United Airlines Baggage Policy: San Francisco to London
United Airlines baggage fees start at $45 prepaid ($50 at check-in) for the first checked bag in domestic economy. All passengers except Basic Economy get 1 free carry-on and 1 personal item. Basic Economy only allows a personal item.
Baggage Allowance Summary
| Airline | United Airlines (UA) |
|---|---|
| Route | San Francisco (SFO) to London (LON) |
| Nonstop | Yes |
| 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 |
Route-Specific Tips: San Francisco to London
- United includes 1 free checked bag (23kg) on SFO-LHR, even in Basic Economy (international exception).
- SFO is United's Pacific hub — many connections available for onward travel.
- United Polaris lounge at SFO is available for Business Class passengers before the 10.5-hour flight.
- This is a popular tech corridor route — overhead bins fill fast, so board early.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does United include free checked bags San Francisco to London?
- Yes. All fare types on United's SFO-LHR route include 1 free checked bag (23kg). Polaris Business includes 2 bags (32kg each).
- What is United's carry-on policy for SFO to Heathrow?
- United allows 1 carry-on (56x35x22cm) plus 1 personal item (43x25x22cm). No weight limit on carry-on.
- Do United MileagePlus members get extra bags on SFO-London?
- Yes. Premier Silver: 1 extra bag. Premier Gold/Platinum/1K: 2 extra bags. Global Services: 3 extra bags.
- How early should I arrive at SFO for a United London flight?
- United recommends 3 hours before departure for international flights. Bag drop closes 60 minutes before departure.