Here’s what you need to know about Frontier’s carry-on size policy so your next trip goes as smoothly as possible. You’ll also find expert hacks and tips on how to maximize the airline’s baggage allowance.
Quick summary.
- No free carry-on: Frontier only includes one free personal item (14 x 18 x 8 in) — carry-on bags always cost extra.
- Carry-on size limit is 24 x 16 x 10 inches and must weigh no more than 35 lbs or it gets checked.
- Book baggage early to pay the lowest carry-on fee — waiting until the airport guarantees the highest price.
- Bundles unlock savings by combining carry-on access, seat selection, and flexible change policies into one discounted package.
In this article
What is Frontier’s carry-on allowance?
Frontier carry-on weight limit.
Frontier carry-on pricing and when to buy.
TSA liquid rules for Frontier carry-on bags.
What extra items can you bring on board?
Frontier carry-on FAQs.
Top three Frontier carry-on luggage tips.
What is Frontier’s carry-on allowance?
Frontier’s carry-on size policy allows passengers to bring one personal item for free. However, carry-on baggage is not included in your fare. Below we’ll outline their luggage guidelines for those who opt to pay for a carry-on bag.
- Note that if your personal item is larger than the prescribed dimensions, you’ll have to pay an additional charge.
- All luggage size dimensions includes the bag’s handles, straps, and wheels.
- The fee you’ll pay for your carry-on bag depends on several factors, such as the route you’re flying and when you paid the carry-on baggage fee. Adding a carry-on bag during the booking process is always the cheapest option.
What is Frontier’s carry-on size?
Frontier’s carry-on size limit is 24 x 16 x 10 inches, including handles, straps, and wheels. Carry-on bags must also weigh no more than 35 lbs. Bags that exceed these dimensions will need to be checked and may incur additional fees.
Last updated and fact-checked: May 11, 2026.
What is Frontier’s personal item size?
Frontier’s personal item size limit is 14 x 18 x 8 inches. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples include purses, backpacks, briefcases, and laptop bags. Every Frontier passenger gets one free personal item.
Frontier carry-on weight limit.
Frontier’s carry-on weight limit is 35 lbs. This applies to paid carry-on bags only. Personal items, while free, don’t have a specified weight limit — but they still need to fit under the seat in front of you. If your carry-on exceeds 35 lbs, you may be asked to check it and pay the applicable checked bag fee.
Frontier carry-on pricing and when to buy.
Frontier charges a fee for carry-on bags and the price varies based on your route and when you purchase. Here’s what you need to know about timing:
- During booking: The cheapest option. Add your carry-on when you first book your flight to lock in the lowest rate.
- After booking (online): You can add a carry-on through Frontier’s website or app after booking, but expect to pay more than the initial booking price.
- At the airport or gate: This is typically the most expensive option. Waiting until check-in or boarding will cost you more than purchasing online ahead of time.
Use Frontier’s baggage allowance calculator to see the exact fees for your specific flight.
TSA liquid rules for Frontier carry-on bags.
Frontier follows standard TSA liquid rules for carry-on bags. Liquids, gels and aerosols need to be in containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less, and everything must fit into a single quart-sized clear bag. Each traveler gets one bag.
That matters more on Frontier, where carry-on space comes at a premium. If you’re sticking to a personal item, packing liquids smartly can help you avoid paying for a larger bag.
Items like shampoo, toothpaste, lotion, contact lens solution and makeup all count toward your limit. Medications, baby formula and breast milk are exempt, but may require additional screening.
What extra items can you bring on board?
In addition to your personal item and/or carry-on, you can bring onboard other items such as diaper bags (when traveling with an infant), canes, crutches, coats, and portable oxygen tanks for free. Note that these items should not exceed the prescribed carry-on dimensions.
You may also bring a stroller to the gate, but it must be checked from there. You won’t be charged a fee for checking a stroller or car seat.
Always be sure to review which items are not allowed in your carry-on to avoid having your things confiscated at the airport. If you’re unsure, this handy guide will help.
Frontier carry-on FAQs.
Frontier does not allow a free carry-on bag. Carry-on bags require an additional fee on all Frontier flights. However, every passenger does get one free personal item (14 x 18 x 8 inches) that fits under the seat.
If the backpack does not exceed 14 x 18 x 8 inches and fits under the seat, it is considered a personal item.
Yes, but keep in mind that you’ll have to pay for the carry-on bag. As long as your backpack fits the size and weight requirements, it’s counted as your (one) free personal item.
Frontier’s carry-on size policy is not especially strict. Still, it’s always best to familiarize yourself with their bag allowance regulations before you fly in order to avoid unnecessary hassles and fees.
Top three Frontier carry-on luggage tips.
from travel expert Lily Cichanowicz
1. Always book your extra baggage ahead of time if you can.
Like most airlines, if you wait till you get to the airport to buy carry-on luggage allowance, you’ll wind up paying more than if you purchase online.
There are a lot of different factors that go into determining how much your added carry-on bag will cost, but you can use their baggage allowance calculator to find out the costs associated with your particular flight reservation.
If you know you’re not a light packer and are trying to maximize space while staying within your baggage allowance, check out these expert tips.
2. Consider Frontier’s bundles for added perks.
You might find it useful to opt into Frontier packages that let you bring a carry-on item and give you other perks. For instance, the Economy bundle includes one carry-on bag, standard seat selection, and no change or cancel fees.
Meanwhile, Frontier’s Business bundle includes one carry-on bag, two checked bags up to 50 pounds each, UpFront Plus seat selection, and no change or cancel fees.
Depending on how many bags you want to bring on board or where you’re flying, it may be worth it to book a bundle as opposed to paying for only the carry-on item fee.
3. Do a luggage size check when you first arrive to the airport.
Avoid extra fees at the check-in counter or at your gate by doing a luggage size check. You can check both your personal item and carry-on using the carry-on checker, which is usually located near the check-in counter.
This will help you avoid any surprise penalties or fees. It’ll also give you a chance to reorganize to make sure everything meets Frontier’s carry-on size policy guidelines.
If you want to do a check-in, measure your luggage, or check a bag at the airport, it’s worth planning ahead. This guide will help you determine how early you should get to the airport.
