Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy Updates: What Flyers Must Know Before Boarding
Q1: Does a small purse or crossbody bag count as an extra item on Spirit?
A1: Yes. Spirit strictly limits unpaid travelers to one personal item total. A small purse, fanny pack, or camera bag must fit completely inside your primary backpack or personal bag before you scan your boarding pass. Wearing a crossbody bag alongside a backpack will cause an agent to stop you at the gate.
Q2: What happens if my backpack fits under the seat but does not fit the gate sizer?
A2: The gate sizer is the legal baseline. Even if your bag could theoretically squeeze under certain cabin seats, gate agents rely entirely on the airport sizer box. If the bag cannot fit inside the sizer during boarding, it is classified as oversized, and you will be required to pay the gate carry-on fee.
Q3: Are medical devices and infant diaper bags exempt from Spirit's personal item limit?
A3: Yes. In compliance with FAA regulations, approved medical devices (such as CPAP machines) and diaper bags for traveling infants do not count toward your personal item allowance. These items may be brought aboard in addition to your single free personal item without extra fees.
Q4: Can I sit in an exit row with a personal item under the seat?
A4: No. Federal safety regulations mandate that all luggage must be stowed in the overhead bins for passengers seated in emergency exit rows during taxi, takeoff, and landing. If you sit in an exit row, flight attendants will require you to place your personal item in an overhead bin, though you will not be charged extra if it meets the 18 x 14 x 8 standard.