United Airlines Baggage Policy (2026)
United Airlines baggage fees start at $45 prepaid ($50 at check-in) for the first checked bag in domestic economy. On most flights you can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item free. Basic Economy includes a free carry-on only on flights to South America, across the Atlantic and to international destinations across the Pacific, or for MileagePlus Premier members and eligible primary United credit cardmembers who meet the conditions; every fare includes one personal item that fits under the seat.
Have a question about United Airlines baggage policy?
Talk to an ExpertBaggage Allowance Summary
| Airline | United Airlines (UA) |
|---|---|
| Carry-On | 22x14x9 inches (56x35x23 cm) including handles and wheels |
| Personal Item | 1 personal item: 17x10x9 inches (43x25x22 cm). Must fit under the seat. |
| Checked Bag Allowance | Basic Economy: 0 bags (unless trans-Pacific/Atlantic). Economy: 0 bags (domestic). Premium Economy: 2 bags (23 kg). Business/First: 2 bags (32 kg). |
| First Bag Fee | $45 prepaid, $50 at check-in for domestic economy |
| Second Bag Fee | $55 prepaid, $60 at check-in for domestic economy |
| Overweight Fee | $100 for bags 51-70 lbs (23-32 kg), $200 for bags 71-100 lbs (32-45 kg) |
| Oversized Fee | $200 for bags 63-115 linear inches |
| Max Weight | 23 kg |
| Max Dimensions | 158 cm linear (L+W+H) / 62 inches |
| Free Bag in Economy | No |
Special Items
Sports Equipment
Most sports equipment counts toward checked bag allowance. Golf clubs allowed in hard case. Scuba tanks allowed as checked bag. Oversized/overweight fees may apply.
Musical Instruments
Small instruments allowed as carry-on in hard case. Large instruments require purchased seat. Checked instruments subject to standard fees.
International Rules
Economy passengers can check 1 bag for free on most international routes. Basic Economy pays $75 for the first bag. Premium Economy gets 2 free bags.
Tips to Avoid Fees
1. Get a United MileagePlus credit card for a free first checked bag. 2. Prepay for bags at least 24 hours before departure to save $5. 3. Achieve Premier Elite status for free checked bags up to 70 lbs. 4. Pack only a personal item if flying Basic Economy.
Unique Nuances
Basic Economy passengers are charged a $25 gate handling fee plus the $50 checked bag fee if they bring a full-sized carry-on to the gate. Marriott Titanium Elite members get automatic United Silver status, allowing a free 70 lb checked bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does United Airlines charge for checked bags?
- United Airlines charges $45 prepaid, $50 at check-in for domestic economy for the first checked bag and $55 prepaid, $60 at check-in for domestic economy for the second bag.
- What is United Airlines's carry-on bag size limit?
- United Airlines carry-on allowance: 22x14x9 inches (56x35x23 cm) including handles and wheels. 1 personal item: 17x10x9 inches (43x25x22 cm). Must fit under the seat.
- Does United Airlines include free checked bags in economy?
- No, United Airlines does not include free checked bags in basic economy. Basic Economy: 0 bags (unless trans-Pacific/Atlantic). Economy: 0 bags (domestic). Premium Economy: 2 bags (23 kg). Business/First: 2 bags (32 kg).
- What is United Airlines's overweight baggage fee?
- $100 for bags 51-70 lbs (23-32 kg), $200 for bags 71-100 lbs (32-45 kg)
- Can I bring sports equipment on United Airlines?
- Most sports equipment counts toward checked bag allowance. Golf clubs allowed in hard case. Scuba tanks allowed as checked bag. Oversized/overweight fees may apply.
- What are United Airlines baggage fees?
- United Airlines baggage fees are $45 prepaid, $50 at check-in for domestic economy for the first checked bag and $55 prepaid, $60 at check-in for domestic economy for the second. Overweight bags incur an additional fee of $100 for bags 51-70 lbs (23-32 kg), $200 for bags 71-100 lbs (32-45 kg). Economy passengers can check 1 bag for free on most international routes. Basic Economy pays $75 for the first bag. Premium Economy gets 2 free bags.