When flying with a budget carrier like Spirit Airlines, understanding baggage policies can make or break your travel experience. One of the most common sources of confusion among travelers is the difference between a personal item and a carry-on bag. This article will explain in detail what qualifies as a carry-on bag for Spirit Airlines, including size restrictions, fees, tips, and what you can and can’t bring.
Understanding Spirit Airlines’ Business Model
Before diving into carry-on bag specifics, it’s important to understand the business approach of Spirit Airlines. As a low-cost airline, Spirit offers ultra-cheap base fares and charges separately for additional services, including baggage, seat selection, and in-flight refreshments. This “unbundled” pricing model helps keep base ticket prices low but requires passengers to pay extra for what is included in other airlines by default.
With this model, Spirit distinguishes between personal items and carry-on bags—and knowing the difference is crucial for avoiding unexpected charges.
What Counts as a Carry-On Bag?
In the context of Spirit Airlines, a carry-on bag is a bag you bring onboard and place in the overhead bin. This is not the same as your free personal item, which must fit under the seat in front of you. Carry-on bags are optional and must be paid for during booking or before check-in to avoid higher fees at the airport.
Size Restrictions for Carry-On Bags
Spirit Airlines has strict requirements when it comes to carry-on bag dimensions. As of 2025, your carry-on must not exceed:
- 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 46 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels
If your bag exceeds these limits, it may be classified as a checked bag, which comes with its own set of fees and rules.
Common Examples of Carry-On Bags
To make things clearer, here are a few examples of what typically qualifies as a carry-on bag on Spirit Airlines:
- Small suitcases (often called cabin-size luggage)
- Backpacks that are too large to fit under the seat
- Large tote bags or duffel bags
- Rolling laptop bags or briefcases
Carry-On Fees: What You Need to Know
Unlike traditional carriers, Spirit Airlines charges for carry-on bags. These fees can vary based on several factors:
- When you pay (at booking, before check-in, or at the gate)
- The route and demand for that flight
- Membership in Spirit’s “$9 Fare Club” or Spirit Saver$ Club
On average, carry-on bag fees range from $35 to $65 if paid in advance and can go up to $100 at the gate. Planning ahead is key to saving money.
Comparison: Carry-On vs. Checked Bag Costs
Interestingly, checked bags on Spirit can sometimes be cheaper than carry-on bags. While this may sound counterintuitive, Spirit’s pricing structure is designed to maximize space onboard and encourage travelers to check larger items.
What Is a Personal Item, and How Is It Different?
Every Spirit Airlines passenger is allowed to bring one personal item free of charge. However, this item must fit entirely under the seat in front of you and must not exceed:
- 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
Examples of personal items include:
- Purses or handbags
- Small backpacks
- Laptop bags
- Messenger bags
If your personal item exceeds these dimensions, Spirit may classify it as a carry-on and charge you accordingly at the gate.
How to Pay for a Carry-On Bag
You have several options for adding a carry-on bag to your Spirit Airlines booking:
At Time of Booking
This is the cheapest and most convenient time to add a carry-on bag. When purchasing your ticket online, you’ll be prompted to add bags. Doing it here often saves you $20–$30 per bag.
After Booking (Before Check-In)
If you didn’t add a bag at the time of booking, you can log in to your Spirit account or use the mobile app to add one. This still offers moderate savings compared to airport prices.
At the Airport
Purchasing a carry-on bag at the airport counter is significantly more expensive. The highest cost is usually incurred if you try to board with an unpaid carry-on and are charged at the gate.
Tips for Saving Money on Spirit Carry-On Bags
Here are some tips seasoned travelers use to avoid high carry-on fees:
- Pack light: Try to fit everything into a personal item.
- Pay early: Add your bag during booking for the best price.
- Use Spirit Saver$ Club: This membership offers discounts on bags.
- Measure your bags: Make sure they comply with Spirit’s size limits to avoid reclassification and fees.
Can You Bring a Backpack as a Carry-On?
Yes, but only if the backpack fits within the carry-on size limit (22 x 18 x 10 inches). If it’s smaller than the personal item size, you may be able to bring it for free. However, many full-sized backpacks exceed the personal item dimensions and will require a carry-on fee.
Measuring Your Backpack
To determine if your backpack qualifies, measure it with all items packed inside. Include straps and outer pockets when calculating the full size.
What Can You Pack in a Carry-On Bag?
Spirit Airlines follows the TSA guidelines for carry-on contents. Here’s what’s typically allowed:
- Clothes
- Toiletries (in containers of 3.4 oz or less, inside a 1-quart bag)
- Laptops and tablets
- Books and reading material
- Headphones, chargers, and small electronics
Prohibited items include weapons, large liquids, flammable materials, and tools. Always check TSA rules before packing.
Spirit Airlines’ Baggage Policy Summary
To summarize the key takeaways regarding carry-on bags on Spirit Airlines:
- Carry-on bags are not included in the base fare.
- They must fit within 22 x 18 x 10 inches.
- You’ll need to pay a fee, with prices increasing closer to departure.
- Personal items are smaller (18 x 14 x 8 inches) and free.
- Paying early saves money and stress.
Traveling with Kids or Medical Devices
Parents traveling with children are allowed to bring a diaper bag in addition to their personal item. Likewise, passengers with medical conditions may bring medical devices (such as CPAP machines) without them counting as carry-on or personal items, as long as they comply with TSA regulations.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Spirit doesn’t offer elite status or first-class tiers, so the baggage rules are generally the same for all passengers. However, Spirit Saver$ Club members may get discounted baggage pricing and earlier boarding, which gives you better access to overhead bin space.
What Happens If You Violate the Carry-On Policy?
If you try to board with an unpaid carry-on bag or if your personal item exceeds allowed size, Spirit Airlines may charge you a penalty fee at the gate. This can be as high as $100, and you’ll be required to pay it before boarding.
Spirit is strict about enforcing these rules, and gate agents often have bag sizers to test your luggage dimensions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bring food in my carry-on?
Yes, food items are allowed as long as they meet TSA guidelines. Solid foods are fine, but liquids and gels must comply with the 3.4 oz rule.
Does Spirit weigh carry-on bags?
Spirit typically does not weigh carry-on bags, but if it appears excessively heavy or large, an agent may ask you to check it. Maximum weight for carry-ons is generally expected to be under 40 pounds.
Can I bring two carry-on bags?
No. You’re allowed one personal item for free. Any additional bag, including a carry-on, must be paid for separately.
Do carry-on fees include priority boarding?
No. Priority boarding is a separate add-on. However, purchasing a carry-on may place you in a slightly earlier boarding group.
Conclusion
Flying with Spirit Airlines can be an economical choice—but only if you plan your baggage needs carefully. Knowing the size limits, what counts as a carry-on bag, and how much you’ll need to pay will help you avoid surprises at the airport. Always measure your luggage, pay for bags in advance, and consider consolidating your belongings to save money.
