Frontier Airlines Carry-On Rules: Fees & Free Options

Frontier Airlines operates a model almost identical to Spirit Airlines when it comes to carry-on bags: the under-seat personal item is free, and the overhead carry-on is a paid add-on. If you fly Frontier without understanding this distinction, you can end up paying gate fees that dwarf the original base fare.

This guide explains exactly what's included, what costs extra, and how to get a free carry-on on Frontier.

Free Personal Item Allowance

Every Frontier Airlines passenger receives one free personal item:

• Maximum dimensions: 18 × 14 × 8 inches (46 × 35 × 20 cm)
• Where it goes: Under the seat in front of you
• Weight: No published weight limit
• Cost: Free on all fare types

Frontier's personal item dimensions are identical to Spirit's — 18 × 14 × 8 inches is a reasonably generous underseat allowance. A small backpack, laptop bag, or compact duffel typically fits within these dimensions.

Important: The bag must fully fit under the seat. A bag that is technically within the dimensions but sticks out into the aisle or foot well is non-compliant.

Overhead Carry-On Fees

The overhead carry-on is a paid service on Frontier. The fee varies significantly based on when you purchase:

When you buy	Typical cost
During initial online booking	$30–55
Online, after booking	$40–65
During online check-in	$50–75
At the airport counter	$70–89
At the gate	$99

These ranges reflect Frontier's dynamic pricing — the exact fee depends on route, season, and demand. The gate fee is always the highest option and should always be avoided.

Overhead Carry-On Size Limit

If you purchase overhead carry-on access, Frontier allows:

• Maximum dimensions: 24 × 16 × 10 inches (61 × 41 × 25 cm)
• Weight: 35 lbs (16 kg) maximum
• Where it goes: Overhead bin

Frontier's carry-on size limit is among the largest in US aviation — the 24-inch height allowance accommodates bags that many other airlines would reject. Standard carry-on suitcases in the 21–22 inch category are well within this limit.

Ways to Get a Free Carry-On on Frontier

1. Frontier Airlines World Mastercard

The Frontier Airlines World Mastercard includes one free carry-on bag per flight for the primary cardholder. On a round trip, this saves $60–200 depending on route and timing. For travellers who fly Frontier 3 or more times per year, the card's annual fee is easily justified by carry-on savings.

Secondary cardholders and family members travelling together do not receive the carry-on benefit.

2. Bundle purchases (WORKS, PERKS, STRETCH)

Frontier sells bundled fare packages that include carry-on access:

• THE WORKS: Most comprehensive bundle — includes carry-on, checked bag, seat selection, and trip flexibility
• THE PERKS: Includes carry-on and seat selection
• STRETCH: Seat upgrade only — does not include carry-on

If you were going to buy a carry-on and a seat assignment separately, THE PERKS bundle is often the better value.

3. Discount Den fare bundles

Frontier's Discount Den membership ($59.99/year) provides access to discounted fares. Some Discount Den fares are paired with bundles that include carry-on access. Check during booking whether the discounted fare is a standalone ticket or a bundle.

4. Pack within the personal item

For short trips of 1–3 days, packing within the 18 × 14 × 8 inch personal item is achievable. A high-quality compression packing cube set and lightweight clothing can fit a weekend's worth of essentials into a 20-litre backpack that meets the personal item limit.

The Gate Fee Problem

The $99 gate fee is Frontier's version of a deterrent — it's designed to discourage passengers from trying to sneak a carry-on bag past the gate without paying. In practice, Frontier gate agents do enforce this at busy hubs, and the gate fee is non-negotiable once you're at the gate.

The fee gap between "buy online during booking" ($30–55) and "pay at the gate" ($99) is large enough that any traveller who knows they need an overhead bag should always pre-purchase.

Frontier vs Spirit: Carry-On Comparison

Frontier and Spirit have nearly identical carry-on policies but some differences:

Factor	Frontier	Spirit
Personal item	18×14×8 in (free)	18×14×8 in (free)
Overhead size	24×16×10 in (paid)	22×18×10 in (paid)
Gate fee	~$99	~$99
Credit card perk	Free carry-on	Free carry-on
Big seat perk	N/A	Big Front Seat includes carry-on

Frontier's overhead carry-on is actually larger than Spirit's by published dimensions. In practice, both airlines use standard overhead bins and accept the same-sized bags.

Tips for Frontier Flyers

Always buy carry-on access early. The price difference between booking-time purchase and gate purchase is up to $70. Pre-purchase is the only rational choice.

Measure your personal item. Frontier agents check personal item size on full flights. A bag that's 9 inches deep rather than 8 inches will be caught and charged the gate fee.

Consider THE WORKS bundle for flexible trips. If you need a carry-on, a checked bag, and might need to change your flight, THE WORKS bundle can be cheaper than buying each service separately.

Discount Den is worth it for frequent Frontier flyers. The $59.99 annual fee is easily recovered on 2–3 round trips at discounted rates. Pair with the credit card for maximum carry-on savings.

Use the CarrySizer bag fit checker to see whether your bag fits Frontier's personal item or overhead carry-on dimensions.