Traveling with Spirit Airlines? You’re probably drawn in by their low ticket prices—and who wouldn’t be? Spirit is known for offering ultra-low-cost fares, which can be a great deal if you’re traveling light. However, if you’re planning to check a bag, it’s important to understand how Spirit Airlines baggage fees work so you don’t end up paying more than you expected.
Let’s walk through what you can expect, and more importantly, how to save money on checked luggage when flying with Spirit.
Understanding Spirit’s Baggage Policy
Spirit’s pricing structure is very different from traditional airlines. Your base fare includes only one personal item—something small that fits under the seat in front of you, like a purse or a laptop bag. Anything beyond that, including carry-on bags and checked luggage, will cost extra.
The price for a checked bag can vary depending on several factors:
- When you purchase it (during booking, online check-in, or at the airport)
- Your travel route
- Whether you’re part of Spirit’s Saver$ Club
- The size and weight of your bag
The earlier you add your luggage, the cheaper it will be. Waiting until you’re at the airport can result in much higher fees—sometimes almost double the online rate.
Typical Checked Bag Fees
While fees can change depending on your route and travel time, here’s a general idea:
- $30 to $50 for the first checked bag at the time of booking
- $45 to $60 at online check-in
- $65+ at the airport counter
- At the gate: Usually prohibited, however $75 to $99 if permitted
These costs are only applicable if your bag weighs less than forty pounds (18 kg). Spirit is more stringent than most airlines; luggage weighing between 41 and 50 pounds will cost an additional $79, and depending on the size, overweight bags might cost up to $150.
How to Save on Spirit Airlines Checked Luggage
- Here are a few easy strategies to prevent overspending:
- The cheapest time to add luggage is when you pay for it when you make your reservation.
- Weigh your bags at home. By adhering to the weight restriction, you can prevent expensive overweight fees.
- Pack effectively: To cut down on the need for more luggage, think about utilizing packing cubes or compression packs.
- Become a member of the Saver$ Club to receive discounts on luggage and other costs if you frequently travel with Spirit.
Think about bundles: Spirit provides fare bundles (like as “Bundle It”) that include priority boarding, seat selection, and a checked bag for a single total cost, which can be less expensive than paying for each item separately.
Final Thoughts
Flying Spirit can be a great way to save money—if you plan ahead. Checked bag fees can sneak up on you if you’re not careful, but with a little preparation, you can keep your travel costs low. Always book luggage early, keep bags light, and explore membership or bundle options if you’re a frequent flyer. By knowing how Spirit Airlines baggage fees work and planning your luggage strategy in advance, you’ll avoid surprises at the airport—and travel smarter without breaking the bank.
