Which Terminal Does Spirit Airlines Use at LAX?
Spirit Airlines operates from Terminal 5 at LAX. Terminal 5 is a well-equipped domestic terminal that serves multiple airlines and offers a variety of services, including self-check-in kiosks, baggage drop-off, dining options, and shopping areas.
What to Expect at Terminal 5:
✔️ Spirit Airlines check-in counters and kiosks
✔️ TSA security checkpoints, including TSA PreCheck lanes
✔️ Food options, from quick snacks to full meals
✔️ Duty-free and convenience stores for last-minute purchases
✔️ Easy access to ride-sharing, rental cars, and public transportation
Spirit Airlines Check-in Process at LAX
Spirit Airlines offers several check-in options, making it easy for passengers to get their boarding passes and prepare for their flights.
1. Online & Mobile Check-in (Recommended)
Spirit Airlines allows passengers to check in online or via the mobile app starting 24 hours before departure. This option is highly recommended as it helps you skip long lines at the airport.
✔️ Download a digital boarding pass
✔️ Pre-pay for checked baggage and carry-ons (cheaper than paying at the airport)
✔️ Select or upgrade your seat
2. Self-Service Kiosks at LAX
If you didn’t check in online, self-service kiosks are available at Spirit Airlines LAX Terminal (Terminal 5). These kiosks allow you to:
✔️ Print your boarding pass
✔️ Purchase baggage and seat upgrades
✔️ Modify your reservation
3. Check-in Counters
Passengers with checked baggage or those requiring special assistance can check in at the Spirit Airlines counters in Terminal 5. However, lines can be long, so it’s best to arrive early.
Tip: Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights to avoid missing your flight.
Baggage Rules for Spirit Airlines at LAX
Spirit Airlines has a strict baggage policy, and understanding the rules can help you avoid expensive fees at the airport.
1. Personal Item (Free)
✔️ Includes: A small backpack, purse, or laptop bag
✔️ Size limit: 18" x 14" x 8"
2. Carry-on Bag (Paid Extra)
✔️ Size limit: 22" x 18" x 10"
✔️ Must fit in the overhead bin
✔️ Tip: It’s cheaper to purchase carry-on baggage online rather than at the airport
3. Checked Baggage (Paid Extra)
✔️ Weight limit: 40 lbs per bag
✔️ Overweight baggage fees apply for bags over 40 lbs
Pro Tip: Pay for your luggage online in advance to save money, as airport baggage fees are much higher.
Security Screening at Spirit Airlines LAX Terminal
After checking in, passengers must go through TSA security screening. Security lines at Spirit Airlines LAX Terminal can be long, especially during peak hours.
How to Speed Up the Security Process:
✔️ Have your boarding pass and ID ready
✔️ Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids (bottles must be 3.4 ounces or less)
✔️ Remove laptops and large electronics before screening
✔️ Wear easy-to-remove shoes
TSA PreCheck at LAX
If you have TSA PreCheck, you can use the dedicated PreCheck lane, allowing you to keep your shoes on and skip removing electronics or liquids during screening.
Food and Shopping at Spirit Airlines LAX Terminal
Once you clear security, you’ll find plenty of dining and shopping options inside Terminal 5.
Dining Options at Terminal 5
?️ Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf – Great for coffee and breakfast snacks
?️ Lemonade – Fresh and healthy meal options
?️ Rock & Brews – Burgers, sandwiches, and craft beer
?️ Farmers Market To Go – Grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and snacks
Shopping Options at Terminal 5
?️ Hudson News – Magazines, snacks, and travel essentials
?️ DFS Duty-Free – Tax-free shopping for international travelers
?️ iStore – Tech accessories, chargers, and headphones
If you forgot headphones, phone chargers, or snacks, these stores have you covered before your flight.
Boarding Process for Spirit Airlines at LAX
Spirit Airlines uses a zone-based boarding system. Passengers will be called to board in groups, so be ready at the gate when your zone is announced.
Boarding Tips:
✔️ Have your boarding pass ready (printed or digital)
✔️ Listen for announcements to know when your group is boarding
✔️ Make sure your carry-on meets Spirit’s size limits
✔️ Charge your phone and devices before boarding (Spirit Airlines planes don’t have power outlets)
Transportation to and from Spirit Airlines LAX Terminal
Once you arrive at Spirit Airlines LAX Terminal, you’ll need a way to get to your destination. Here are the best transportation options:
1. Ride-Sharing Services (Uber & Lyft)
? Uber and Lyft pick up at the LAX-it lot – passengers must take a free shuttle from Terminal 5 to reach the ride-share area.
2. Taxis
? Official taxis are available outside Terminal 5 with flat-rate fares to downtown Los Angeles and surrounding areas.
3. Rental Cars
? LAX has a Rental Car Center, accessible via shuttle from Terminal 5.
✔️ Companies include Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and more.
4. Public Transportation
? Metro Green Line Shuttle connects LAX to the Los Angeles Metro system.
? Local buses provide affordable transportation to different parts of LA.
Top Travel Tips for Spirit Airlines Passengers at LAX
✔️ Check in online to save time and avoid long lines.
✔️ Arrive early (2 hours for domestic flights, 3 hours for international).
✔️ Know Spirit Airlines' baggage fees to avoid surprise charges.
✔️ Bring your own snacks and drinks (Spirit Airlines doesn’t offer free food).
✔️ Use charging stations before boarding, as Spirit Airlines planes don’t have power outlets.
✔️ Track your flight status using the Spirit Airlines app for real-time updates.
Final Thoughts on Spirit Airlines at LAX
Flying with Spirit Airlines LAX Terminal can be a smooth and hassle-free experience with the right preparation. By checking in early, understanding the baggage rules, arriving on time, and utilizing airport amenities, you can ensure a stress-free journey through LAX.
Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, this guide will help you navigate Spirit Airlines LAX Terminal like a pro. Safe travels!
