Spirit Airlines Carry on

[msr709]

I've been reading the posts about this and I'm getting a little nervous. I just booked a flight to Vegas (from Philly) and I have this bag http://www.ebags.com/product/ricardo-beverly-hills/mariposa-16-spinner-wheeled-tote/240349?productid=10205908 as my carry on. I have severe back problems so I always travel with a bag like this so I don't have to reach up to the overhead bins, I always stow it in front of me. The measurements (according to the website are 16"x"13.5x"6.5 which seems to be within the allowance of Spirit's policy but people are saying that backpacks don't fit so I'm totally confused. This bag is bigger than a backpack but its very short. I've paid for my seat and don't mind paying the carry on fee but I can't put my bag in the overhead bin anyway, so it seems like a waste of $. I've always counted on the opinion of these forums so I'd appreciate any input. TIA

 

[Lewisc]

As per a review via your link:

I bought this to have a spinner that fit under the airlines seats.. the wheels actually added to the overall 16 " advertised so what larger than I am looking for.."

Spirit specifically says:

Personal item (e.g. purse, small backpack, etc.) dimensions must not exceed 16 x 14 x 12 inches (40 x 35 x 30 cm) including handles and wheels.

The bag is oversized.

 

[elaine amj]

IMO Spirit seats seem smaller than other airlines.

When I flew Spirit, I checked my bag because it was cheaper than a carry on.

 

[LBIJim]

IMO Spirit seats seem smaller than other airlines.

When I flew Spirit, I checked my bag because it was cheaper than a carry on.

The seats themselves are the same size as any other airline flying the same types of planes. The pitch (distance between rows, i.e. legroom) is less on Spririt planes.

I think they purposely charge less for checked bags to discourage people from carrying too much stuff aboard.

Jim

 

[msr709]

Thank you all for your replies. I guess I'm off looking for a tote that will fit under the seat. Thanks!

 

[OrangeCountyCommuter]

The luggage industry continues to do this They Measure just the bag and claim "it's carry on size" but the airlines include the wheels and handles so after you buy you discover it's not REALLY carry on size.

 

[Lewisc]

The luggage industry continues to do this They Measure just the bag and claim "it's carry on size" but the airlines include the wheels and handles so after you buy you discover it's not REALLY carry on size.

I'd always be safe and buy luggage which meets the size requirements including wheels and handles. I think the luggage industry does what they do because customers want the largest possible bag for their money.

Some airlines specifically include wheels and handles, a few specifically exclude wheels and handles and the rest (most of them?) are silent on the issue. Luggage companies frequently tell you to check with your airline. That's they way the cover themselves.

 

[bianca]

My daughters and I all carry this style of bag (although made by Ellen Tracy if you want to compare) and fly Spirit frequently. I can assure you that our bags easily fit into their "demo box" that is available at both check-in and at the boarding gate. Since it fits with ease, we've never had a problem.

 

[Lewisc]

Spirit loves their fees. Spirit thinks their customers only look for a low base fare. Spirit doesn't think goodwill helps business. I'd measure whatever bag I'm going to use.

Your oversized bag fits in the sizing bin. Great. What happens when Spirit discovers their error and orders new bins. Your under seat bag measure too big. The gate charge for a bin bag is $100. How much do you think it would cost to replace the existing bins?