1. Baggage Policy

Spirit Airlines operates on an a la carte pricing model, meaning the base fare covers only your seat and a small personal item. Everything else, including carry-on and checked baggage, incurs additional fees.

Personal Item

• Dimensions: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (must fit under the seat)
• Free of charge

Carry-On Bag

• Dimensions: 22 x 18 x 10 inches
• Fees vary depending on route, booking time, and membership status

Checked Bags

• Maximum weight: 40 lbs (18.1 kg)
• Size limit: 62 linear inches (L + W + H)
• Overweight or oversized bags incur significant extra charges

Tips to Save

• Purchase baggage online during booking for the lowest prices
• Join the $9 Fare Club for discounted baggage fees

2. Extra Baggage Policy

Passengers requiring more than one checked bag or with oversized/overweight luggage must pay additional fees:

• 41–50 lbs: $79–$100
• 51–70 lbs: $100–$150
• 71–100 lbs: $150+
• Oversized (63–80 linear inches): $100

Prohibited Items:

• Explosives, flammable liquids, and lithium batteries not in devices are not allowed in checked baggage.

3. Carry-On Allowances and Restrictions

Spirit strictly enforces its carry-on policy. Passengers should be mindful to avoid last-minute fees at the gate.

Permissible Items

• Small backpacks, purses, or laptop bags
• Baby food, breast pumps
• Assistive devices like crutches or wheelchairs

Prohibited Items

• Weapons, sharp objects
• Flammable materials
• Liquids over 3.4 ounces (100 ml) not in a clear quart-sized bag

4. Check-In and Check-Out Policy

Spirit encourages passengers to check in online:

Online Check-In:

• Opens 24 hours before departure
• Closes 1 hour before domestic flights, 2 hours for international

Airport Check-In:

• Kiosks available
• Additional fees apply for printing boarding passes at the airport

Check-Out

• Upon arrival, no formal check-out is needed, but passengers are advised to disembark quickly to maintain schedule.

5. Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Spirit accepts children aged 5–14 years traveling alone only on direct domestic flights.

Unaccompanied Minor Fee

• $100 each way

Process

• Parent/guardian must remain at the gate until flight departs
• Airline personnel escort the child on and off the plane
• Only pre-approved guardians may pick up the child

Not Allowed For:

• International flights
• Connecting flights

6. Cancellation Policy

Spirit’s ultra-low-cost model means cancellations may result in fees unless within a short window.

Within 24 Hours of Booking

• Full refund allowed if the flight is 7+ days away

After 24 Hours

• Cancellation fees apply (usually $69–$119)
• Remaining balance issued as a reservation credit

Flight Flex Option

• Optional add-on that allows a one-time change without paying a modification fee

7. Refund Policy

Refunds are limited and generally issued as future travel credits unless canceled within 24 hours.

Eligible for Full Refund:

• Flights canceled within 24 hours of booking
• Flights canceled by Spirit

Non-Refundable Tickets:

• Typically issued as reservation credits valid for 90 days

How to Request Refunds:

• Through Spirit’s website or customer service

8. Date Change / Rebooking Policy

Changing flight dates is allowed with applicable fees:

Fees (as of latest update):

• $69–$119 depending on notice period and route

Flight Flex Advantage:

• One-time date or time change without additional fee (fare differences still apply)

9. Pet Policy

Spirit allows small domestic pets on board.

Permitted Animals:

• Cats, dogs, small household birds, and rabbits

Pet Travel Requirements:

• Must remain in approved carrier under the seat
• Combined weight of pet + carrier: Max 40 lbs
• Fee: $125 per pet, per flight

Not Allowed For:

• International flights
• Cargo hold travel (no pet transport in cargo)

10. Visa and Travel Documentation Policy

While Spirit does not issue visas, travelers are responsible for securing valid documentation.

Domestic Flights

• Government-issued photo ID required

International Flights

• Passport + applicable visas
• Electronic Travel Authorization (if applicable)

Denied Boarding Due to Invalid Documents

• No refunds provided if the traveler lacks necessary documents

11. Major Routes and Destinations

Spirit Airlines operates over 500 daily flights to more than 80 destinations.

United States

• Major hubs: Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Orlando (MCO), Las Vegas (LAS), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)

Popular Domestic Routes:

• New York to Fort Lauderdale
• Chicago to Las Vegas
• Atlanta to Los Angeles

International Destinations:

• Latin America & Caribbean: Cancun, San Juan, Santo Domingo, Lima, Bogotá, and more

12. In-Flight Experience and Seating Policy

Spirit’s basic offering is the “Bare Fare,” but passengers can upgrade amenities.

Seat Selection

• Random seat assignment included
• Pay extra for choosing seats, Big Front Seats, or extra legroom

Food & Beverage

• Buy-on-board only (credit/debit cards accepted)

Entertainment

• No screens or Wi-Fi on most aircraft

13. Customer Support and Special Assistance

Special Needs Requests:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Portable oxygen concentrators
• Service animals allowed with documentation

Customer Service

• Available via phone, chat, and social media
• No in-person ticket offices

14. Travel Credit & Vouchers

Credits are issued in the following scenarios:

• Flight cancellations
• Voluntary flight changes

Validity:

• Typically 90 days from the date of issue

Conclusion

Spirit Airlines offers competitive pricing, especially for budget-conscious travelers. However, understanding their policies is key to a hassle-free experience. From carry-on limits to pet fees and cancellation options, this guide provides a one-stop reference for planning your trip with Spirit. Always check their official website for the latest updates and fees before booking.