Do You Pay For Carry On Baggage With Frontier Airlines?
Traveling can get expensive quickly, especially when you factor in all the extra fees airlines charge today. One of the biggest questions travelers have when booking flights is whether they’ll have to pay extra to bring a carry on bag.
This is an important consideration since carry on fees can really add up, with some airlines charging $30-$60 per bag each way. So do you have to pay for carry on with Frontier Airlines? Let’s take a detailed look at their baggage policies.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Frontier Airlines charges for carry on bags for many passengers. Their carry on bag fees start at $40 per bag per flight segment when paid in advance online.
However, their website does say that their ‘Works’ bundle and higher fare classes allow one free carry on item.
Frontier’s Carry On Baggage Fees
Basic Carry On Fees
Frontier Airlines charges a fee for carry on bags that exceed the free personal item dimensions. As of September 2023, Frontier’s carry on bag fee is $40 per bag each way when paid for online or at check-in.
Frontier’s maximum carry on bag dimensions are 22 x 18 x 10 inches, including handles and wheels. Bags exceeding these dimensions are considered oversized and subject to the carry on fee. Personal items like purses, laptop bags, and small backpacks under 18 x 14 x 8 inches can be brought on board for free.
To avoid carry on fees, Frontier customers can opt to check a bag instead. Checked bag fees start at $40 for the first bag when paid for online. Checking a bag at the airport costs $55 for the first bag and $70 for the second bag.
Exceptions and Bundles That Include Free Carry On
There are some exceptions where Frontier passengers can get a free carry on bag:
- Frontier Elite Members with status receive 1 free carry on
- Passengers who book a Works bundle get 1 free carry on and 1 free checked bag
- The Perks bundle includes 1 free carry on
Works and Perks bundles must be purchased during online booking to qualify for the free carry on allowance. These bundles provide additional perks like seat selection, stretch seating, zone boarding, and refundability.
Frontier also occasionally runs promotions that include a free carry on. For example, I saw a recent promo for Kids Fly Free that included a free carry on for kids under 14.
The easiest way to get a free carry on with Frontier is to obtain Frontier Elite status. This requires flying 25,000 miles or 30 segments on Frontier in a calendar year. Elite members receive free carry on, checked bags, stretch seating, and more. It can be worthwhile for frequent Frontier flyers.
Frontier’s Carry On Size and Weight Limits
When it comes to traveling with Frontier Airlines, it’s important to understand their carry on size and weight limits. This will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience at the airport. Frontier has specific regulations in place to ensure that carry on baggage fits properly in the overhead bins and doesn’t cause any safety concerns during the flight.
Maximum Size Regulations
Frontier Airlines has strict guidelines regarding the maximum size of carry on baggage. According to their policy, the maximum dimensions for a carry on bag are 24 inches in length, 16 inches in width, and 10 inches in depth.
It’s important to note that these dimensions include any handles, wheels, and pockets. If your bag exceeds these dimensions, you may be required to check it in and pay the applicable fees.
Frontier recommends using a tape measure to accurately measure the dimensions of your bag before heading to the airport. This will help avoid any surprises or additional charges at the gate. It’s always a good idea to double-check the dimensions to ensure compliance with the airline’s regulations.
Weight Restrictions
In addition to size limitations, Frontier Airlines also imposes weight restrictions on carry on baggage. The maximum weight allowed for a carry on bag is 35 pounds. If your bag exceeds this weight limit, you may be required to either remove items from your bag or check it in as a checked bag.
Frontier Airlines is known for their low-cost fares and their à la carte pricing model, which means that some services, including carry on baggage, may incur additional fees. It’s important to check Frontier’s official website or contact their customer service to get the most up-to-date information regarding fees and policies.
It’s worth mentioning that Frontier does offer a personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, that can be brought on board free of charge. However, this item must fit under the seat in front of you. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific dimensions and weight limits for personal items as well.
For more information on Frontier’s carry on policies and fees, you can visit their official website here.
Tips for Avoiding Frontier’s Carry On Fees
Frontier Airlines is known for its low-cost fares, but one thing that catches many passengers off guard is their carry on baggage fees. Unlike other airlines that typically allow at least one free carry on item, Frontier charges a fee for each bag that doesn’t fit under the seat in front of you.
However, there are several ways to avoid these fees and save some money on your next Frontier flight.
Book a Fare Bundle That Includes It
One of the easiest ways to avoid Frontier’s carry on fees is to book a fare bundle that includes a carry on bag. Frontier offers different fare options, including bundles that already include a carry on bag in the price.
By choosing one of these bundles, you can save money compared to paying for the carry on bag separately. It’s important to note that not all fare bundles include a carry on bag, so make sure to check the details before booking.
Sign Up for Frontier’s Discount Club
Another way to avoid carry on fees with Frontier is by signing up for their Discount Den membership program. For an annual fee, members of Discount Den receive access to exclusive low fares and, most importantly, a free carry on bag on every flight.
This can be a great option for frequent Frontier travelers who want to save on baggage fees in the long run. Plus, the membership also comes with other perks like priority boarding and discounts on seat assignments.
Join Frontier’s Credit Card Rewards Program
If you’re a frequent flyer with Frontier, it may be worth considering their credit card rewards program. By signing up for the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard, you can earn miles on everyday purchases that can be redeemed for free flights or upgrades.
As a cardholder, you’ll also receive a free carry on bag on every flight, helping you avoid those pesky fees. Just make sure to read the terms and conditions of the credit card program to understand any fees or restrictions that may apply.
Pack Light and Only Bring a Personal Item
Lastly, if you’re looking to avoid carry on fees altogether, the simplest solution is to pack light and only bring a personal item. Frontier allows passengers to bring one personal item, such as a small backpack or purse, for free.
As long as your personal item fits under the seat in front of you, you won’t have to pay any additional fees. This option is ideal for short trips or travelers who prefer to travel light.
By following these tips, you can save money and avoid paying for carry on baggage with Frontier Airlines. Whether you choose to book a fare bundle, sign up for their discount club, join their credit card rewards program, or simply pack light, there are options available to fit every traveler’s needs and budget.
What About Other Frontier Baggage Fees?
Aside from carry-on baggage fees, Frontier Airlines also charges for checked bags and oversized or overweight bags. Let’s take a closer look at these additional fees:
Checked Bag Fees
If you prefer to check in your baggage instead of carrying it on board, Frontier Airlines offers different options for you to choose from. Keep in mind that these fees may vary depending on the route and booking class.
- For Economy Fare passengers, the first checked bag will cost $30, while the second bag will cost $45.
- For Classic Plus Fare passengers, the first checked bag is included in the ticket price, and the second bag will cost $45.
- For Basic Fare passengers, there is a fee for both the first and second checked bags, with prices starting at $30 and increasing depending on the route.
It’s important to note that the weight and size restrictions for checked bags may vary as well. Be sure to check Frontier Airlines’ official website for the most up-to-date information before your flight.
Fees for Oversize and Overweight Bags
If your baggage exceeds the weight or size limits set by Frontier Airlines, you may incur additional fees. These fees are charged per bag and are separate from the regular checked bag fees.
For oversized bags, which typically exceed the maximum linear dimension of 62 inches (length + width + height), Frontier Airlines charges an additional fee of $75. This fee applies to bags that weigh between 51 and 100 pounds.
If your bag exceeds 100 pounds in weight, you will need to contact Frontier Airlines directly for assistance with shipping and handling.
For overweight bags, which exceed the weight allowance set by Frontier Airlines, there is an additional fee of $75 for bags weighing between 51 and 100 pounds. Bags weighing over 100 pounds will also require special handling arrangements.
Remember, these fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check Frontier Airlines’ official website or contact their customer service for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Conclusion
In summary, Frontier Airlines does charge carry on bag fees in most cases, starting at $40 per bag when paid online in advance. However, there are some exceptions if you book a fare bundle or Frontier credit card that includes free carry on privileges.
Following their size and weight limits carefully and only bringing a small personal item can also help avoid fees. While Frontier’s baggage fees can add up quickly, being aware of their policies can help you minimize extra costs.
We hope this detailed overview helps you understand Frontier’s carry on baggage allowances and fees. Safe travels!
