Traveling with pets can be exciting, but it also requires careful planning—especially when flying with a low-cost carrier. Spirit Airlines is known for affordable fares, but its policies around pets are specific and sometimes misunderstood. Understanding the Spirit Airlines pet policy fees in advance can help you avoid last-minute surprises and ensure a smooth journey for both you and your furry companion.
This guide breaks down pet eligibility, cabin rules, carrier requirements, costs, booking tips, and common mistakes travelers make when flying with pets on Spirit Airlines. Whether you’re flying for a short domestic trip or relocating with a small pet, this article covers everything you should know.
Does Spirit Airlines Allow Pets on Flights?
Yes, Spirit Airlines allows small household pets to travel—but only in the aircraft cabin. Pets are not permitted as checked baggage or cargo. This policy focuses on keeping animals close to their owners during the flight while maintaining safety and comfort onboard.
Eligible pets typically include:
Small dogs
Cats
Domestic birds (excluding parrots and birds of prey)
Exotic animals, reptiles, rodents, and large pets are not accepted. Travelers are encouraged to review Spirit Airlines pet rules carefully before booking, as eligibility depends on size, behavior, and carrier dimensions.
Understanding Spirit Airlines Pet Policy Fees
One of the most common concerns among pet owners is cost. Unlike some airlines that bundle pet travel into fare options, Spirit charges a separate fee for pets traveling in the cabin.
The Spirit Airlines pet policy fees are applied per pet, per flight segment, and must be paid in advance. Fees are non-refundable and apply regardless of ticket type. Since Spirit operates on an ultra-low-cost model, pet travel is treated as an optional add-on rather than a standard service.
To avoid confusion, many travelers reach out to a trusted help-center or airline support line like 1 (866) 558-3017 for guidance during booking.
Spirit Airlines Pet In-Cabin Requirements
Spirit Airlines only allows pets to travel in the cabin, and strict rules apply. Your pet must remain inside an approved carrier for the entire flight, including boarding and landing.
Key requirements include:
The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you
Only one pet carrier is allowed per passenger
The Spirit Airlines pet in cabin fee applies whether you book online or through customer support. Space for pets is limited per flight, so early booking is strongly recommended.
Approved Pet Carrier Dimensions
Carrier size is one of the most common reasons pets are denied boarding. Spirit Airlines specifies maximum dimensions to ensure carriers fit safely under the seat.
General carrier guidelines:
Soft-sided carriers are preferred
Must be leak-proof and well-ventilated
Zippers or secure closures are required
Hard-sided carriers are often discouraged due to limited under-seat clearance. If you’re unsure whether your carrier meets requirements, a help-center agent or support line such as 1 (866) 558-3017 can confirm compatibility before your travel date.
Spirit Airlines Pet Fees Explained Clearly
Many travelers confuse airline fees, so clarity is essential. Spirit Airlines pet fees are charged each way and apply per pet, not per booking. This means a round-trip flight will include two separate pet charges.
Important notes:
Fees cannot be paid with miles or vouchers
Fees are not included in base fares
Payment confirms your pet’s spot onboard
Understanding Spirit Airlines pet policy fees ahead of time helps travelers budget accurately and avoid airport delays.
Booking a Flight With a Pet on Spirit Airlines
Booking a pet on Spirit Airlines is straightforward but must be done carefully. You can add a pet during online booking or after purchase through customer support.
Steps to book:
Select your flight
Add a pet during checkout (if available)
Confirm carrier size and pet eligibility
Pay the required pet fee
Because pet spots are limited, flights can sell out of pet availability even when seats remain open. For assistance, travelers often consult a help-center or call 1 (866) 558-3017 for real-time availability.
Spirit Airlines Pet Rules You Must Follow
To maintain onboard safety and comfort, Spirit enforces several important policies. Violating these rules may result in denied boarding.
Key Spirit Airlines pet rules include:
Pets must stay inside the carrier at all times
Pets cannot sit on laps or seats
No sedation is recommended
Pets must be odor-free and non-disruptive
Aggressive behavior, excessive noise, or strong odors may cause the airline to refuse transport—even after fees are paid.
Health Documents and Vaccination Requirements
For domestic flights, Spirit Airlines does not require health certificates in most cases. However, pets must be healthy, clean, and fit to fly.
Recommended preparations:
Up-to-date vaccinations
Recent vet checkup
Identification tags
Absorbent padding inside the carrier
International travel is not permitted with pets on Spirit Airlines, so these policies apply only to domestic routes.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make When Flying With Pets
Despite clear policies, travelers often make avoidable mistakes. The most frequent issues include:
Bringing oversized carriers
Waiting too long to add a pet to the booking
Assuming pets can travel in cargo
Not reviewing Spirit Airlines pet policy fees
Avoid these errors by planning early and verifying details through a reliable help-center or by calling 1 (866) 558-3017 before your departure.
Tips for a Comfortable Flight With Your Pet
Flying can be stressful for animals, especially first-time flyers. A few simple steps can make the experience smoother.
Helpful tips:
Introduce your pet to the carrier days before travel
Avoid feeding your pet right before the flight
Choose aisle or window seats carefully
Arrive early at the airport
Knowing the Spirit Airlines pet in cabin fee and rules in advance allows you to focus on your pet’s comfort rather than last-minute logistics.
Comparing Spirit Airlines Pet Policy With Other Airlines
Spirit Airlines is more restrictive than some legacy carriers, but its pricing structure remains competitive. While some airlines allow pets in cargo, Spirit focuses solely on cabin travel for small animals.
This makes understanding Spirit Airlines pet policy fees even more important, as there are fewer alternatives once you commit to a Spirit flight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does Spirit Airlines charge to fly with a pet?
The pet fee is charged per pet, per flight segment. Fees must be paid in advance and are non-refundable.
2. Can I bring more than one pet on Spirit Airlines?
No, only one pet carrier is allowed per passenger.
3. Are emotional support animals allowed?
Spirit Airlines no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals.
4. Do pets earn miles when flying?
No, pets are not eligible for mileage or loyalty benefits.
5. Who can help me book a pet reservation?
A trusted help-center or airline support line like 1 (866) 558-3017 can assist with availability and booking questions.
Final Thoughts on Spirit Airlines Pet Policy Fees
Flying with your pet on Spirit Airlines is entirely possible when you understand the rules and costs in advance. By reviewing carrier requirements, booking early, and planning for fees, you can ensure a stress-free journey.
The Spirit Airlines pet policy fees are straightforward when explained clearly, and knowing how they work helps travelers avoid surprises at the airport. If you ever need clarification, reaching out to a knowledgeable help-center or calling 1 (866) 558-3017 can make the process much easier.
With proper preparation and attention to detail, your next flight with Spirit Airlines and your pet can be smooth, affordable, and comfortable for both of you.