Last updated: February 2026
Frontier Airlines carry on size rules in 2026 allow paid cabin bags up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches, while personal items must fit within 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Frontier aggressively enforces these dimensions at the gate, especially on full flights.
If you are flying Frontier Airlines, understanding the exact carry on size limits is critical to avoiding unexpected baggage fees.
This complete guide covers Frontier Airlines carry on size, personal item size, baggage fees, weight limits, enforcement practices, and how strict Frontier really is.
airline carry on size comparison
Frontier Airlines Carry On Size (2026)
The official Frontier Airlines carry on size limit is:
24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 41 x 25 cm)
Important:
- This is a paid carry-on.
- It must fit in the overhead bin.
- It includes wheels and handles.
Unlike many legacy airlines, Frontier does not include a free overhead carry-on in its base fare.
You must purchase this separately unless bundled in a fare package.
Frontier Personal Item Size (Free Allowance)
Every Frontier ticket includes one free personal item.
The official Frontier personal item size is:
18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
This bag must:
- Fit completely under the seat
- Include wheels and handles in measurement
- Not exceed sizer dimensions
This is one of the strictest personal item size limits in the United States.
Frontier Carry On Weight Limit
Frontier Airlines does not publish a strict carry on weight limit for domestic flights.
However:
- Bags must be safely liftable into the overhead bin.
- Gate agents may intervene if a bag appears excessively heavy.
- Oversized or overweight bags may be gate-checked.
For comparison across airlines, see our complete carry on weight limits by airline guide.
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Frontier Baggage Fees (2026)
Frontier baggage fees vary depending on:
- Route
- Fare bundle
- When the bag is purchased
Typical 2026 carry on pricing:
- $35–$65 when purchased during booking
- $65–$99 at the gate
Personal items remain free.
Checked bags are charged separately.
Buying carry-on baggage at the gate is the most expensive option.
How Strict Is Frontier With Carry On Size?
Frontier Airlines is considered:
Extremely Strict
Enforcement characteristics:
- Sizers placed at boarding gates
- Active bag measurement checks
- Gate agents incentivized to enforce size compliance
- Higher enforcement on peak travel days
If your bag does not fit inside the metal sizer frame, you will be required to pay a gate fee.
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Frontier Sizer Dimensions Explained
The personal item sizer matches:
18 x 14 x 8 inches
The carry-on sizer matches:
24 x 16 x 10 inches
Expandable luggage often exceeds these dimensions when overpacked.
Always measure wheels and handles.
Frontier Carry On vs Personal Item: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Personal Item | Carry On |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Yes | No |
| Size | 18 x 14 x 8 | 24 x 16 x 10 |
| Placement | Under seat | Overhead bin |
| Fee | Included | Paid |
| Strictness | Very strict | Extremely strict |
If you are traveling light, maximizing the personal item size can eliminate baggage fees entirely.
What Happens If Your Bag Is Too Large?
If your bag exceeds Frontier carry on size:
- You will be charged a gate fee.
- The bag may be checked.
- Fees are significantly higher at boarding.
Gate fees can exceed $90.
Frontier Airlines Baggage Policy Overview
Frontier operates as an ultra low cost carrier.
Key elements of the baggage policy:
- Base fare includes one personal item only.
- All overhead cabin bags cost extra.
- Checked baggage costs extra.
- Bundles may include carry-on.
This structure is designed to keep base fares low while generating ancillary revenue.
Frontier Airlines Carry On Size Compared to Other Airlines
Frontier’s 24 x 16 x 10 inches limit is slightly larger than:
- 22 x 14 x 9 inches (standard US carriers)
However:
The lack of free carry-on makes enforcement stricter than legacy airlines like Delta or American.
Best Bags for Frontier Airlines Carry On Size
When choosing luggage for Frontier:
- Stay slightly under 24 x 16 x 10 inches
- Avoid over-expansion
- Choose lightweight materials
- Consider soft-shell designs
For underseat travel:
Choose bags designed specifically for 18 x 14 x 8 inches compliance.
Frontier Airlines Enforcement Index Score
Based on:
- Gate measurement frequency
- Passenger reports
- Fee structure
- Boarding behavior
Frontier ranks:
9/10 Strictness Level
Only Spirit rivals Frontier in enforcement intensity.
Pro Tips for Avoiding Frontier Baggage Fees
- Measure your bag including wheels.
- Purchase baggage during booking.
- Avoid expandable sections.
- Keep weight manageable.
- Board early if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Frontier Airlines carry on size?
Frontier Airlines carry on size is 24 x 16 x 10 inches and requires a fee unless bundled in a fare package.
What is Frontier personal item size?
Frontier personal item size is 18 x 14 x 8 inches and is included in all base fares.
Does Frontier weigh carry on bags?
Frontier does not publish a strict weight limit, but bags must be safely liftable.
Is Frontier strict about bag size?
Yes. Frontier is extremely strict and frequently uses sizers at the gate.
Final Verdict
Frontier Airlines carry on size rules are straightforward but aggressively enforced.
To avoid unexpected fees:
- Stay within 18 x 14 x 8 inches for free travel.
- Purchase carry-on bags in advance.
- Never assume leniency at the gate.
Preparation is essential when flying Frontier.