Understanding baggage fees is crucial when flying with budget airlines like Frontier. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of Frontier’s carry-on bag policy and associated costs, helping you avoid unexpected expenses at the airport.
Frontier Airlines charges for carry-on bags, unlike some airlines that allow them for free. The price varies depending on when and how you purchase your baggage allowance. Purchasing your bag online in advance is generally cheaper than at the airport.
Carry-On Baggage Dimensions and Weight Restrictions
Frontier has specific size and weight limitations for carry-on bags:
- Size: Maximum dimensions of 24″ tall, 10″ wide, and 16″ long (including handles, wheels, and straps).
- Weight: Maximum weight of 35 pounds.
Carry-on bags must fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Failure to comply with these restrictions can result in additional fees and potential gate-checking of your bag.
Personal Item: Each passenger is allowed one free personal item, such as a purse, small backpack, or laptop bag. The personal item must fit completely under the seat in front of you. The maximum size for a personal item is 14” tall, 18” wide, and 8” long.
Carry-On Bag Fees
The cost of a carry-on bag on Frontier depends on several factors:
- Route: The specific flight route can influence the price.
- Time of Purchase: Purchasing your baggage allowance online during booking or before check-in is the most cost-effective option.
- Purchase Channel: Buying a carry-on at the airport or gate is significantly more expensive.
- Discount Den Membership: Discount Den members may receive discounted baggage fees.
While the exact amount varies, you can typically expect to pay between $30-$75 for a carry-on bag if purchased online in advance. Prices at the airport can be considerably higher, potentially exceeding $100.
How to Purchase Baggage Allowance
You can purchase your baggage allowance through the following methods:
- Online During Booking: Add a carry-on bag when initially booking your flight on the Frontier website.
- Manage My Booking: After booking, you can add a carry-on bag through the “Manage My Booking” section on the Frontier website.
- Frontier Mobile App: Purchase baggage allowance through the Frontier mobile app.
- At the Airport: Buying a carry-on at the airport is the most expensive option.
It’s highly recommended to purchase your baggage allowance online in advance to save money.
Bundled Fares
Frontier offers bundled fares that may include a carry-on bag and other benefits. Consider whether a bundle is a better value for your needs if you plan on bringing a carry-on. Review the terms of the bundle.
Checked Baggage
If your bag exceeds the carry-on size or weight limits, you’ll need to check it. Checked bags have their own size and weight restrictions:
- Size: Maximum of 62 linear inches (length + width + depth).
- Weight: Maximum of 40 pounds (additional fees apply for bags weighing 41-50 pounds and 51-100 pounds; bags over 100 pounds are not accepted).
Exceptions
Certain items can be carried on board free of charge and do not count towards your baggage allowance, including:
- Medical assistive devices
- Wheelchairs
- Essential baby items
Refer to Frontier’s Contract of Carriage for a comprehensive list of exempted items.
Avoiding Baggage Fees
Here are some tips for avoiding or minimizing carry-on baggage fees on Frontier:
- Pack Light: Only bring essential items and utilize packing strategies to maximize space in your personal item.
- Wear Bulky Items: Wear your heaviest clothing items to reduce the weight and volume of your baggage.
- Ship Items: Consider shipping items to your destination if feasible.
- Frontier Discount Den: Explore Frontier’s Discount Den program for potential savings on baggage fees.
- Utilize Pockets: Distribute smaller items among your pockets to free up space in your bag.
Understanding Frontier’s carry-on bag policy and fees can help you travel smarter and avoid unexpected costs. Always check the latest information on the Frontier Airlines website before your trip.
