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United Airlines Baggage Policy (2026)

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

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 Size22x14x9 inches (56x35x23 cm) including handles and wheels
Personal Item1 personal item: 17x10x9 inches (43x25x22 cm). Must fit under the seat.

Checked Baggage Fees

ItemFee / Details
Included BagsBasic 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 Weight23 kg per bag
Max Dimensions158 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

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

More United Airlines Information

Traveler Ratings — United Airlines Baggage Policy

Based on 92 verified traveler reviews

4.0
92 ratings
5
27
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50
3
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4.0
Carry-On Policy
3.6
Checked Bag Fees
3.3
Weight Limits
3.7
Customer Service

Recent Reviews

Test UserMay 14, 2026

Good baggage policy overall

Test UserMay 14, 2026

Good baggage policy overall

Test UserMay 14, 2026

Good baggage policy overall

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