Spirit Airlines Infant Policy: Fees, Age Rules & Travel Tips

Traveling with a baby can feel overwhelming, especially when flying on a low-cost airline. Understanding the Spirit Airlines Infant Policy before booking helps parents avoid surprises and plan a smoother journey. Spirit Airlines has specific age rules, seating options, and fees for infants that differ from many full-service carriers. Here’s a complete breakdown to help you travel confidently with your little one.

What Is the Spirit Airlines Infant Policy?

Under the Spirit Airlines Infant Policy, an infant is defined as a child under 2 years old at the time of travel. Parents can choose to travel with an infant as a lap child or purchase a separate seat for added comfort and safety. Each option comes with different rules and costs, so it’s important to decide what works best for your family.

Lap Infant Rules on Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines allows infants under 2 years to travel as a lap infant, meaning the baby sits on an adult’s lap during the flight. This is often the most budget-friendly option.Key lap infant rules include:

• One lap infant is allowed per adult passenger (age 15 or older)
  
  
• No separate seat is provided for the infant
  
  
• The infant must be held during taxi, takeoff, and landing
  
  

For domestic U.S. flights, Spirit typically does not charge a fare for lap infants. However, for international flights, taxes and government fees may apply even if the infant does not have a seat.

Buying a Seat for an Infant

Parents who want extra space may purchase a separate seat for their infant. When doing so, the child is treated like a regular passenger, and a ticket must be purchased.Important points:

• The infant must sit in an FAA-approved car seat
  
  
• The car seat must fit within Spirit’s seat dimensions
  
  
• Standard airfare applies (no infant discount)
  
  

Buying a seat is often recommended for longer flights, as it allows parents more comfort and keeps the infant securely seated.

Age Documentation Requirements

Spirit Airlines may require proof of age for infants, especially if the child appears close to 2 years old. Acceptable documents typically include:

• Birth certificate
  
  
• Passport (required for international travel)
  
  

If your child turns 2 during the trip, Spirit requires you to purchase a seat for the return flight.

Strollers, Car Seats, and Baby Gear

One helpful part of the Spirit Airlines Infant Policy is its allowance for baby gear. Spirit lets passengers check:

• One stroller
  
  
• One car seat
  
  

These items can usually be checked free of charge at the ticket counter or gate, which can save families money.

Onboard Amenities for Infants

Spirit Airlines is an ultra-low-cost carrier, so onboard amenities are limited. Parents should note:

• No bassinets are available
  
  
• No complimentary baby food or formula
  
  
• Diaper-changing tables are available in some aircraft lavatories
  
  

Bringing your own baby essentials is strongly recommended.

Travel Tips for Flying with an Infant on Spirit

To make your trip easier, keep these tips in mind:

• Add your infant to the reservation early
  
  
• Choose seats wisely if purchasing a separate seat
  
  
• Bring extra diapers, wipes, and formula
  
  
• Arrive early at the airport for document checks
  
  

Final Thoughts

The Spirit Airlines Infant Policy is straightforward but requires advance planning. While Spirit offers affordable travel options for families, knowing the age rules, fees, and seating policies helps avoid last-minute stress. Whether you choose a lap infant or a separate seat, being prepared ensures a safer and more comfortable flight for both you and your baby.