Navigating airline baggage rules can be a major travel headache. United Airlines’ baggage policy, with its various fees and exceptions, is no different.
Knowing the rules before you pack can save you from unexpected charges and stress at the airport.
United Baggage Policy Summary
Here is a quick overview of United’s standard baggage allowances and fees for domestic flights. Remember that fees can vary based on your destination, elite status, and whether you pay in advance.
| Baggage Type | Allowance & Size Limits | Standard Weight Limit (Economy) | Standard Fees (Domestic, Pre-paid Online) |
| Personal Item | 1 item (9 x 10 x 17 in) | Must fit under the seat | Free |
| Carry-On Bag | 1 bag (9 x 14 x 22 in) | Must fit in the overhead bin | Free (except Basic Economy on some routes) |
| 1st Checked Bag | Max 62 linear inches (L+W+H) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $35 |
| 2nd Checked Bag | Max 62 linear inches (L+W+H) | 50 lbs (23 kg) | $45 |
| Overweight Bag | 51-70 lbs (24-32 kg) | N/A | +$100 to +$200 per bag |
| Oversize Bag | 63-115 linear inches | N/A | +$200 per bag |
Note: Paying for bags at the airport costs $5 more per bag. International fees and premium cabin allowances differ. Always use United’s baggage calculator for the most accurate information for your specific flight.
United Carry-On and Personal Item Rules
United allows most travelers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board for free.
- Personal Item: This should be a small item like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack that fits under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions are 9 x 10 x 17 inches.
- Carry-On Bag: This larger bag, such as a roller suitcase, must fit in the overhead bin and not exceed 9 x 14 x 22 inches, including wheels and handles.
The Basic Economy Exception
If you’re flying on a Basic Economy ticket on most domestic routes, you are only allowed to bring one personal item. You cannot bring a full-size carry-on bag.
If you arrive at the gate with a carry-on, you will be charged the standard checked bag fee plus a $25 gate handling fee.
Restriction
This restriction does not apply to Basic Economy tickets for trans-Atlantic, trans-Pacific, and South American flights, or for MileagePlus Premier members, Star Alliance Gold members, and eligible United credit cardholders.
United Checked Baggage Policy and Fees
Checked baggage fees on United depend on your destination, fare class, and whether you have elite status or a qualifying credit card.
Domestic and Short-Haul International Flights
For flights within the U.S., as well as to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, expect to pay for checked bags in Economy.
- First Checked Bag: $35 if you prepay online, or $40 at the airport.
- Second Checked Bag: $45 if you prepay online, or $50 at the airport.
Long-Haul International Flights
On many long-haul international flights, such as to Europe, Asia, or South America, Economy passengers typically receive at least one free checked bag.
A second checked bag usually costs around $100. Basic Economy fares on these routes often have a fee for the first bag (around $75-$80).
Overweight and Oversize Baggage Fees
United’s fees for bags that exceed standard limits can be steep. These fees are charged in addition to any standard checked bag fees.
- Overweight Bags: A bag weighing 51-70 lbs will incur a fee of $100-$200. Bags between 71-100 lbs cost $200 or more. United will not accept bags over 100 lbs.
- Oversize Bags: Bags larger than 62 linear inches will be charged a $200 fee.
Be aware that a bag that is both overweight and oversize will be charged both fees, which can add up quickly.
How to Avoid United Baggage Fees
With a little planning, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate United’s baggage fees.
Get a United Co-Branded Credit Card
Several United credit cards offer free checked bags for the primary cardholder and a companion traveling on the same reservation.
- Unitedâ„ Explorer Card & Unitedâ„ Business Card: First checked bag is free.
- United Questâ„ Card & United Clubâ„ Infinite Card: First and second checked bags are free.
To receive this benefit, you must purchase the ticket with your eligible United card.
Earn MileagePlus Premier Status
Frequent flyers with United’s MileagePlus Premier status receive a generous baggage allowance.
- Premier Silver: One free checked bag (up to 70 lbs).
- Premier Gold: Two free checked bags (up to 70 lbs each).
- Premier Platinum & 1K: Three free checked bags (up to 70 lbs each).
Star Alliance Gold members also receive at least one free checked bag on United flights.
Fly in a Premium Cabin
Passengers flying in United First, United Business, or Polaris business class receive two free checked bags with a higher weight limit of 70 lbs each.
Prepay for Your Bags Online
If you know you need to check a bag and don’t have a way to get it for free, always prepay online at least 24 hours before your flight.
You’ll save $5 per bag each way compared to paying at the airport.
Pack Strategically
The simplest way to avoid fees is to travel light. If you can fit everything into a personal item and a carry-on, you won’t have to worry about checked bag charges.
For families or groups, consolidate items into fewer suitcases to avoid paying for extra bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a personal item on United?
A personal item can be a purse, backpack, or laptop bag that is no larger than 9 x 10 x 17 inches and fits under the seat in front of you.
Are strollers and car seats free to check?
Yes, United allows you to check one stroller and one car seat per child for free, in addition to your standard baggage allowance.
How much does a third checked bag cost on United?
Fees for a third checked bag (or more) on a domestic flight start at $150. These bags are only accepted if space is available.
What is the “bag drop shortcut” at the airport?
If you’ve already paid for your bags online and have your boarding pass, you can use United’s “bag drop shortcut.”
This dedicated lane at the check-in area allows you to simply drop your bag and go, saving you from waiting in the full-service line.
Does United have a baggage subscription service?
Yes, United offers an annual baggage subscription starting at $349. It allows the subscriber and up to eight companions on the same reservation to check bags for free.
This can be a cost-effective option for frequent travelers who don’t have elite status or a United credit card.
Plan Ahead for a Smoother Trip
Before you fly, always double-check the latest rules and use our free baggage calculator to get a personalized estimate for your trip.
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
