When planning your journey with Spirit Airlines, understanding the airline’s baggage fees is crucial. Known for its ultra-low-cost flights, Spirit offers budget-friendly fares but has specific baggage policies that can add to your total travel cost if not managed wisely. This guide will help you navigate Spirit Airlines baggage fees, so you can plan your trip effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.
What Are Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees?
Spirit Airlines baggage fees are charges levied for checked bags, carry-on luggage, and even oversized or overweight baggage. Unlike full-service airlines, Spirit separates the ticket cost from baggage fees, allowing passengers to pay only for what they need.
Types of Baggage Fees
1. Carry-On Baggage
Carry-on bags are not included in your basic ticket price. Spirit Airlines charges a fee for carry-ons, which vary depending on when and where you pay:
- Online at Booking: Lowest fee
- After Booking (Online): Slightly higher
- Airport Counter: Highest fee
Make sure to check their fee chart online to know the exact cost during different phases of booking.
2. Checked Baggage
Checked baggage fees also depend on when you pay and the bag’s weight. Generally, Spirit charges higher fees for heavier bags.
- Bags up to 40 lbs (18 kg): Standard fee
- Bags 41–50 lbs (18–23 kg): Additional charges
- Bags over 50 lbs (23 kg): Considerably higher fees
Spirit’s weight limit for standard checked baggage is lower than the industry standard of 50 lbs, so pack carefully to avoid extra fees.
3. Personal Item
Personal items, such as small backpacks or purses, are included in your ticket price as long as they meet size restrictions (18 x 14 x 8 inches). Items exceeding these dimensions will incur additional baggage fees.
How to Save on Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees?
Purchase Bags in Advance
Buying baggage allowances during your initial booking is the cheapest option. Adding bags later, especially at the airport, can significantly increase your costs.
Pack Light
Stick to a personal item to avoid additional fees altogether. Invest in compact packing techniques and multi-purpose clothing to save space.
Join the $9 Fare Club
Spirit Airlines’ $9 Fare Club offers discounts on baggage fees and fares. Although it requires an annual membership fee, frequent travelers can save significantly.
Weigh Your Bags at Home
Exceeding weight limits can result in hefty charges. Use a home scale to ensure your bags comply with Spirit’s policies.
Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees
Spirit Airlines has strict policies on oversized and overweight baggage:
- Bags over 62 linear inches (length + width + height) incur additional fees.
- Overweight bags have incremental charges based on their weight bracket:41–50 lbs: Small additional fee
- 51–70 lbs: Higher fee
- 71–100 lbs: Substantial fee
If your bag exceeds these limits, it might be more cost-effective to ship items separately.
Special Items and Equipment
Certain items, like sports equipment and musical instruments, may be checked but often incur special handling fees. Examples include:
- Golf Bags: Subject to overweight fees if exceeding 40 lbs.
- Musical Instruments: Can count as carry-on or checked items, depending on size.
Spirit Airlines Baggage Fee Comparison
Compared to other airlines, Spirit’s baggage fees can seem high. However, their transparent pricing model allows passengers to customize their travel costs. Travelers who plan and pack smart can still enjoy budget-friendly trips.
Tips for First-Time Flyers
- Understand the Rules: Familiarize yourself with Spirit’s baggage policies on their website.
- Measure Your Bags: Ensure all dimensions comply with Spirit’s size restrictions.
- Travel Off-Peak: Flights during off-peak seasons often have lower fees.
For more blogs: icespiceleaks
Conclusion
Spirit Airlines baggage fees are an essential consideration for travelers aiming to keep costs low. By understanding the fee structure, planning ahead, and packing efficiently, you can make the most of Spirit’s ultra-low-cost model without facing unexpected charges. Remember, a well-prepared traveler is a savvy traveler!
