A Complete Guide to Carry-On Luggage Size on Spirit Airlines
If you’re planning a trip with Spirit Airlines, one of the most important things to know before heading to the airport is the airline’s carry-on luggage policy. Known for its ultra-low-cost fares, Spirit Airlines operates a little differently from traditional carriers when it comes to baggage. Understanding carry-on luggage size and rules can help you avoid extra fees and make your travel experience smoother.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about carry on luggage size spirit air, what’s included in your ticket, and some useful packing tips to stay within limits.
What Is a Carry-On Bag with Spirit Airlines?
A carry-on bag is different from a personal item. On Spirit Airlines, only one personal item is included for free with your ticket. Carry-on bags are considered optional add-ons and come with an additional fee.
Carry-On Bag Size Limit:
The maximum size for a carry-on bag on Spirit Airlines is:
22 x 18 x 10 inches
(56 x 46 x 25 cm)
Including handles and wheels
This bag must fit into the overhead bin and be within the above dimensions to qualify as carry-on. Any bag exceeding these limits will need to be checked and could incur additional charges.
What About Personal Items?
All travelers are allowed one free personal item included in their base fare. This could be:
A small backpack
A purse
A laptop bag
Personal Item Size Limit:
18 x 14 x 8 inches
(45 x 35 x 20 cm)
This item must fit under the seat in front of you. Bringing a larger item could result in it being treated as a carry-on bag, which comes with a fee.
Why Knowing the Size Matters
Spirit Airlines is a low-cost carrier, which means ticket prices are low, but nearly everything beyond the seat itself comes at an extra cost—including carry-on bags.
At the gate, Spirit Airlines checks carry-on sizes strictly. If your bag is too large to qualify as a personal item or is not prepaid as a carry-on, you could be charged a higher gate fee (which is much more expensive than paying in advance online).
Avoid surprise charges by measuring your bag before heading to the airport.
Packing Tips to Stay Within Spirit’s Carry-On Size Limit
Here are a few tips to make the most of your Spirit Airlines carry-on allowance:
1. Use a Soft-Sided Bag
Soft-sided luggage or duffel bags are easier to squeeze into the overhead bin or size checker, especially if slightly overstuffed.
2. Pack Light and Smart
Stick to essentials, roll your clothes, and use packing cubes to compress space.
3. Wear Bulkier Items
If you're traveling somewhere cold, wear your jacket or boots instead of packing them.
4. Measure Before You Go
Check the exact dimensions of your bag including wheels and handles. A bag marketed as "carry-on" may still exceed Spirit’s smaller limits.
5. Prepay for Bags
If you know you’ll need more than a personal item, it’s much cheaper to pay for a carry-on bag while booking online than to do it at the airport.
Who Should Bring a Carry-On on Spirit Airlines?
A carry-on is ideal if you:
Need more than just a personal item for your trip
Want to avoid checked baggage fees
Prefer to keep your bag with you during the flight
Just keep in mind, you’ll need to pay a fee for your carry-on in most fare classes. Spirit’s Bundle It Combo or Flight Flex options may also include a carry-on in the package, so check your ticket details carefully.
Final Thoughts
Flying with Spirit Airlines is a great way to save money, especially if you pack light. But being aware of their strict baggage policies—especially regarding carry-on luggage size—is key to avoiding last-minute surprises or fees.
To recap, your carry-on must be no larger than 22 x 18 x 10 inches, and your free personal item must fit under the seat and stay within 18 x 14 x 8 inches. If you need the extra space, prepaying for a carry-on is the smartest way to go.
