You can only bring one free personal item on Spirit Airlines under the dimensions of 18×14×8 inches. Bigger carry-on luggages (handles & wheels included) will cost extra money. And the price will go up the close you get to your flight time. But there's no set weight limit, which is also good for travelers.
In this guide, you'll know all the details from bag dimensions, fees, and allowed items to top destination tips. Read on!
Spirit Airlines Key Carry-On Rules
What can I carry on Spirirt Airlines?
Before hopping on a flight via Spirirt Airlines, knowing what type of carry-on you'll take helps no extra issue when checking in.
On Spirit Airlines, you get one free personal item with standard dimensions at 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45.7 x 35.6 x 20.3 cm). However ,if you need more space, you have to pay. Here's a table for you to better understand the carry-on rules.
Item Type | Dimensions (Inches) | Cost Range | Storage Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Personal Item (Complimentary) | 18 x 14 x 8 | Free | Under the seat in front |
Full-Size Carry-On (Fee-Based) | 22 x 18 x 10 | $35–$100 | Overhead bin |
Spirit Airlines Full-Size Carry-On Fees & Policy
The fees you pay for full-size carry-on depend on when you but the priority to bring one. The fact is the earlier you book, the cheaper it is.
Booking Timing | Fee Range | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
During Flight Reservation | $35–$50 | Cheapest option |
After Booking (Online/App) | $40–$60 | Do this before airport check-in |
At Check-In Counter | $50–$75 | Avoid to skip higher fees |
At the Gate | Up to $100 | Most expensive; strictly enforced |
Notes: You can show a valid military ID at check-in to get a free full-size carry-on; members from Spirit Saver$ Club can get lower carry-on fees (often $5-$10 off); if you hold the partner credit card like Spirit Airlines World Mastercard, you may get a free full-size carry-on benefit.
What Can I Carry on Spirit Airlines?
Everyday Beauty Essentials | kendi everyday
What can you carry on Spirit Airlines? What about your everyday essentials like laptops, shampoo, snacks, etc.? What's the limit? Here's what you need to pay attention to:
Item Category | Allowed Items & Rules |
|---|---|
Everyday Essentials (No Extra Fees) | Electronics (laptops, tablets, <100Wh power banks); travel-sized toiletries (≤3.4oz/100ml, meds in larger sizes OK with security declaration); jackets/scarves/extra clothes; non-liquid snacks (chips, granola bars, fruit) |
Special Items (Exempt from Size Limits) | Medical equipment (wheelchairs, CPAP machines—doctor’s note may be needed); infant gear (collapsible stroller, car seat, diaper bag); assistive devices (service animal supplies, canes, hearing aids) |
Restricted/Oversized/Prohibited Items | Musical instruments: OK if they fit bin/under seat, extra seat needed for large ones Sports gear: Golf bags/skis must be checked (extra fees) Prohibited: Sharp objects (>4in scissors), flammables, large liquids (>3.4oz/100ml); guns/ammo need special checked handling |
Expert Tips for Spirit Airlines Carry-On
Follow these tips to save money, pack smarter, and avoid stress with your Spirit carry-on:
Avoid Extra Fees
- Book your carry-on during flight reservation.
- Choose a 18x14x8 inch bag to fit more without paying extra.
- Join Spirit Saver$ Club if you fly Spirit often.
Pack Smart
Minimalist Packing & Travel Light With Only Carry-On
- Roll your clothes instead of folding them.
- Use packing cubes to organize items and fit more into tight spaces.
- Keep valuables (passport, wallet, laptop) in your personal item.
- Wear bulky items (jackets, boots) on the plane.
Stay Updated
- Check Spirit’s official website before your flight.
- Sign up for flight alerts: Spirit will notify you of any last-minute changes that affect your carry-on.
- Use a tape measure to confirm if it fits Spirit’s dimensions.
Popular Destinations via Spirit Airlines
Big Bus Tours Miami
Spirit flies to dozens of top destinations—domestic and international. Here are carry-on tips tailored to some of their most popular routes:
Domestic Top Destinations (U.S.)
- Orlando (MCO) & Miami (MIA): Pack travel-sized sunscreen (3.4oz max) and a compact umbrella in your personal item. Theme park tickets and a reusable water bottle (empty, to fill at the airport) are must-haves.
- Las Vegas (LAS): Bring a small crossbody bag for your phone, wallet, and casino cards—easy to carry while exploring the Strip. A light jacket is smart (casinos are cold).
- New York (JFK): Use a durable backpack for walking around the city. Pack a foldable tote bag—great for souvenirs without paying for an extra carry-on.
International Key Routes
- Cancun (CUN) & Punta Cana (PUJ): Pack a swim suit in your personal item—you can hit the beach right after landing. Travel-sized bug spray and aloe vera are essentials.
- Bogota (BOG) & Lima (LIM): Bring a reusable water bottle (altitude in Bogota can make you thirsty) and a light sweater (even tropical cities have cool nights).
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Airline name Spirit Airlines | Airline code NK | Airline type Low-cost carrier (LCC) |
Popular Countries Spirit Airlines Flies to: Colombia, United States and Guatemala | ||
Popular Spirit Airlines Arrival Cities | ||
Popular Spirit Airlines Departure Cities |
FAQs about Spirit Airlines Carry-on Size
Does Spirit have a weight limit for carry-ons?
No official weight limit, but you must be able to lift the bag into the overhead bin by yourself.Can I bring a backpack and a purse on Spirit?
Only one can be your free personal item. If both are over 18x14x8 inches, you’ll need to pay for a full-size carry-on.Is a diaper bag considered a personal item on Spirit?
Yes—for passengers with infants. It counts as your free personal item, so it must fit under the seat.What if my carry-on is slightly over Spirit’s size limit?
Spirit is strict—even a little over can mean a gate fee. Play it safe and stick to the 22x18x10 inch limit for full-size carry-ons.Can I bring a pet carrier as my personal item?
Yes—pet carriers count as your personal item if they fit under the seat (18x14x8 inches) and you pay the pet fee ($99 each way).