Is Frontier Airlines Worth It? What to Know Before You Book

With the recent shutdown of Spirit Airlines, a lot of budget travelers are suddenly looking for alternatives.

For years, Spirit and Frontier Airlines served a similar kind of traveler: someone who cared more about getting there affordably than having extra comfort or perks.

And if you were loyal to Spirit’s ultra-budget model, Frontier will probably be one of the first airlines you consider.

Spirit officially ceased operations in early May 2026, and Frontier has openly acknowledged that it expects to absorb some of that budget-travel demand on overlapping routes.

That’s part of why I wanted to write this review.

As someone who flies at least once or twice a month, I’ve flown my fair share of airlines and while Frontier gets mixed reviews online, I keep coming back to it for one simple reason: for short domestic flights, it works.

Not because it’s luxurious.
Not because it’s comfortable.
Not because it has amazing perks.

But because it gets me where I’m going for less money. And honestly, that’s often enough for me.

If you’re considering flying Frontier, especially as a former Spirit flyer or a budget traveler looking for options, this review will help you understand what to expect before you book.

My Experience Flying Frontier Airlines

I fly out of DFW International Airport often, and one thing I appreciate about Frontier is that they consistently offer affordable routes from my home airport.

That convenience matters.

When I’m booking a short domestic trip, especially something under three hours, I’m usually asking myself:

• How cheap is the fare?
• Is it nonstop?
• Does it fit my schedule?

Frontier checks those boxes often.

And when the difference between Frontier and another airline can be $150–$300 roundtrip, that adds up fast when you travel often.

Frontier Is a Budget Airline — And It Feels Like One

Let’s be honest. Frontier is not the airline you book for comfort.

The seats are thinner.
The legroom can feel tighter.
Everything extra costs money.

This is very much a get you where you’re going airline. If you’re expecting the comfort of Delta Air Lines or the amenities of Southwest Airlines, this probably isn’t your best fit.

But if your goal is simply getting from Point A to Point B without overspending? That’s where Frontier shines.

Why I Got the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard

Here’s the thing about Frontier:

The airfare looks cheap… until you add bags.

That’s where the additional fees can catch you. And if you’ve flown Frontier before, you already know baggage fees can quickly wipe out your savings.

That’s the main reason I got the Frontier Mastercard. For bags. That was the deciding factor for me ( 2 free checked bags on Frontier-operated flights for the primary cardholder.)

Because if I’m going to keep booking Frontier regularly, I need to solve the biggest pain point and getting the Frontier Mastercard did just that.

One Frontier Mistake I See Travelers Make Often: Assuming You’ll Sit Together

This is one of the biggest mistakes I see people make. They skip seat selection to save money and assume the airline will seat them together anyway.

And yes, sometimes that works.

But I’ve also seen it not work many, many times. Frontier’s model is built around optional add-ons and seat selection is one of them. If you don’t pay for your seat, you’re leaving it up to the system.

That can mean:

• Sitting in a middle seat
• Being separated from your travel companion
• Parents sitting apart from children

If you’re traveling alone and don’t care where you sit, skipping seat selection can absolutely save money. But if you’re counting on sitting with a child, partner or friend should you risk not upgrading your seat selection? No.

Could it work out?

Sure.

Should you count on it?

No.

Are Frontier Flights Reliable?

This is where my personal experience differs from what a lot of people expect.

I’ve actually had fewer issues flying Frontier than on some larger airlines.

That doesn’t mean delays never happen. But flying as often as I do, I’ve personally had smoother experiences than I expected.

And from a safety standpoint, Frontier ranked highly in recent airline safety evaluations and operates one of the youngest fleets among U.S. carriers.

A budget airline does not mean unsafe. That’s an important distinction.

Who Should Fly Frontier?

Frontier is a great fit if:

• You’re taking a short domestic trip
• Price matters most
• You’re traveling light
• You don’t mind minimal extras
• You’re flexible

Frontier may not be the best fit if:

• Comfort is your priority
• You want included baggage
• You want premium service
• You’re flying longer routes
• You want more flexibility built into your fare

Is Frontier Worth It?

Honestly? Yes, for the right traveler.

If you understand what Frontier is and how it works, it can be one of the best budget airline options for domestic travel.

You just have to book smart. For me, pairing Frontier flights with the Frontier Mastercard has made the experience significantly better because it removes the part I dislike most: baggage fees.

Would I book Frontier for a luxury vacation?

No.

Would I book it for a quick domestic trip or weekend getaway?

Absolutely.

Because sometimes the best flight isn’t the fanciest one. It’s the one that gets you there without draining your travel budget.

Find cheap Frontier flights here.

Frontier Airlines FAQ