Frontier Airlines is a low-cost airline in the United States. It was founded in 1994 and is headquartered in Denver, Colorado. The airline operates flights to over 100 destinations in the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. It is known for offering cheap fares and no-frills service. This makes it a good choice for budget travelers.
Frontier Airlines focuses on keeping prices low. To do this, they offer a base fare that includes only your seat and a personal item. If you want more, such as checked baggage, carry-on luggage, or seat selection, you must pay extra. This pricing model helps travelers choose what they want to pay for. It is different from many other famous airlines that include more services in their base fare.
Understanding Frontier Airlines Tickets
Types of Tickets
When you book a Frontier Airlines flight, you can choose from different ticket types. These include:
- Standard Fare: This is the most basic option. It includes a seat and one personal item. Everything else costs extra.
- Discount Den Fare: This fare is only available to members of Frontier’s Discount Den program. It gives access to lower fares and special deals.
- Bundle Options: Frontier offers bundle packages like “The Works” and “The Perks.” These bundles add services such as carry-on bags, checked bags, seat selection, and refundability.
The Works Bundle
- One carry-on bag
- One checked bag
- Seat selection
- Priority boarding
- Refundable ticket
- No change fees
The Perks Bundle
- One carry-on bag
- One checked bag
- Seat selection
- Priority boarding
These bundles can save you money if you plan to use these services anyway.
How to Book a Frontier Airline Ticket
Booking a ticket is easy. You can go to Frontier Airlines’ website or use their mobile app. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the website: www.flyfrontier.com
- Enter your departure and destination cities
- Choose your travel dates
- Select your flight from the list of available options
- Choose your fare type
- Add extras like baggage or seat selection
- Enter passenger information
- Make payment
Once done, you will receive an email with your confirmation and itinerary.
Baggage Policies
Baggage is not included in the standard ticket price. You need to pay extra for carry-on and checked bags. The earlier you buy these extras, the cheaper they are.
- Personal item: Free (must fit under the seat)
- Carry-on bag: Paid
- Checked bag: Paid
You can add baggage during booking, after booking, or at the airport. It is cheapest to buy online during booking.
Bag Fees (Approximate)
Bag Type | During Booking | After Booking | At Airport |
---|---|---|---|
Carry-on Bag | $30 – $40 | $45 – $55 | $60+ |
Checked Bag | $30 – $35 | $40 – $50 | $55+ |
Seat Selection
Frontier charges a fee for seat selection. If you do not choose a seat, one will be assigned to you randomly. Prices for seat selection depend on the seat location and time of booking.
- Standard seats cost less
- Stretch seats (with more legroom) cost more
You can skip seat selection to save money, but you may not sit with your travel companions.
Frontier Miles Loyalty Program
Frontier offers a loyalty program called Frontier Miles. Members earn miles when they fly or use partner services. Miles can be redeemed for free flights.
Benefits of Frontier Miles:
- Earn miles for flights
- Redeem miles for flights
- Elite status levels offer extra perks
- Family pooling to share miles with others
You can join the program for free on their website.
Discount Den Membership
Discount Den is a membership program that gives access to lower fares.
- Costs $59.99 per year
- Offers exclusive deals
- Members can bring up to 9 people on the same reservation at the discounted price
If you fly often, this can be a good way to save money.
Change and Cancellation Policies
Frontier offers flexible options if your plans change.
- Changes can be made up to 24 hours before departure
- Change fees depend on the fare and time of change
- Refunds are only available with The Works bundle
Change Fees:
Time Before Departure | Change Fee |
60+ days | $0 |
59 – 7 days | $49 |
6 days – Day of flight | $99 |
If you buy The Works bundle, you won’t pay change fees, and your ticket is refundable.
Tips for Saving Money on Frontier Flights
Book Early
Frontier ticket prices are usually lowest when booked in advance. Last-minute fares can be more expensive.
Travel Light
Since bags cost extra, travel with only a personal item to save money.
Use the App
Frontier’s app offers mobile check-in, boarding passes, and alerts. It can also give access to deals.
Join Frontier Miles and Discount Den
These programs offer ways to earn rewards and save money on tickets.
Avoid Airport Fees
Buying extras like baggage and seat selection at the airport is more expensive. Purchase them online during booking.
Frontier vs. Other Low-Cost Airlines
Frontier Airlines is similar to other low-cost carriers like Spirit and Allegiant. It focuses on keeping base fares low by offering fewer included services.
Feature | Frontier | Spirit | Allegiant |
Base Fare | Very Low | Very Low | Low |
Baggage Fees | Extra | Extra | Extra |
Seat Selection | Extra | Extra | Extra |
Loyalty Program | Frontier Miles | Free Spirit | Allways Rewards |
Bundle Options | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Compared to famous airlines like Delta or American, Frontier includes fewer services. But if you travel light and plan ahead, it can be much cheaper.
Safety and Customer Service
Frontier Airlines meets all safety standards set by the FAA. The airline operates a fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft. These planes are modern and fuel-efficient.
Customer service reviews for Frontier are mixed. Some people appreciate the low fares, while others are unhappy about extra fees. It is important to read the terms before booking to avoid surprises.
Traveling with Children
Frontier allows children under 15 to travel with an adult. Children under 2 can sit on an adult’s lap for free. If you want a seat for the child, you must pay for it.
Frontier also offers a family-friendly seating policy. If you do not choose seats, the system tries to keep families together. However, it is not guaranteed unless you pay for seat selection.
Frontier’s Environmental Efforts
Frontier claims to be one of the most fuel-efficient U.S. airlines. They use newer aircraft with lower fuel use. They also aim to reduce their carbon footprint with sustainable practices.
- New Airbus aircraft with better fuel efficiency
- Lightweight seats and cabins
- Optional carbon offset during booking
Pros and Cons of Frontier Airlines
Pros
- Very low base fares
- Option to customize your travel
- Membership programs for savings
- Good route coverage in the U.S.
Cons
- Extra fees can add up
- Limited included services
- Mixed customer service reviews
- No in-flight entertainment or Wi-Fi
Conclusion
Buying a Frontier Airlines flight can be a smart choice if you are looking for cheap travel. The key is understanding what the base fare includes and planning ahead. Add only the services you need to keep your airline ticket affordable. Compared to famous airlines, you may have fewer amenities, but the savings can be worth it.
Whether you are a frequent traveler or planning a vacation, Frontier offers a flexible way to fly on a budget. Just remember to read all the details when booking and prepare in advance. That way, you can enjoy your trip without unexpected costs or issues.