Traveling with Frontier Airlines Baggage Policy can be a cost-effective way to reach your destination, but it’s important to understand the airline’s baggage policy to avoid unexpected fees and ensure a smooth travel experience. Unlike many full-service carriers, Frontier operates as an ultra-low-cost airline, which means that the base fare covers only your seat — everything else, including baggage, comes with additional charges.
1. Personal Item: What’s Included in Your Fare
Every Frontier ticket includes one free personal item. This item must fit under the seat in front of you and comply with the maximum dimensions of 14” H x 18” W x 8” D. Examples of personal items include:
- A small backpack
- A purse or handbag
- A laptop bag
If your personal item exceeds these dimensions, it will be considered a carry-on or even checked luggage, which will result in additional fees.
2. Carry-On Bag: Fees and Size Restrictions
Carry-on bags are not included in the basic fare. If you want to bring a standard carry-on bag, you’ll need to pay a fee. Frontier recommends purchasing carry-on allowances during the booking process to save money, as fees increase the closer you get to departure.
Allowed dimensions for carry-on luggage are 24” H x 16” W x 10” D, including wheels and handles. The weight limit is typically 35 pounds, although it’s not always strictly enforced unless the bag appears significantly oversized or heavy.
Accepted carry-on items include:
- Small suitcases
- Duffel bags
- Roller bags
Keep in mind that Frontier does not guarantee overhead bin space for carry-ons, so early boarding can help ensure room for your bag.
3. Checked Baggage: Fees, Size, and Weight Limits
Checked baggage must also be purchased separately. Just like carry-ons, it’s cheaper to pay for your checked bags during booking rather than at the airport.
Standard checked bags must meet the following requirements:
- Max dimensions: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
- Max weight: 40 pounds
If your bag exceeds these limits, additional overweight and oversized baggage fees will apply. These can be steep, so it’s important to weigh your luggage at home if possible.
Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees:
- Bags weighing 41–50 lbs incur an extra fee
- Bags weighing 51–100 lbs are charged an even higher fee
- Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted
- Items larger than 110 linear inches are also not accepted
4. Special Items and Sports Equipment
Frontier allows passengers to check sports equipment like skis, golf clubs, and bicycles, but these items are subject to the same size and weight limitations. If your equipment fits within the standard checked bag limits, you’ll only need to pay the standard baggage fee. Otherwise, oversize and overweight charges will apply.
Always check Frontier’s specific policies for special items in advance, especially for unusually shaped gear.
5. Baggage Bundles and Discount Options
Frontier offers several ways to reduce baggage fees:
- The Works/Perks Bundles: These add-ons include carry-on, checked baggage, seat selection, and refundability at a discounted rate when purchased together.
- Discount Den Membership: This subscription provides access to exclusive fares and may include lower baggage fees during booking.
Paying for bags during your booking or online check-in (rather than at the airport) can result in significant savings.
6. Tips for Avoiding Extra Charges
- Measure and weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport.
- Pay for baggage in advance online to avoid last-minute airport fees.
- Pack light and try to fit everything into a personal item if you’re on a short trip.
- Consider bundling perks if you’re traveling with multiple bags or on a round-trip.
Final Thoughts
Frontier Airlines’ baggage policy is designed to offer travelers low base fares with the option to customize their travel experience. While the à la carte pricing model can be a great way to save money, it requires a bit of planning. Understanding the size, weight, and cost guidelines for your bags is essential to avoiding stress and unexpected costs at the airport. If you’re willing to travel light or plan your baggage needs carefully, Frontier can be an affordable and efficient choice for domestic and select international flights.
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