How Strict Spirit Airlines Carry-on Size? 2025 Update

Ready to kick off your flight with Spirit Airlines but unsure about carry-on rules?

Spirit Airlines states that a carry-on bag must not exceed 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 46 x 25 cm), including handles and wheels.

If your bag exceeds these dimensions, it will be counted as a checked bag.

You can also bring one personal item free of charge, as long as it fits under the seat in front of you.

In this detailed post, I will cover everything you need to know about Spirit Airlines carry-on size rules and restrictions, along with answers to some of common frequently asked questions.

Let’s dive right in.

Table of Contents

How Strict Is Spirit on Carry-On Bag Size?

Spirit Airlines allows the following items on board:

One carry-on bag: 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 46 x 25 cm)
One personal item: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm)

Spirit Airlines is fairly strict about its carry-on size limits, so there is a high chance that your carry-on bag will be placed in the sizer at the airport.

If it doesn’t fit, you will have to check it and pay additional baggage charges.

Spirit Airlines answer on X formerly Twitter

Spirit Airlines Liquid Rules

Like most airlines, Spirit Airlines follows the TSA 3-1-1 rule:

You can bring one quart sized bag of liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on.
Liquids must be placed in a resealable, transparent bag for easy inspection by TSA agents.
Each container must not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 ml).

For more details on traveling with liquids, aerosols, and gels, check the TSA website or this detailed post.

Spirit is a great airline to fly if you don’t have a lot of bags

What If My Carry-On Exceeds Spirit Size Limits?

If your hand luggage exceeds the allowed size by an inch or two, you might still get away with it.

If Spirit Airlines checks your bag and finds it oversized, you will have to pay additional fees.

If your bag is above the size limits, switch to a smaller suitcase or opt for checked luggage to avoid unexpected charges.

Here is what happened to Amanda.

She is not happy because the airline made her spend half of her birthday money for a carry-on bag that is 1 inch larger.

I don’t think they are going to refund her.

Do Spirit Airlines Check Carry-on Dimensions?

There is a strong chance that Spirit Airlines will examine your carry-on size at the airport check in counter.

The staff may ask you to place your bag in the sizer to ensure it fits in the overhead compartment.

Since many travelers attempt to bring oversized bags into the cabin, Spirit tends to be stricter than other airlines in enforcing its size restrictions.

Just like Frontier Airlines, they have strict rules because of the limited storage space on their planes and the extra revenue they get from baggage fees.

Where to Place My Carry-On On Board?

If you are paying for a carry-on bag, you can place it in the overhead compartment.

A small personal in the other hand must fit under the seat in front of you.

Spirit Airlines does not have a specified weight limit for carry-on bags, but choosing a lightweight bag can help you avoid any overweight baggage fees.

You might also like:

Spirit Airlines Carry-on Fees

Spirit Airlines charges carry-on baggage fees that vary depending on when and how you pay:

Payment Time	Carry-On Bag Fee
During Booking (Spirit.com)	$37 – $44
Before Online Check-In	$44 – $47
During Online Check-In	$47 – $54
At the Airport Counter	$54 – $60
At the Gate	$60 – $65

If you are a $9 Fare Club member, you can purchase your carry-on allowance for $28.

A Glance On Spirit Checked Baggage

Spirit Airlines Checked Baggage Policy

If you need more space, you can check in additional luggage.

Spirit Airlines checked baggage fees depend on your flight route, travel time, and ticket type.

You can use the Spirit Bag-O-Tron tool to check the exact baggage prices for your flight.

Checked Baggage Allowance:

Maximum weight per bag: 40 lbs (18 kg)
Maximum overall dimensions: 62 linear inches (height + width + depth)
You can check up to five bags

Remember also to not place any valuable or expensive items inside our check baggage, to avoid any possible damage or even losing the item.

The earlier you pay for checked baggage, the cheaper it is.

Buying your allowance during your initial booking is the most cost effective option.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees

Spirit Airlines allows overweight and oversized luggage up to 100 lbs (45 kg) and 80 linear inches but charges additional fees:

41 – 50 lbs (18 – 23 kg): +$30
51 – 70 lbs (23 – 32 kg): +$55
71 – 100 lbs (32 – 45 kg): +$100

Paying for your baggage in advance is always cheaper than doing so at the airport.

Final Thoughts

While Spirit Airlines promotes itself as a budget airline, additional charges for luggage and seat selection can quickly add up.

To avoid unexpected fees, it’s essential to plan your baggage strategy ahead of time and choose the right options for your travel needs.

Checking your bag size before heading to the airport can save you from last minute charges.

I hope this helps.

Happy travels.

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Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.