a small backpack for free as long as it is not larger than that. Larger backpacks or other carry-on bags cost extra.

MORE DETAILS

One personal item that fits entirely in the smaller sizer box (like a purse, small backpack, etc.) is included with your ticket. Another personal item or anything larger like a standard carry-on or checked bag will need to be paid for.

MORE DETAILS

A backpack can be your carry on if it meets your airline's carry on size limits. A personal item is a smaller, secondary bag, which you'll stow under the seat in front of you. Read Carry Ons vs. Personal Items for more on the differences between the two.

MORE DETAILS

Usually, many airlines won't check every carry-on but will instead go for ones that look oversized. If your luggage does not fit in the sizer, you might have to pay a checked bag fee along with the gate checking fee and have your bag transferred to the airplane's cargo.

MORE DETAILS

Does Spirit have Wi-Fi? Yes, it does. You'll pay per leg of your journey, and the actual price varies quite a bit depending on the flight, but it is available on most Spirit Airlines flights. There are options for both browsing and streaming speeds, so you can stay connected the next time you travel.

MORE DETAILS