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

Frontier Airlines, an American ultra-low-cost carrier, is known for offering travelers budget-friendly fares across a wide network of domestic and international routes. As part of its low-cost business model, Frontier unbundles services typically included in traditional airline fares, such as seat selection, refreshments, and most notably, baggage. Understanding Frontier Airlines Baggage Policy is essential for travelers seeking to avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smooth journey. This essay explores the various aspects of Frontier’s baggage policy, including personal item allowances, carry-on and checked baggage rules, associated fees, and considerations for special items.

 
The Low-Cost Model and Its Implications
Frontier Airlines’ business model is designed to minimize base fares and allow passengers to pay only for the services they use. This approach has revolutionized how travelers approach air travel. However, it also means that amenities traditionally included in standard airline fares are now optional add-ons. Baggage is a prime example. The base fare on Frontier includes only one personal item, and any additional luggage incurs extra charges. While this can lead to significant savings for light travelers, those who need more luggage must carefully understand the rules to avoid high fees.

 
Personal Item: What’s Included
Every Frontier passenger is allowed one free personal item with their ticket. A personal item must fit under the seat in front of the passenger and adhere to specific size restrictions:

Maximum dimensions: 14 inches tall x 18 inches wide x 8 inches deep

Typical examples: Small backpack, laptop bag, purse, or briefcase

Personal items are ideal for essentials such as electronics, travel documents, medication, and a few small personal belongings. Exceeding the size or volume limits may result in the item being reclassified as a carry-on, leading to additional charges at the gate. Frontier enforces these rules strictly, and travelers should measure and pack carefully to comply.

 
Carry-On Baggage: Optional and Fee-Based
Unlike many full-service carriers, Frontier Airlines does not include carry-on baggage in the base fare. Passengers who wish to bring a larger item that cannot fit under the seat must purchase a carry-on allowance. The carry-on bag must meet the following requirements:

Maximum dimensions: 24 inches tall x 16 inches wide x 10 inches deep, including handles and wheels

Weight limit: No specified weight limit, but the passenger must be able to lift the bag into the overhead bin unassisted

Carry-on baggage typically includes small suitcases, duffel bags, or larger backpacks. The cost of a carry-on bag varies depending on when and how it is purchased. The most economical option is to add the bag during the initial booking process. Adding it later, such as at check-in or at the gate, will incur significantly higher fees. In some cases, carry-on fees at the gate can exceed $75.

 
Checked Baggage: Fee Structure and Guidelines
Checked baggage is also not included in the standard fare and must be purchased separately. Each checked bag must comply with Frontier’s size and weight limitations:

Maximum weight: 40 pounds (18 kilograms)

Maximum size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)

Frontier’s checked baggage weight limit is lower than the industry standard of 50 pounds, and exceeding this limit results in substantial overweight baggage fees. Fees increase with weight:

41–50 pounds: Additional $50

51–100 pounds: Additional $100

Bags exceeding 100 pounds or over 80 linear inches in size are not accepted. As with carry-on luggage, purchasing checked baggage in advance is the most cost-effective option. Frontier offers travelers the ability to add baggage during booking, after booking via the website or app, and at the airport—each with progressively higher costs.

 
Bundled Options: The Works and The Perks
To make baggage costs more manageable, Frontier Airlines offers bundled fare upgrades: The Works and The Perks.

The Works (available only during initial booking): Includes one carry-on, one checked bag, seat selection (including stretch seating), priority boarding, flexibility to change flights, and refundability.

The Perks (can be added after booking): Includes one carry-on bag, one checked bag, and seat selection.

These bundles often provide better value than purchasing each component separately, particularly for travelers who need both a carry-on and a checked bag.

 
Special Items and Sports Equipment
Frontier Airlines permits the transport of special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and medical devices, provided they meet specific guidelines. Most sporting goods—like skis, snowboards, golf clubs, and bicycles—must be checked and are subject to standard baggage fees, plus potential oversize charges. Items must be packed securely in appropriate containers or cases.

Musical instruments that fit within the carry-on dimensions may be brought aboard, while larger instruments can be checked or, in rare cases, require an additional seat purchase. Medical devices such as wheelchairs and mobility aids are transported free of charge, in accordance with federal regulations and Frontier’s customer service policies.

 
Traveling with Infants and Children
Families traveling with infants and young children receive limited baggage accommodations:

Lap infants (under 2 years old without their own seat): Do not receive a separate baggage allowance but may check one stroller and one car seat free of charge.

Children with a seat: Receive the same baggage allowances as adults based on the fare purchased.

Frontier recommends labeling and securing all baby-related items to avoid damage or confusion at check-in.

 
Baggage Irregularities: Delays, Loss, and Damage
In the event of lost, delayed, or damaged baggage, passengers must file a report with Frontier within a specific time frame:

Domestic flights: Within 4 hours of arrival at the airport

International flights: Within 21 days for delayed baggage or 7 days for damaged baggage

Claims must include a detailed inventory of the lost items and supporting documentation. Frontier is subject to liability limits established by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Montreal Convention for international flights. The airline does not assume responsibility for fragile, valuable, or perishable items packed in checked luggage.

 
Recommendations for Travelers
Given the complexity and variability of Frontier Airlines’ baggage policy, travelers are advised to:

Review baggage rules prior to booking

Weigh and measure bags at home

Purchase baggage allowances during the initial booking

Consider travel bundles for better value

Use a compliant personal item to avoid extra fees

Label all luggage clearly

By taking these precautions, passengers can avoid unexpected costs and travel with greater ease.

 
Conclusion
Frontier Airlines' baggage policy reflects its ultra-low-cost approach to air travel, prioritizing flexibility and cost transparency. While the policy may appear restrictive compared to traditional airlines, it empowers travelers to pay only for what they use. For those willing to pack efficiently and plan ahead, the system offers substantial savings. However, a lack of understanding or last-minute changes can result in significant baggage fees. Therefore, being well-informed about the baggage policies—including size limits, fees, and special item rules—is essential for a smooth and economical experience with Frontier Airlines.