Last Updated: September 5, 2026
Quick Answer
Frontier Airlines includes one personal item with every ticket, but a carry-on is not automatically free. The personal item can measure up to 14 × 18 × 8 inches, while a carry-on can be up to 24 × 16 × 10 inches and 35 lb. A carry-on may be purchased separately or included with an eligible bundle or benefit. Frontier currently allows passengers to check in through its mobile app starting 24 hours before departure, with check-in and checked-bag acceptance closing 60 minutes before departure.
Frontier Carry-On and Check-In at a Glance
| Travel detail | Frontier Airlines rule |
| Personal item | 1 free with every ticket |
| Personal item size | 14 × 18 × 8 inches |
| Carry-on size | 24 × 16 × 10 inches |
| Carry-on weight | Up to 35 lb |
| Carry-on included? | Depends on fare, bundle or eligible benefit |
| Check-in opens | 24 hours before departure |
| Check-in cutoff | 60 minutes before departure |
| Mobile check-in | Available through the Frontier app |
| Boarding cutoff | 20 minutes before departure |
Frontier’s published baggage and check-in information confirms these current limits and timings.
Personal Item or Carry-On: Which One Can You Bring?
The easiest way to understand Frontier’s cabin baggage rules is to separate the free personal item from the larger carry-on.
| Personal Item | Carry-On | |
| Included | Yes, 1 per passenger | Depends on fare/bundle/benefit |
| Maximum size | 14 × 18 × 8 in | 24 × 16 × 10 in |
| Maximum weight | 35 lb | 35 lb |
| Storage | Under the seat | Overhead bin |
| Examples | Purse, tote, laptop bag, small backpack | Small suitcase, duffel, large backpack |
You can bring both a personal item and a carry-on when your ticket or purchase includes the carry-on. Frontier requires the personal item to fit under the seat, while the carry-on must fit in the overhead bin.
What Is the Frontier Airlines Personal Item Size?
The Frontier Airlines personal item size is 14 × 18 × 8 inches, including handles, wheels and straps. It must fit under the seat in front of you, and one personal item is included with every ticket.
Frontier lists purses, totes, computer bags, briefcases and children’s backpacks among examples of personal items. The airline checks personal-item size during boarding, so an oversized bag can result in an additional charge.
Simple tip: Pack the bag first, then measure it. A bag that fits the dimensions when empty may become too large once fully packed.
If you are trying to travel without purchasing additional baggage, a properly sized personal item is the simplest option.
What Is the Frontier Airlines Carry-On Size?
The current Frontier carry-on size is 24 × 16 × 10 inches, including handles, wheels and straps. The maximum carry-on weight is 35 lb.
Carry-ons are designed to go in the overhead bin. Frontier says that if overhead space is unavailable, a properly sized carry-on may be gate-checked at no additional cost.
If the bag itself exceeds Frontier’s published carry-on dimensions, it may be subject to an additional charge when checked at the gate.
For detailed bag pricing and checked-bag rules, see our Frontier Airlines baggage fees guide rather than relying on a general carry-on price.
Is a Carry-On Free on Frontier?
Not with every Frontier ticket. One personal item is included with every ticket, but a carry-on may need to be purchased separately unless it is included with your fare bundle or qualifying Frontier benefit.
Frontier’s current published information says carry-ons can be purchased when booking, and eligible bundles or Frontier Miles Elite benefits may include a carry-on.
Because carry-on prices can vary, check your booking before paying for a bag that may already be included.
For a detailed explanation of baggage pricing and how purchase timing affects the cost, see our Frontier baggage fees page.
When Is a Frontier Carry-On Included?
Your carry-on may already be covered depending on how you booked your trip.
| Situation | Carry-On |
| Base fare without an eligible benefit | Usually requires separate purchase |
| Eligible bundle | May be included |
| FRONTIER Miles Elite member | Free carry-on benefit |
| WORKS or PERKS purchase | Carry-on included according to Frontier’s published terms |
| Already purchased separately | Allowed within the size and weight limits |
Frontier’s current optional-services information states that FRONTIER Miles Elite members receive a free carry-on and that certain bundles include carry-on and checked baggage.
Your individual reservation is the best place to confirm exactly what is included.
How to Measure a Frontier Carry-On Correctly
Do not measure only the main body of your suitcase. Frontier’s dimensions include handles, wheels and straps.
Before leaving home:
- Pack the bag as you plan to travel.
- Extend the handles and account for the wheels.
- Measure the height, width and depth.
- Compare the measurements with Frontier’s limits.
- Weigh the bag if it is close to 35 lb.
For a carry-on, the maximum is 24 × 16 × 10 inches and 35 lb. For a personal item, the maximum is 14 × 18 × 8 inches and it must fit under the seat.
This small check at home can prevent an unexpected baggage issue at boarding.
Frontier Airlines Check-In: When Does It Open?
Frontier check-in opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure. The current check-in cutoff is 60 minutes before departure for both domestic and international flights.
A simple timeline is:
- 24 hours before departure: Check-in opens
- About 2 hours before departure: Frontier recommends arriving at the airport
- 60 minutes before departure: Check-in and checked-bag acceptance close
- About 45 minutes before departure: Boarding typically begins
- 20 minutes before departure: Boarding ends
Frontier states that passengers must be at the gate by the boarding cutoff even if they have already completed check-in.
Can You Check In Online With Frontier?
Frontier currently directs passengers to use its mobile app for check-in. The airline’s current check-in page says check-in is available through the Frontier mobile app, where passengers can also obtain their boarding pass.
The app allows you to:
- Check in for your flight
- Access your itinerary
- Get your mobile boarding pass
- Manage your trip
- Add or manage available travel options
If you have your mobile boarding pass and are not checking a bag, Frontier says you can skip the airport line and proceed toward the gate.
How Do You Get a Frontier Boarding Pass?
After completing check-in in the Frontier app, your mobile boarding pass is available through My Trip. Frontier says you can access it by opening the app, selecting My Trip and entering your last name and confirmation code if needed.
If you prefer a printed boarding pass, Frontier says one can be obtained at the airport through its agent-assistance service, which may involve a fee.
Keep your boarding pass ready before reaching security and the gate.
Frontier Airport Check-In: What Should You Expect?
If you need airport assistance, Frontier provides self-service kiosks and airport service options. Kiosks can be used for certain check-in and bag-tag functions, depending on the airport.
If you have already checked in and have no checked bag, you can generally go directly to security with your mobile boarding pass. If you have a checked bag, you must complete the baggage process before the applicable cutoff.
Frontier recommends arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, giving you time for security, baggage and other airport procedures.
What If You Are Checking a Bag?
If you have checked baggage, do not wait until the last few minutes before departure.
Frontier’s current check-in page states that checked-bag acceptance closes 60 minutes before departure.
The current standard checked-bag limit is 62 linear inches and 40 lb. Additional charges can apply when baggage exceeds the standard limits.
If you are comparing a checked bag with a carry-on, our Frontier Airlines baggage fees guide covers the separate baggage rules and pricing considerations.
What Happens If Your Carry-On Is Too Large?
If your carry-on exceeds Frontier’s 24 × 16 × 10-inch limit, it may be subject to an additional charge when checked at the gate. Frontier states that carry-on size is checked during boarding.
If your bag meets the size limit but there is no overhead space, Frontier says the bag may be gate-checked without an additional charge.
The best way to avoid an unexpected issue is to measure your bag before leaving home rather than relying on the label from the luggage manufacturer.
Does Frontier’s Board First Option Guarantee Overhead Space?
Yes, when the applicable Board First conditions are met. Frontier says customers who purchase Board First with a carry-on board with Group 1, which guarantees overhead bin space for that carry-on.
This can be useful if keeping your carry-on in the overhead bin is particularly important to you.
Board First is separate from the basic carry-on allowance, so check your booking to see whether it is available or already included.
TSA Rules Still Apply to Your Carry-On
Frontier’s baggage allowance does not change TSA security requirements. An item being within Frontier’s size limit does not automatically mean it is permitted through airport security.
Before packing your carry-on, check the current TSA rules for items such as:
- Liquids and gels
- Batteries and power banks
- Sharp objects
- Aerosols
- Sporting equipment
- Medications
For broader guidance on carry-on restrictions and airline rules, see our airline carry-on and check-in rules.
Special Travel Situations
Traveling With an Infant
Families traveling with infants should check Frontier’s current rules for child-related equipment and baggage before departure. Certain essential baby gear may receive different treatment from standard baggage. Frontier also lists essential baby gear among items that can be carried or checked at no charge under applicable conditions.
Passengers With Accessibility Needs
Frontier states that certain assistive devices, including wheelchairs and respiratory devices, are exempt from carry-on charges. Applicable rules can depend on the equipment, so confirm the requirements before traveling.
Sports and Special Equipment
Sports equipment may have its own handling and baggage requirements. Do not assume that a sports item qualifies as an ordinary carry-on simply because its packed dimensions appear to fit the cabin limit.
If you need help with a booking or baggage-related question, our Frontier Airlines customer service guide can help you find the appropriate support option.
Common Frontier Carry-On and Check-In Mistakes
Avoid these common problems before heading to the airport:
- Assuming your carry-on is free: Check your fare, bundle and eligible benefits first.
- Confusing your personal item with a carry-on: They have different maximum dimensions.
- Ignoring wheels and handles: Frontier includes them in the published measurements.
- Measuring an empty bag: Measure it in the condition you will actually travel with it.
- Waiting until the last minute to check in: The current cutoff is 60 minutes before departure.
- Forgetting about checked-bag deadlines: Bag acceptance closes with the applicable check-in cutoff.
- Arriving too close to departure: Frontier recommends arriving around 2 hours early.
- Assuming check-in is still available on the website: Frontier’s current check-in page directs passengers to its mobile app.
Simple Tips Before Your Frontier Flight
- Measure your personal item before packing for the airport.
- Keep your carry-on within 24 × 16 × 10 inches and 35 lb.
- Check your reservation to see whether a carry-on is already included.
- Add baggage in advance if you need it; Frontier says airport prices are higher.
- Check in through the Frontier app when the 24-hour window opens.
- Save your mobile boarding pass before leaving for the airport.
- Arrive around 2 hours before departure.
- If you are checking a bag, leave enough time to complete bag drop before the cutoff.
- If overhead space is especially important, review the Board First option.
- For detailed baggage pricing, use our Frontier Airlines baggage fees guide.
Frontier Airlines Carry-On & Check-In: Key Takeaways
- One personal item is included with every Frontier ticket.
- The personal item can measure up to 14 × 18 × 8 inches and must fit under the seat.
- A Frontier carry-on can measure up to 24 × 16 × 10 inches and weigh up to 35 lb.
- A carry-on is not automatically included with every ticket.
- Eligible bundles and Frontier Miles benefits can include a carry-on.
- Frontier currently allows check-in beginning 24 hours before departure.
- The current check-in cutoff is 60 minutes before departure for domestic and international flights.
- Frontier currently directs passengers to its mobile app for check-in.
- A correctly sized carry-on may be gate-checked at no additional cost if overhead space is unavailable.
- Boarding ends 20 minutes before departure, so completing check-in does not mean you can arrive at the gate at the last minute.
FAQ: Frontier Airlines Carry-On & Check-In
What is the Frontier Airlines carry-on size?
The maximum Frontier carry-on size is 24 × 16 × 10 inches and 35 lb. The measurement includes handles, wheels and straps. The bag must fit in the overhead bin.
Is a carry-on free on Frontier Airlines?
Not automatically. Every ticket includes one personal item, while a carry-on may require a separate purchase unless it is included with an eligible bundle or Frontier benefit.
How late can I check in for Frontier?
The current check-in cutoff is 60 minutes before departure. Frontier applies this cutoff to both domestic and international flights on its current check-in page.
How do I get a Frontier boarding pass?
Complete check-in through the Frontier mobile app and access your boarding pass through My Trip. If you need a printed boarding pass, Frontier also provides airport options, subject to applicable fees.
What happens if my Frontier carry-on is too big?
A carry-on that exceeds Frontier’s published dimensions may be subject to an additional charge when checked at the gate. Frontier checks carry-on size during boarding, so measuring your bag before travel is the safest approach.
Do I need to visit the airport counter if I only have a carry-on?
Not usually, if you have already checked in and have your mobile boarding pass. Frontier says passengers with a mobile boarding pass who are not checking a bag can proceed directly to the gate.
What is the Frontier personal item size?
Frontier’s personal-item limit is 14 × 18 × 8 inches. One personal item is included with every ticket and must fit under the seat in front of you. Handles, wheels and straps count toward the dimensions.
When does Frontier Airlines check-in open?
Frontier check-in opens 24 hours before scheduled departure. The current check-in window closes 60 minutes before departure.
Can I check in online with Frontier?
Frontier currently directs passengers to check in through its mobile app. The app can also provide your mobile boarding pass.
Can I add a carry-on after booking Frontier?
Yes. Frontier allows passengers to manage their trip and add bags after booking. The airline recommends purchasing bags in advance because airport prices are higher.
What happens if the overhead bins are full?
A properly sized carry-on may be gate-checked at no additional cost if overhead space is unavailable. Frontier’s Board First option is designed to provide Group 1 boarding and guarantee overhead bin space when its conditions are met.
Editorial Review: This guide was reviewed against current Frontier Airlines information covering carry-on dimensions, personal-item requirements, baggage handling, mobile check-in, boarding passes and check-in deadlines. Frontier policies can change, so travelers should confirm the requirements attached to their specific reservation before departure.
Frontier Airlines carry-on rules, check-in procedures, baggage requirements and fees may change. Always verify the latest information with Frontier Airlines before your flight.
FlyTripInfo.com is an independent travel information website and is not affiliated with Frontier Airlines. This page is provided for general informational purposes and is not official Frontier Airlines customer support
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