Does Spirit Airlines Offer Free Bags for Military?
Contents
Introduction
As a member of the military, traveling can be a necessity for your job, training, and personal life. However, with the various costs associated with air travel, packing can be a significant headache. One question that frequently arises is: Does Spirit Airlines offer free bags for military personnel?
Spirit Airlines Bag Policy
To better understand whether Spirit Airlines offers free bags for military, let’s start by reviewing their standard baggage policy. Here’s what you need to know:
- First Checked Bag: Spirit charges $28-$35 per bag, depending on your route.
- Second Checked Bag: Additional checked bags can be purchased for $40-$50.
- Carry-on Bags: One personal item (8.5 inches tall and 14.5 inches wide) and one additional carry-on bag (14 inches tall and 24 inches wide) are permitted, but additional fees apply for both bags.
- Overweight Bags: Bags exceeding 50 lbs incur an extra fee.
- Sports Equipment Bags: Special items like bikes, surfboards, or skateboards can be checked, but require prior approval and additional fees.
Military Benefits at Spirit Airlines
Now, let’s answer the question at hand. Does Spirit Airlines offer free bags for military personnel?
- Mandatory Item: Spirit Airlines has partnered with the Veterans Advantage (VA) to offer benefits to military members and veterans. This means that certain benefits, including baggage waivers, are now available for military personnel flying with Spirit.
- Baggage Waiver: Active and retired military members can earn a complimentary checked bag, avoiding the additional checked bag fee of $28-$35 per bag.
Earning Baggage Waiver at Spirit Airlines
To earn a baggage waiver, follow these steps:
- VA Card Number: Obtain your VA Card Number, which can be found on your VA Membership Card or email.
- Spirit Airlines Website: Log in to your Spirit Airlines account, and then click on the "Redeem Awards" or "My Wallet" tab.
- Apply Voucher: Under the "Vouchers" section, apply the "VA Mandatory Item" voucher.
- Verify Details: Verify your VA Card Number, name, and flight information.
- Confirmation: Once confirmed, your complimentary checked bag is available on your next flight.
Exceptions and Rules
Important Notes:
- Military Orders: You must present valid military orders or a discharge paper at check-in to verify your military status.
- VA Membership Card: To earn the baggage waiver, you must hold a VA Membership Card with your valid military ID and government-issued ID.
- Limited Time Only: Vouchers are non-transferable and valid only for specific travel dates. Be sure to check Spirit’s website for the latest travel periods.
- Not Transferable: Your baggage waiver is non-transferable, so you must use the voucher yourself. Spirit Airlines does not permit travel on another’s behalf using these vouchers.
Conclusion
In summary, yes, Spirit Airlines offers a complimentary checked bag for military personnel, including active duty members and retirees. However, to redeem this benefit, you’ll need to follow the process outlined above and ensure you have your VA Card Number and mandatory item voucher in hand.
Table: Spirit Airlines Baggage Fees (1st Checked Bag)
| Route | 1st Checked Bag Fee | 2nd Checked Bag Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic | $28 | $40-$50 |
| International | $35 | $40-$50 |
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Are there any specific travel requirements for military members at Spirit Airlines?
- No, there are no additional travel requirements.
- Can I use my military baggage waiver on international flights?
- Yes, your military baggage waiver applies to all Spirit Airlines routes, including international flights.
Resources:
- Spirit Airlines Baggage Policy: https://www.spirit.com/baggage/policy/
- Veterans Advantage: https://www.veteransadvantage.com/
- Spirit Airlines Military Benefits: https://www.spirit.com/military
