Spirit Airlines is known for its low-cost fares and no-frills approach to air travel. One way that the airline is able to keep its prices so low is by charging for many of the extras that other airlines offer for free, such as checked baggage. If you're planning a trip with Spirit Airlines, it's important to understand the airline's baggage policies to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Carry-On Baggage Policies

Spirit Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item, such as a purse or small backpack, on board for free. This item must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. If you want to bring a larger carry-on item, such as a roller bag, you will need to pay an additional fee. The maximum size for a carry-on bag on Spirit Airlines is 22 x 18 x 10 inches, including handles and wheels.

Checked Baggage Policies

Spirit Airlines baggage policy, and the fees vary depending on when and how you pay for your baggage. If you pay for your checked baggage online before your flight, the fee is lower than if you wait until you get to the airport. The maximum weight for a checked bag on Spirit Airlines is 40 pounds, and the maximum size is 62 linear inches (length + width + height).

It's important to note that Spirit Airlines charges a fee for each checked bag, so if you have multiple bags, the united baggage fees can add up quickly. To save money, try to pack light and only bring what you need.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Policies

If your checked bag exceeds the weight or size limits for Spirit Airlines, you will be charged an additional fee. For bags that weigh between 41 and 50 pounds, the fee is $30 if you pay online before your flight, or $40 if you wait until you get to the airport. Bags that weigh between 51 and 70 pounds will incur a fee of $55 if you pay online, or $65 at the airport.

If your bag is oversized (over 62 linear inches), you will be charged an additional fee of $100 if you pay online or $110 at the airport. Keep in mind that the fees for overweight and oversized bags are in addition to the fees for checked baggage, so they can add up quickly.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments Policies

If you're traveling with sports equipment or a musical instrument, Spirit Airlines has specific policies and fees. For sports equipment, such as golf clubs or skis, you will need to pay an additional fee of $30 if you pay online before your flight, or $40 if you wait until you get to the airport. The maximum weight for sports equipment on Spirit Airlines is 100 pounds, and the maximum size is 80 linear inches.

If you're traveling with a musical instrument, you can bring it on board as your carry-on item if it meets the size requirements for a personal item. If your instrument is too large to fit under the seat in front of you, you will need to purchase an additional seat or check it as baggage. If you check your instrument as baggage, it will be subject to the same fees and policies as other checked baggage.

Exclusions and Waivers

Spirit Airlines offers some exclusions and waivers for baggage fees in certain circumstances. For example, if you are an active duty military member traveling on orders, you can check up to two bags for free. Spirit Airlines also offers a discount for passengers who are members of the $9 Fare Club, which can help offset the cost of baggage fees.

Additionally, if you have a Spirit Airlines credit card, you may be eligible for free checked bags or a discount on baggage fees. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of your credit.