Is Frontier Airlines the Best Low-Cost US Airline? Honest Review

You know that feeling when you’re hunting for the cheapest possible flight and you come across an airfare that feels almost too good to be true? That’s how I first ended up booking with Frontier Airlines. As someone who loves to travel on a budget (and I mean serious budget), I couldn’t resist their rock-bottom prices. But, of course, I had questions—what’s the catch? Is it worth it? Will my seat even have padding? So, I packed my carry-on (and my curiosity) and set off to see what Frontier Airlines is all about. Spoiler alert: there’s a lot to unpack here! Let’s dive in.

If you’r interested in stories about other airline, be sure to look up our Singapore Airline and Emirates Airline. 

Frontier Airlines Keeps Travel Affordable : Booking and Pricing

When it comes to booking a flight with Frontier Airlines, the process is straightforward, but the pricing structure requires a bit of strategy. On the surface, their ultra-low fares can feel like a steal, but it’s important to understand how the add-ons work. Frontier operates on a pay-for-what-you-use model, meaning the base fare only covers your seat and a personal item. For everything else—like bags, seat selection, or even snacks—you’ll need to shell out some extra cash.

To help you make sense of it all, here’s a handy comparison table outlining what’s included in the base fare and what costs extra:

For budget-conscious travelers, the Discount Den Membership is a great option. At $59.99 annually (source: Frontier Airlines’ website), it unlocks exclusive deals, including the popular “Kids Fly Free” promo—a game-changer for families. Another option is the WORKS Bundle, which covers seat selection, baggage, and flight flexibility, making it ideal for those who want an all-inclusive experience without breaking the bank.

Personally, I opted for just the base fare and a personal item to keep costs low. Sure, I had to skip the frills, but the savings were worth it. If you’re strategic about what you pack and don’t mind sacrificing a little comfort, Frontier’s pricing can work in your favor. Just plan ahead and use the table above to weigh your options—it’ll save you from any surprises at checkout!

Some other promotions worth check out:

1. GOWOLD!All-You-Can-Fly 2025-26

2. Kids Fly For Free

Fleet and Seating on Frontier Airlines    

Flying with Frontier Airlines is an interesting experience, especially when it comes to their fleet and seating options. Frontier operates a fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft, including the A320neo, A319, and A321. These planes are known for their fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness, which aligns with Frontier’s focus on being an eco-conscious airline. It’s great to know that even as a budget carrier, they’re committed to reducing their carbon footprint.

Now, let’s talk about seating. Frontier’s seats are, shall we say, “no-frills.” The standard seats are slimline with limited padding, designed to maximize space and minimize costs. If you’re not picky about legroom or recline, they’ll get the job done for short flights. For me, the seats were fine for a two-hour trip, but I wouldn’t want to test their comfort on a longer flight. Keep in mind, the standard seats do not recline, which could be a dealbreaker for some.

If you’re willing to spend a little extra for comfort, Frontier offers Stretch Seats, which are their premium seating option. These seats have:

• Extra legroom (up to 36 inches compared to the standard 28-31 inches).
• A bit more cushioning.
• Full recline capability.

Stretch Seats are located in the front rows and exit rows of the plane, so you’ll also get priority boarding. On my flight, I debated upgrading to a Stretch Seat, but since I was traveling solo and on a budget, I stuck with the standard option.

Here’s a quick comparison of Frontier’s seating options:

For travelers who prioritize affordability, the standard seats are fine for shorter trips. But if you’re someone who values comfort or needs more legroom (hello, tall folks!), the Stretch Seats are a worthwhile upgrade.

Overall, Frontier’s seating matches their ultra-low-cost carrier model. It’s all about balancing what you’re willing to pay for versus what you’re willing to sacrifice. Personally, I found the standard seat tolerable for a short flight, but I’d definitely go for a Stretch Seat on a longer journey—because sometimes, a little extra comfort is totally worth it.

Check-In and Boarding with Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines offers multiple check-in options: online, via the mobile app, at airport kiosks, or at the counter. Online or app check-in is free and opens 24 hours before departure—definitely the most budget-friendly option. Avoid printing your boarding pass at the airport counter unless necessary; it costs $25 (source: Frontier Airlines website).

The boarding process is organized by zones, listed on your boarding pass. Early boarding is available for those who purchase priority boarding or Stretch Seats. If you’re in later zones, prepare for limited overhead bin space.

Quick Tips:

1. Check in online or via the app for free.
2. Download your mobile boarding pass to avoid fees.
3. Arrive early if you need an airport kiosk to avoid delays.

With a little planning, Frontier’s check-in and boarding process is hassle-free and wallet-friendly.

In-Flight Experience on Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines keeps things simple when it comes to the in-flight experience. Don’t expect luxury, but if you’re flying with your budget in mind, it’s not bad for what you pay. Here’s what stood out during my flight:

The cabin is clean and functional, with no unnecessary frills. The seats, while basic, are fine for short flights but might feel a bit stiff for longer trips. There’s no built-in entertainment system, so bring your own devices if you need something to pass the time. For me, a good book and downloaded movies on my phone did the trick.

Food and drinks aren’t included with your ticket, but you can purchase snacks and beverages onboard. Prices are reasonable for airline standards—think $3 for a soda and around $8 for a snack box. I skipped the snacks since I brought my own, which is a great way to save a few bucks.

One thing I appreciated was the crew. They were friendly and professional, which made the flight feel more enjoyable despite the minimalist setup. While Frontier’s ultra-low-cost approach means fewer amenities, their team did a good job maintaining a positive vibe throughout the flight.

Pro Tips for a Better Experience:

1. Bring your own snacks, water bottle, and entertainment to save money and stay comfortable.
2. If you’re tall or need extra space, consider upgrading to a Stretch Seat for more legroom.
3. Be prepared for no Wi-Fi or in-flight entertainment—download content ahead of time.

Overall, the in-flight experience with Frontier is exactly what you’d expect from a budget airline. It’s basic, but with a little preparation, you can still have a comfortable trip.

Customer Service

Frontier’s customer service reflects their budget model—it’s efficient but not particularly personalized. I had no issues during my flight, so I didn’t interact much with the staff beyond check-in and boarding. However, the flight attendants were polite and professional, which added a positive touch to the experience.

If you need assistance post-flight, their online customer service options are the fastest way to get help. They also have a call center, but be prepared for potential wait times. Pro tip: Use their live chat feature for quicker responses.

Comparison with Other US Airlines

Who Should Fly Frontier Airlines?

Frontier is ideal for travelers who prioritize cost over comfort. If you’re a solo traveler, student, or family looking for affordable flights, their low fares can’t be beaten—especially if you plan ahead and skip unnecessary add-ons. However, if you value amenities, extra legroom, or flexibility, you might find Frontier’s no-frills approach limiting.