Sun Country Airlines: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction

Sun Country Airlines is a budget-friendly, leisure-focused airline based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Known for its affordable fares and vacation-friendly destinations, Sun Country primarily serves domestic U.S. routes, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. The airline follows a low-cost carrier model, where passengers can customize their travel experience by selecting paid add-ons such as checked baggage, carry-on luggage, and seat selection.

Understanding Sun Country Airlines’ baggage policies is crucial for avoiding unexpected fees at the airport. This guide breaks down their carry-on and checked baggage allowances, fees, and size restrictions, helping you plan your trip efficiently.

Sun Country Airlines Overview

1. Sun Country Airlines Baggage Policy Overview

Unlike major airlines that offer free carry-on and checked baggage, Sun Country Airlines charges for most luggage beyond a single free personal item. Travelers can pre-purchase baggage online at a lower cost or pay higher fees at the airport.

Personal Item (Free Allowance)

• Each passenger is allowed one free personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack.
• Size Limit: Must fit under the seat and not exceed 17” x 13” x 9” (43 cm x 33 cm x 22 cm).
• Fee: Free (included in the ticket price).

Carry-On Bag (Paid Add-On)

• Size Limit: Carry-on bags must fit in the overhead bin and not exceed 24” x 16” x 11” (61 cm x 40.6 cm x 28 cm), including wheels and handles.
• Weight Limit: Sun Country does not have a strict carry-on weight limit, but the bag must be light enough for the passenger to lift into the overhead bin without assistance.
• Fee:
  • $30–$45 per segment if purchased online (varies by route and demand).
  • $50+ if purchased at the airport.

Checked Baggage (Paid Add-On)

• Size Limit: Checked bags must not exceed 62 linear inches (157 cm) (length + width + height).
• Weight Limit: Maximum weight 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag.
• Number of Bags Allowed: Passengers can check up to 2 bags per person.
• Fee:
  • First Checked Bag: $30–$45 if pre-purchased online, $50+ at the airport.
  • Second Checked Bag: $40–$55 online, $60+ at the airport.
  • Overweight Bags (51–70 lbs): Additional $20–$100 fee per bag.
  • Oversized Bags (over 62 linear inches): $100+ fee applies.

2. Special Baggage Policies

Sun Country Airlines allows sporting equipment, musical instruments, and other special items, but additional fees may apply depending on size and weight.

• Sports Equipment (Golf Clubs, Skis, Snowboards, Fishing Gear)
  • Treated as a standard checked bag if within size and weight limits.
  • Fees range from $30–$100, depending on weight.
• Surfboards & Bikes
  • Must be properly packed in a hard case and are subject to oversized baggage fees of $100+.
• Musical Instruments
  • Can be carried on if they fit within carry-on size limits.
  • Larger instruments must be checked as baggage, subject to standard size and overweight fees.

3. How to Save on Sun Country Baggage Fees

Sun Country Airlines offers multiple ways to save on baggage fees and avoid surprises at the airport:

✔ Pre-Purchase Bags Online – Sun Country offers lower baggage fees when booked in advance via their website or mobile app.
✔ Travel Light – If possible, bring only a personal item to avoid carry-on or checked baggage fees.
✔ Distribute Weight – Keep checked bags under 50 lbs to prevent overweight charges.
✔ Weigh Your Bags Before the Airport – A portable luggage scale can help you avoid extra fees.

4. Carry-On vs. Checked Bag: Which One Should You Choose?

To determine whether you should purchase a carry-on or checked bag, consider the following:

• Choose a Carry-On If:
  • You need quick access to your belongings after landing.
  • You’re traveling for a short trip and can fit essentials into a smaller suitcase.
  • You don’t mind paying $30–$45 for overhead bin space.
• Choose Checked Baggage If:
  • You’re packing heavier items (over 50 lbs) that wouldn’t meet carry-on limits.
  • You prefer not to deal with carrying luggage through the airport.
  • You’re bringing sports equipment, musical instruments, or other oversized items.

5. Sun Country Airlines Seat Selection & Boarding Process

Sun Country Airlines does not assign seats for free, but passengers can purchase seat selection for an additional fee.

• Standard Seats: $10–$30 per segment.
• Exit Row Seats: $20–$50 per segment, offering extra legroom.
• Priority Boarding: Available for an additional fee for early access to overhead bin space.

If passengers do not select a seat, one will be randomly assigned at check-in for free.

6. Change & Cancellation Policies

Sun Country does not offer refundable tickets, but passengers can make changes for a fee:

• Changes 60+ days before departure: Free.
• Changes 14–59 days before departure: $39 fee per passenger.
• Changes 0–13 days before departure: $99 fee per passenger.

7. Sun Country Airlines Loyalty Program: Sun Country Rewards

Sun Country’s Sun Country Rewards program allows frequent travelers to earn points toward flights and travel perks.

• Earning Points: Earn points for each dollar spent on flights, baggage, and add-ons.
• Redeeming Points: Points can be used for free flights, upgrades, and vacation packages.
• Elite Status Benefits: Members receive priority boarding, free checked bags, and early check-in options.

8. Customer Satisfaction & Reputation

Sun Country Airlines receives mixed reviews from passengers, depending on expectations for a low-cost carrier.

Pros of Flying Sun Country Airlines

✔ Low base fares – Great for budget-conscious travelers.
✔ Flexible baggage options – Pay only for what you need.
✔ Nonstop flights to vacation destinations – Ideal for leisure travelers.
✔ Comfortable seating compared to other ULCCs – More legroom than Spirit or Frontier.

Cons of Flying Sun Country Airlines

❌ Baggage fees add up – Costs can be high if not pre-purchased.
❌ Limited route network – Mostly serves leisure destinations.
❌ No free carry-on bag – Unlike Southwest, carry-ons cost extra.
❌ Limited customer support – No 24/7 phone support.

9. Why Choose Sun Country Airlines?

Sun Country Airlines is an excellent choice for budget travelers looking for affordable flights to vacation destinations. While the airline charges for extras like baggage and seat selection, passengers can save money by booking add-ons in advance and traveling light.

Final Thoughts

Sun Country Airlines offers low fares, flexible baggage options, and a comfortable flying experience compared to other budget carriers. If you’re flying to leisure hotspots like Las Vegas, Florida, or Mexico, Sun Country provides a cost-effective, no-frills travel experience—as long as you plan ahead and understand the airline’s baggage fees and policies.