Is Frontier a Good Airline? Customer Review Analysis

Frontier Airlines is well-known for offering ultra-low base fares that can initially seem too good to pass up. At first glance, it may look like you’re scoring a major deal on your airfare. However, what many travelers don’t realize is that those low prices often come with a long list of additional fees. Frontier follows a “bare-bones” model, meaning the ticket price only covers your seat on the plane; everything else comes at an additional cost. Whether it’s choosing your seat, bringing a carry-on bag, checking luggage, or even getting a bottle of water onboard, these extras can quickly add up. 

For a short solo trip, the pricing model might still be worth it. But for longer vacations or family travel, the final cost can exceed what you’d pay with a full-service airline. So, is Frontier Airlines cheaper once all fees are considered? The answer is no, not always, especially when extra services are added. Considering this, we are drafting this detailed blog through which passengers can get to know all the pros and cons of Frontier Airlines. For more details, you can contact the airline at 801-401-9000.

How Frontier Charges Extra at Every Step?

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how Frontier Airlines charges extra at every step.

Basic Fare Only Covers the Essentials

Frontier Airlines offers very low base fares to attract budget travelers. However, these base fares include only the bare essentials: a single seat and one small personal item, such as a purse or backpack, that must fit under the seat in front of you. Unlike many other airlines, Frontier does not include carry-on bags, checked luggage, or even seat selection in the initial ticket price. This means if you want to bring more than a small personal item or choose a specific seat, you’ll have to pay extra. This “a la carte” pricing keeps upfront costs low but can add up depending on your needs.

Baggage Costs Add Up Quickly

If you plan to bring more than just a personal item, baggage fees are where many passengers face unexpected expenses. Carry-on bags typically cost between $30 and $60, depending on when and where you pay. Booking these bags online during your initial purchase usually offers the lowest prices. However, if you wait until closer to your flight or try to check a bag at the gate, fees can rise significantly. Checked bags cost between $35 and $60 per bag, with prices similarly increasing the closer you get to departure. These fees can quickly double or triple your total cost, so it’s important to plan and pay early if possible.

Seat Selection and Comfort Come at a Price

Frontier also charges separately for seat selection, with prices ranging from $1 to $49 depending on the seat location and how much legroom it offers. Standard seats toward the back of the plane or in the middle rows tend to be the cheapest, while seats with extra legroom or at the front of the plane cost more. Frontier calls these premium seats “Stretch” or “UpFront Plus.” While they do offer more space, none of the seats recline. So if you want comfort, you’ll need to pay a premium on top of your base fare.

Extra Charges for Services and Support

 In addition to bags and seats, Frontier charges for a variety of other services. Priority boarding, for example, costs between $8 and $20, as does traveling with a pet in the cabin. Even phone support usually comes with an additional fee, which is uncommon among airlines. Frontier’s no-frills approach means snacks, drinks, and bottled water are not free; they must be purchased on board, often at prices higher than what you’d pay outside the airport.

Bundles Offer Better Value

To simplify fees and save money, Frontier offers three bundles: the Economy Bundle, which includes a carry-on bag, checked bag, and seat selection; the Premium Bundle, which adds extra legroom and early boarding; and the Business Bundle, which includes two checked bags and priority services. Purchasing a bundle upfront can often be cheaper and less stressful than paying for each item separately, especially for travelers who need bags and want to choose seats.

Is Frontier Airlines Safe?

Many people wonder, Is Frontier Airlines safe? The answer is yes. Even though Frontier is a low-cost airline, it takes safety very seriously. Frontier flies mostly newer planes called Airbus A320s. These planes are about 4 to 5 years old, which means they have modern safety features and are well cared for. The airline has important safety certificates from big organizations like the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Frontier has never had any major accidents, which is a great sign. It is even ranked as one of the safest ultra-low-cost airlines in recent reviews. While Frontier’s flights may not have many extras like comfy seats or free snacks, passengers can feel safe flying with them. So, if you want to save money but still fly safely, Frontier Airlines is a good option. Your safety is important to them, even if other parts of the experience are more basic.

Smart Tips to Fly Frontier Cheaply & Smoothly

Here are the tips to follow for a smart and convenient flight with Frontier Airlines. 

• Book all extras during your initial ticket purchase: This includes bags, seat selection, and any add-ons. Booking these later, or at the airport, will cost significantly more.
• Join Discount Den if you’re a frequent flyer or traveling with others: This membership offers exclusive low fares and applies to up to nine people on the same reservation, making it ideal for families or group travel.
• Pack your snacks and a refillable water bottle: Frontier does not offer complimentary food or drinks, so bringing your own helps you save money and stay comfortable.
• Fully charge your phone or tablet before boarding: There are no seatback screens or charging ports on Frontier flights, so bring entertainment and ensure your devices are ready.
• Check-in online or through the Frontier mobile app: Doing this early can help you avoid extra fees at the airport and streamline your boarding process.
• Select nonstop flights whenever possible: Nonstop routes reduce the risk of delays and missed connections, especially since Frontier has limited rebooking options.
• Use text or chat support if issues arise: These channels are often faster and more efficient than calling customer service by phone.
• Avoid overpacking: Stick to a personal item that fits under the seat to avoid carry-on or checked-bag fees.
• Double-check your terminal and gate: Frontier sometimes uses alternate terminals, so confirm this before arriving at the airport.
• Arrive early: Give yourself extra time for check-in, security, and boarding, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Frontier’s procedures.

Conclusion

Frontier Airlines can be a smart choice, but only if you know what to expect. It’s best for travelers who want the lowest possible fare, can travel light with just a personal item, and don’t mind giving up comfort or amenities. If you’re flexible, budget-focused, and okay with no-frills service, Frontier can save you a lot. However, it’s not for everyone. Seats are tight, customer service is limited, and even water costs extra. 

Delays happen, and you’ll often need to manage rebookings yourself online. If you need comfort, reliability, or strong support, a legacy airline may be a better fit. Frontier works best as a tool. perfect when used for short trips, solo travel, or flexible plans. But use it in the wrong situation, like with lots of luggage or high expectations, and the hidden costs can outweigh the savings. In short, fly Frontier when price matters most and you’re prepared. Plan, and understand the rules, and it can be a very good deal.

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