Frontier Airlines Baggage Policy of 2025

Last Updated: Nov 13, 2025

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Traveling with Frontier Airlines can be a budget-friendly choice for many passengers, but understanding their baggage policy is essential before you fly. Frontier is known as an ultra-low-cost carrier, meaning the base ticket price covers only the essentials. Anything extra, such as larger bags or seat selection, may add to your total cost.

Knowing what is included in your fare can help you pack smartly and avoid extra fees at the airport. This blog explains everything you need to know about Frontier Airlines’ baggage rules, including personal item limits, carry-on and checked bag sizes, additional charges, and helpful tips to save money while booking your next flight.

What Is Included in a Frontier Airlines Fare?

Frontier keeps fares low by charging only for what passengers use. While this approach makes air travel more affordable, it also means you need to plan ahead to ensure you have the right baggage allowance.


Here’s what your standard fare generally includes:

  • A seat on the flight and one personal item such as a small backpack or handbag that fits under the seat in front of you.
  • Additional baggage, like a carry-on suitcase or checked bag, must be purchased separately.
  • The price for these bags can vary depending on your route, how early you add them to your booking, and their weight and size.

By choosing only what you need, you have control over your total spending, but understanding the baggage structure early on can save you time and stress on the day of travel.

Personal Item, Carry-On and Checked Bags: Size & Weight Limits

Before you pack, it is important to know the size and weight limits for each bag type. Frontier has clear guidelines to ensure all passengers can store their luggage safely and efficiently on board or in the aircraft hold.


Below are the basic categories of baggage Frontier recognises:

  • Personal Item: This is the only piece included in your ticket. It must fit under the seat in front of you. Small bags, laptop cases, and compact backpacks generally qualify as personal items.
  • Carry-On Bag: Larger than a personal item but smaller than a checked bag, this must fit into the overhead bin and stay within the airline’s size and weight restrictions.
  • Checked Bag: These go in the aircraft hold and must meet specific linear size and weight limits. Oversized or overweight bags may incur an additional charge.

Measuring your luggage before arriving at the airport ensures your bags meet the airline’s requirements. If your bag is too large or heavy, it may need to be checked at the gate.

Baggage Fees on Frontier Flights

One of the most common mistakes travellers make is waiting until the last minute to pay for baggage. Frontier offers flexible options to add bags at different stages of booking, but it’s always more cost-effective to add them earlier rather than later.


A few points to remember:

  • The earlier you purchase your baggage allowance, the better deal you usually get. Adding bags during the initial booking process is almost always cheaper than paying at check-in or at the gate.
  • Frontier uses a dynamic pricing model, meaning that fees can vary depending on factors like travel distance, route, and how full the flight is.
  • Carry-on and checked baggage may be priced differently, so check your total before confirming your booking.
  • Sometimes a checked bag can cost less than a carry-on, especially if you pack efficiently and plan to check your luggage anyway.

By being aware of these points, you can manage your baggage costs effectively and prevent unpleasant surprises during your travel day.

How to Save Money on Baggage with Frontier

Frontier Airlines allows travellers to customise their journey by paying only for the services they need. However, there are several smart ways to make sure your baggage costs stay low and your trip remains within budget.


Here are some easy ways to save on baggage fees:

  • Book early: Adding your bags at the time of booking helps you secure a lower rate than paying at the airport.
  • Travel light: If possible, limit yourself to one personal item that fits under the seat. It’s the only piece included in your fare.
  • Compare options: Sometimes it’s cheaper to check a bag than carry it on. Review your packing needs and choose accordingly.
  • Avoid oversize charges: Stick to the airline’s size and weight guidelines to prevent additional costs.
  • Use travel bundles: Frontier occasionally offers fare bundles that include a carry-on or checked bag at a discounted price.

By planning ahead and packing smart, you can enjoy an affordable flight without compromising on comfort or convenience.

Special Cases: Military, Oversized Items, and Limited Free Bags

Frontier Airlines also offers certain exemptions and special rules for passengers with unique needs. Whether you are a member of the military, travelling with sports equipment, or carrying oversized items, understanding the rules ensures a smoother experience.


Here’s how special baggage rules work:

  • Military personnel: Active members of the U.S. military may be eligible for complimentary baggage allowances. This can include a combination of carry-on and checked bags, making travel more convenient for service members.
  • Sports equipment: Items such as golf clubs, skis, surfboards, or bicycles are allowed but must meet specific packing and size requirements. These are typically treated as checked baggage.
  • Musical instruments: Smaller instruments can often be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin, while larger ones must be checked.
  • Oversized or overweight bags: If your luggage exceeds the airline’s limits, additional charges may apply, or the bag may be declined.

Knowing these details in advance can save time and effort at the airport, helping you enjoy a stress-free journey.

How Baggage Policy Impacts Your Flight Booking with Frontier?

Understanding the baggage policy before booking your flight is one of the best ways to manage your total travel cost. Since Frontier operates on a low-fare model, it’s important to remember that your ticket price covers only a portion of what you might need for a complete trip.


Here’s how baggage affects your overall booking:

  • Transparent budgeting: Always factor in the cost of baggage before finalising your flight. The lowest fare might look appealing, but it could increase once you add your bags.
  • Bundle fares wisely: Some Frontier fares include added benefits like a free carry-on or seat selection. While these fares cost more upfront, they can save you money overall.
  • Compare before you buy: If you’re flying through a travel website or booking platform like Travelpodium, you can view your total cost in one place and select the fare that works best for your journey.
  • Pack efficiently: Understanding the limits allows you to choose the right bag and avoid delays or extra costs at the gate.

By considering the baggage policy during your booking process, you can fly smarter and enjoy a better travel experience with fewer surprises.

Conclusion

Travelling with Frontier Airlines is an excellent way to save on airfare, but being informed about the baggage policy makes your journey even easier. By understanding what’s included in your fare, sticking to size and weight limits, and booking your bags early, you can enjoy a smooth, cost-efficient trip from start to finish.

Frontier’s baggage system may seem complex at first, but once you plan ahead, it becomes simple and flexible. From personal items to oversized luggage, every traveller can find an option that fits their needs and budget.

If you’re ready to fly without the stress of hidden fees, book your next flight with Travelpodium. Compare fares, manage your bags in advance, and enjoy complete peace of mind knowing your trip is perfectly planned.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Yes, you can bring one personal item included with your ticket, and you may add a carry-on bag by paying for it during booking or check-in. The personal item must fit under the seat, while the carry-on must fit in the overhead bin within the airline’s size and weight limits.

If your bag is larger or heavier than the airline’s limits, you may need to pay an additional fee or check the bag at the gate. In rare cases, extremely oversized or overweight bags might not be accepted on the flight. Measuring and weighing your bags before heading to the airport helps you avoid any last-minute issues.

Frontier’s base fare includes only one personal item. Checked bags, carry-ons, and seat selections are optional extras that can be added for an additional cost. Some special fares or bundles may include one or more bags at a discounted rate, so it’s worth checking before booking.

Yes, active-duty U.S. military personnel may qualify for a complimentary baggage allowance. This can include a carry-on and multiple checked bags without extra fees. Identification is required at the airport to confirm eligibility.

The best way to save is to plan early. Add your bags when you first book your flight, stick to size and weight rules, and compare bundled fares that include baggage. Traveling light by carrying only a personal item can also help you reduce your overall cost.

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Meet the Author
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Annu

Annu is a content writer who loves turning ideas into clear, engaging words. She explores new writing styles, tools, and technologies, and enjoys experimenting with cooking and other creative hobbies in her free time.

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