What Happens If Spirit Airlines Bag Exceeds Limit?

Planning a Budget Trip? Know This About Spirit Airlines First

If you’re planning a trip with Spirit Airlines, you're likely someone who loves saving money. That’s what Spirit is all about—low base fares, pay only for what you need. But before you pack your bags and rush to the airport, there’s one thing you really need to understand: the Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy.

It’s not just about how many bags you bring—it’s about how big and how heavy they are. If your bag exceeds the allowed limit, you may end up paying more than the cost of your flight! So let’s break down what actually happens if your bag goes over and how you can avoid those extra fees.

Understanding the Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy

The Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy is designed to keep fares low and travel light. Spirit lets you travel with a personal item (like a small backpack or purse) for free. But anything bigger than that—like a carry-on or checked bag—comes with an extra charges.

Baggage Allowance Basics

• Personal Item: Included for free (must fit under the seat).

• Carry-On Bag: Additional fee applies, must fit in the overhead bin.

• Checked Bag: Additional fee, with strict weight and size limits.

The standard baggage allowance follows this rule:

• Max weight: 40 lbs (for checked bags)

• Max size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)

What If Your Spirit Airlines Bag Exceeds Limit?

Now, here’s the key part. If your bag exceeds Spirit's baggage allowance, you will be charged additional fees—on top of what you already paid for baggage. And it’s not cheap.

Overweight Fees

If your checked bag weighs more than 40 lbs, expect to pay:

• 41–50 lbs: $79 extra

• 51–70 lbs: $125 extra

• 71–100 lbs: $150 extra
  (Prices may vary by route and booking date)

Oversize Fees

If your bag’s dimensions exceed 62 inches, you'll be charged:

• 63–80 inches: $150 extra

• Anything over 80 inches? Not allowed.

These are fees per bag, per flight. So if you're flying roundtrip with an overweight bag, you're paying double!

Why Spirit Airlines Is So Strict About Baggage

Let’s be real. Budget airlines like Spirit Airlines don’t make a lot of profit from ticket sales alone. Their business model relies on offering rock-bottom fares and charging for extras, like bags, seat selection, and snacks. That’s why their baggage policy and fees are so clearly defined—and strictly enforced.

If your bag exceeds the limit at the airport, they’ll weigh and measure it at the counter or gate. And yes, you will have to pay on the spot. So prepare in advance.

How to Avoid Baggage Overage Fees

Weigh Your Bag at Home

Use a luggage scale or even a regular bathroom scale to make sure your checked bag stays under 40 lbs. It's a small step that can save you big.

Measure Your Bag

Use a tape measure to check the total size. Don’t forget to include wheels and handles. Oversize bags get flagged quickly at check-in.

Pay for Bags Online

Spirit lets you pay for bags when booking or checking in online—it’s always cheaper than paying at the airport. You can even add baggage through their customer service line: +1-855-662-4577

Pack Smart

Pack light and use travel-sized items. Consider wearing heavier clothing (like jackets) on the plane to reduce your bag’s weight.

Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy vs Other Airlines

Compared to legacy airlines, Spirit Airlines offers a very different experience. While others include carry-on or checked baggage in the ticket price, Spirit gives you the option to pay only for what you need.

That said, if you don’t follow the baggage policy and fees, you could end up paying more than a standard airline. That’s why understanding and respecting their baggage allowance is so important.

When It’s Worth Paying Extra

Sometimes paying for that extra baggage is worth it—especially if you’re traveling for a special event, long vacation, or need equipment (like musical instruments or sporting gear).

You can always contact Spirit Airlines support at +1-855-662-4577 to ask about special baggage needs or request pre-approval for unique items.

What Happens at the Airport If You Go Over the Limit

Let’s say you arrive at the airport and your bag is overweight or too large. What can you expect?

Additional Fees at Check-In

You’ll be directed to the check-in desk. They’ll weigh and measure your bag. If it exceeds the allowance, you’ll be charged according to the Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy—and yes, you’ll need to pay before they tag your bag.

Can You Remove Items to Avoid the Fee?

Sometimes, yes. If you can quickly take something out to get under the weight limit, they may allow it. But you must fit that item in your personal item or carry-on (if you have one paid for). Otherwise, you’re stuck paying the fee.

FAQs About Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy and Fees

Q1: What is Spirit Airlines' baggage weight limit for checked bags?

A: Spirit allows checked bags up to 40 lbs. Bags weighing more will incur overweight fees ranging from $79 to $150 depending on the weight.

Q2: Can I bring a carry-on for free on Spirit Airlines?

A: No. Only a personal item is free. Carry-ons must be paid for as per Spirit's baggage policy.

Q3: How strict is Spirit Airlines with baggage size?

A: Very strict. Bags over the size or weight limit will face additional fees. Always measure and weigh your luggage beforehand.

Q4: Can I avoid extra baggage charges on Spirit Airlines?

A: Yes! Weigh your bags at home, pack light, pay for baggage online early, and stay within the baggage allowance.

Q5: What should I do if I packed too much?

A: Consider repacking before reaching the airport. If needed, call +1-855-662-4577 for help or advice on adding extra baggage in advance.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Extra Fees Catch You Off Guard

Traveling with Spirit Airlines can be an incredibly affordable experience—if you play by the rules. Their low fares are great, but those savings can disappear fast if your bag exceeds the limit. The Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy is clear: pack smart, weigh your bags, and plan ahead.

If your bag is too heavy or too large, you’ll pay a steep price. And remember, these fees are per bag, per direction. So double-check everything before you go, and use the tips above to avoid a travel-day headache.

Stick to the guidelines, and you’ll fly easy—without busting your budget. Happy travels!