Frontier Airlines Baggage Policy +1-866-666-0215

Flying with Frontier Airlines Baggage Policy means embracing a fundamentally different baggage philosophy compared to traditional carriers. As a leading Ultra Low-Cost Carrier (ULCC), Frontier operates on a "pay-as-you-go" model for virtually all services beyond the ticket price, with baggage being a significant component. Understanding their detailed and often complex baggage policy is not just recommended; it's essential for avoiding hefty fees and ensuring a smooth travel experience. This comprehensive guide breaks down every aspect of the Frontier Airlines baggage policy.

The Foundation: Checked Baggage Allowance

Frontier does not include a free checked baggage allowance in its base fare. Every passenger who wishes to check a bag must pay a fee. The cost of checking a bag is determined by several factors:

1. When You Pay: This is the most critical factor.

• Online Pre-Purchase (Highest Savings): Paying for your bag(s) during online check-in (from 24 hours up to 1 hour before departure) offers the lowest price per bag.

• Mobile App Purchase: Similar to online, purchasing via the Frontier Airlines mobile app offers the next tier of pricing.

• Airport Purchase (Most Expensive): Paying at the airport ticket counter or kiosk is significantly more expensive. Fees increase closer to departure and are highest at the gate.

2. Bag Quantity: The first bag is always the cheapest. Each subsequent bag costs more.

3. Route: Fees can vary depending on the specific route flown. Longer or more complex routes may have slightly different pricing structures.

4. Bag Weight and Size: All checked bags must adhere to specific limits.

Checked Baggage Specifications:

• Size: Each checked bag must not exceed 62 linear inches (158 cm) in total dimensions (Length + Width + Height). This is a standard size limit for most US domestic carriers.

• Weight: The standard weight limit for a checked bag on Frontier is 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceeding this weight incurs significant overweight fees. The maximum weight allowed per bag is typically 100 lbs (45 kg), but this requires prior approval and incurs very high fees. Crucially, any bag weighing over 50 lbs will be charged the overweight fee regardless of when it was purchased.

Understanding Checked Baggage Fees (Examples - Subject to Change):

Frontier's fees are dynamic and change frequently. The following provides a general idea of the pricing structure as of late 2023/early 2024:

• Online/Early Purchase (First Bag): Typically ranges from $25 - $45.

• Online/Early Purchase (Second Bag): Typically ranges from $35 - $55.

• Online/Early Purchase (Third Bag+): Typically ranges from $75 - $85 per bag.

• Airport Purchase (First Bag): Typically starts around $75 - $90.

• Airport Purchase (Second Bag): Typically starts around $85 - $100.

• Overweight Bag (51-99 lbs): A substantial fee is added on top of the standard checked bag fee, often starting around $75 - $100.

• Oversized Bag (63-115 linear inches): If your bag is within the weight limit but exceeds the 62" size limit (but is under 115"), it's considered oversized and incurs an additional fee on top of the standard bag fee, often starting around $75 - $100.

• Overweight AND Oversized: You would pay the standard bag fee, the overweight fee, AND the oversized fee.

Carry-On Baggage: The Critical Distinction

Frontier's carry-on policy is a major point of confusion and potential expense for passengers. It's vital to understand the difference between a "Personal Item" and a "Carry-On Bag."

• Personal Item (Included in Base Fare): Every passenger is allowed one personal item that fits completely under the seat in front of you. This includes:

• A small purse, handbag, or laptop bag (max dimensions vary, but typically around 14" x 12" x 8").

• A small backpack.

• Carry-On Bag (NOT Included - Must be Paid For): If you want to bring a bag that goes in the overhead bin, you MUST pay for it. A carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and under the seat if needed, with maximum dimensions typically around 24" x 16" x 10" (61 cm x 41 cm x 25 cm). The fee for a carry-on bag is similar in structure to checked bags (cheaper if paid online in advance, significantly more expensive at the gate). Failing to pay for a carry-on bag that you bring to the gate will result in it being gate-checked, and you will be charged the gate-check fee, which is often higher than the standard carry-on fee.

Special Items and Equipment

Frontier has specific policies and fees for items beyond standard luggage:

• Bicycles: Allowed in checked baggage but require disassembly (pedals removed, handlebars turned sideways, tires deflated). Fees apply and vary based on weight and size.

• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (e.g., violin, small guitar) may be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, potentially as your personal item or carry-on. Larger instruments can be checked as baggage with applicable fees. A unique policy allows one musical instrument as a carry-on if it's the passenger's only carry-on item, but size restrictions still apply.

• Sports Equipment: Items like golf clubs, skis, surfboards, and diving equipment are accepted as checked baggage with specific fees based on weight, size, and sometimes the item itself. Crucially, firearms and ammunition are strictly prohibited in both checked and carry-on baggage.

• Pets: Small domestic cats and dogs can travel in the cabin for a fee (around $99-$149 each way, depending on the route). They must fit in a carrier that fits under the seat. Larger pets travel as checked baggage in the cargo hold for a higher fee (around $200-$300 each way).

• Infant Items: Strollers and car seats can be checked for free at the gate.

Excess, Oversized, and Overweight Baggage

Understanding these terms is crucial to avoid massive fees:

• Excess Baggage: Simply means you have more checked bags than the free allowance (which is zero). You pay the per-bag fee.

• Oversized Baggage: A bag that exceeds the 62" linear dimension limit but is under 115" (and within the weight limit).

• Overweight Baggage: A bag that is within the size limit but exceeds the 50 lb weight limit (up to 100 lbs).

You can be charged for multiple issues on a single bag (e.g., oversized AND overweight).

Loyalty Program and Credit Card Benefits

Frontier Miles credit card holders receive benefits that can offset baggage costs:

• Primary Cardholder: Receives one free checked bag (first bag only) on the cardholder's ticket.

• Authorized Users: Also receive one free checked bag on their tickets when traveling with the primary cardholder.

• Elite Status: Higher tiers of Frontier Miles Elite Status offer additional free checked bags.

Tips for Navigating Frontier's Baggage Policy

1. Pre-Pay Online, Always: This is the single biggest money-saver. Purchase all bags (checked and carry-on) during online check-in.

2. Know Your Limits: Measure and weigh your bags at home. A bag that is 50.1 lbs at the airport will cost you the overweight fee.

3. Consider the True Cost: Factor in the cost of bags when comparing Frontier fares to other airlines. A $49 base fare can easily become $150+ with two checked bags.

4. Travel Light with a Personal Item: Master packing light. A well-packed personal item that fits under the seat can save you the cost of a carry-on bag fee.

5. Gate vs. Check-in: If you have an unpurchased bag at the gate, you will pay the highest possible fee. If you must check an unpurchased bag, do it at the ticket counter to avoid the gate fee.

6. Check the Website: Fees and policies change. Always verify the latest information directly on the Frontier Airlines website before you fly.

Conclusion

Frontier Airlines' baggage policy is intentionally minimalist to keep base fares low. While this model offers budget travel options, it places the onus on the passenger to understand and manage their baggage needs proactively. The key to a successful and affordable trip is meticulous planning: accurately measure and weigh your luggage, pre-purchase all necessary bags online well in advance, and consider if the total cost (fare + bags) still represents the best value for your journey. By respecting the policy and preparing accordingly, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and enjoy the savings Frontier provides.