Guide to United Airlines Baggage Policy & Fees

Are you planning your next trip with United Airlines? Before you start packing, understand the United Airlines baggage policy so that you do not have to worry later at the airport. United Airlines allows you to bring bags along for your flight with some weight and size restrictions. Besides, you can either choose to keep the bags with you or check them into their baggage hold.

Read the following guide to understand how much luggage you are allowed to bring on the plane when flying with United Airlines. For any domestic or international flight, knowing the ins and outs of the baggage policy will add a big difference to your travel experience.

What is United Airlines Baggage Policy?

United Airlines baggage policy has specific rules and regulations when it comes to the number of baggage allowed, weight, size and fee associated with different types of luggage. To avoid any last-minute surprise at the airport, it is important to know the basics. Here are the outlined policies for the passenger.

• You can bring one personal item and one carry-on item for free.
• There will be applicable charges for checked or hold luggage.
• You will be charged an applicable fee based on weight and size categories for overweight and oversize bags.
• In case you are flying with a basic economy ticket, then do note there will be limitations to carry luggage. Moreover, your carry-on should be checked at the gate for a fee.
• The fees for your sports equipment will depend on the type of equipment you are flying with.

United Airlines Carry-On Baggage Rules

When it comes to flying with carry-on baggage, United Airlines has its separate rules and regulations which are quite important to know. Following these rules will help you save any extra charges at the airport.

• You can carry one personal item for free when traveling in the United Basic Economy.
• For flights within the Pacific, Atlantic, or South America, you can bring one carry-on bag with you in Basic Economy.
• Star Alliance Gold members, MileagePlus members with Premier status, or those flying with a MileagePlus member can bring only one carry-on for free.
• The carry-on baggage should not exceed 9 in x 14 in x 22 in (22 x 35 x 56 cm) dimensions, including handles and wheels.
• The maximum dimension for a personal item is 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm), and it must fit under your seat.
• Those traveling via United Express can get their large carry-on baggage checked at the gate.
• You can carry jackets, umbrellas, mobility devices, books, a small camera, and a diaper bag for free, apart from your carry-on luggage and personal items.

United Airlines Checked Baggage Rules

Passengers traveling with United Airlines need to pay separately for the United Airlines Checked baggage. However, the exact fee will depend on the fare type. Ensure to carry the bag within the specific size and weight limit for your convenience. Read the pointers below for a better understanding.

• The checked baggage should not exceed 62 inches in size and dimensions, including hands and wheels.
• Each passenger must pay checked baggage fees depending on their fare type, destination airport, and status.
• Your checked baggage should not weigh more than 70 pounds if you're traveling via United Business, United First or United Polaris Business Class.
• Passengers with Silver, Gold, Platinum, or 1K Mileage Plus status can carry two checked baggage, each weighing 70 pounds.
• Star Alliance Gold members can check bags with up to 50 Lbs in Basic Economy and 70 Lbs in Business class flights.

How Much Will United Charge for its Baggage?

United Airlines has specific charges when it comes to flying with carry-on or checked baggage. As a passenger, it's quite important to have a note about the prices so that you don't end up paying more.

Carry-On Charges

Checked Baggage Fees

Domestic Flights

International Flights

• For flights to and from Europe, Africa, South America, and Asia, Economy Class passengers can check their first bag for free, but the second bag costs 100 and additional bags are 200. Business Class travelers enjoy two free checked bags, while First Class passengers can travel with three bags free.
• For flights to and from Canada, the Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico, Economy Class passengers are charged 30 (first bag), 40 (second bag), and $150 for each additional bag.

Always ensure to check the United Airlines baggage fees to avoid any last-minute surprises.

What are United Airlines Excess Baggage Rules and Fees?

Passengers are allowed to fly with overweight, oversized, or excessive baggage on United Airlines. However, you must pay certain charges to fly with this luggage. For every excessive baggage, United will charge you $150. This fee will depend on the fare type and route of your flight. Thus, it's best if you use a baggage calculator and get to know about the exact charges before you fly. Read below to know the exact charges for excessive, overweight, or oversized baggage.

Overweight Baggage

Oversized Baggage

If the dimensions of your checked bag falls between 63-115 linear inches, you will be asked to pay $200 to United Airlines. Apart from this, if it exceeds more than 160-292 cm then your luggage won't be considered as checked luggage.

How To Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees On United Airlines?

You can save yourself from paying extra fees for your overweight baggage in several ways. To learn how to avoid such charges, go through the information mentioned below.

• The foremost thing to do is stay updated with the United Airlines Baggage Policy. Navigate to the official website (united.com) or call the customer service representative for the exact baggage details.
• Pack your luggage within the airline's given weight and size limit. For the safer side, only pack the necessary items.
• Always weigh your luggage once you are finished packing. This will surely save you from paying extra at the airport.
• You can also purchase an upgrade, where you will get the opportunity to carry extra luggage for free.
• You can also purchase additional luggage allowance beforehand at a cheaper price. This way, you can save extra charges and check-in time at the airport.

Conclusion

United Airlines baggage policy offers a straightforward guideline for carry-on and checked baggage. You are allowed one personal item and one carry-on bag for free, with size and weight restrictions. For checked bags, fees vary based on the route and fare class, with allowances for up to two bags on most tickets. Additional baggage can be purchased, and oversized or overweight items incur extra fees. Hence, travelers need to review the policy before flying to avoid unexpected charges. Contact the airline if you have more concerns regarding baggage and other United Airlines services.