United Airlines Baggage Policy (2026)

Last updated: April 2026 · Source: United Airlines official website

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Quick Answer

United Airlines allows 1 carry-on and 1 personal item for free on most flights, except Basic Economy which only allows a personal item. Checked bags start at $45 prepaid for the first bag in domestic economy.

Carry-On Baggage

Carry-On Size	22x14x9 inches (56x35x23 cm) including handles and wheels
Personal Item	1 personal item: 17x10x9 inches (43x25x22 cm). Must fit under the seat.

Checked Baggage Fees

Item	Fee / Details
Included Bags	Basic Economy: 0 bags (unless trans-Pacific/Atlantic). Economy: 0 bags (domestic). Premium Economy: 2 bags (23 kg). Business/First: 2 bags (32 kg).
1st Checked Bag	$45 prepaid, $50 at check-in for domestic economy
2nd Checked Bag	$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 per bag
Max Dimensions	158 cm linear (L+W+H) / 62 inches

International Baggage 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.

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.

Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees

1Get a United MileagePlus credit card for a free first checked bag.
2Prepay for bags at least 24 hours before departure to save $
3Achieve Premier Elite status for free checked bags up to 70 lbs.
4Pack only a personal item if flying Basic Economy.

Did You Know?

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.