United Airlines Baggage Fees & Tips To Cover The Expenses
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United has a pretty basic baggage policy all around so you won’t find many surprises here. Overweight/oversized fees are a bit on the higher side but that being said, they’re consistent with most other major U.S. carriers.
Something to note: Economy fares are split into Basic or Full Economy, which is of importance when you consider the carry-on allowance. Otherwise, in terms of baggage, fees are pretty much the same across the two.
Table of contents
Table of Contents
United Airlines Carry-On Allowance
1 personal item: FREE
1 standard carry-on bag:
- Standard Economy: FREE
- Basic Economy: No bag included (excluding transatlantic flights where a standard carry-on is included*)
*Any Basic Economy Fare passenger that brings a full-sized carry-on bag to the gate will be required to check their bag and pay the applicable checked bag fee plus a $25 gate handling charge; unless said passenger is a Premier® member or a qualifying MileagePlus credit card primary card member.
Size Restrictions
- Personal: 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 22 cm)
- Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm)
Lap Infant Carry-On Policy
- Customers may carry the following infant and child articles on board, in addition to the maximum carry-on baggage allowance: 1 diaper bag, breast pump, government-approved child seat (infant carrying seat or car seat).
Stroller Check Policy
- United allows passengers to check a stroller either at the ticket counter or at the gate (gate checked strollers cannot exceed 20 pounds / 9 kg). Passengers with a stroller and a car seat may only check 1 item at the gate.
United Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance
All checked bags must adhere to a max weight of 50 pound (23 kg) for all Economy and Premium Plus fares and 70 pound (32 kg) for Business and First Class fares; must adhere to max linear dimensions of 62 inches/158 cm.
Instead of providing a hard and fast table to assess your baggage fees at a glance, United is now recommending all passengers use their official baggage fee calculator tool here.
However, after doing some basic route searches, we found consistent fees as detailed in the table below (however, you should use the baggage calculator to check your specific route).
For routes that charge $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second, United now charges $5 more when purchased at the airport ($35 or $45 per bag). This applies to passengers that purchased a flight after 21 February 2020.
| Route | Economy (Basic, Plus & Full) | Premium Plus | Business | First |
| Domestic U.S. & Canada/Central America*/Caribbean (excluding Cuba) | 1st Bag: $30 2nd Bag: $40 3rd+ Bag: $150 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $150 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $150 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $150 |
| U.S. to/from Cuba | 1st Bag: $30 2nd Bag: $100 3rd+ Bag: $500 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $500 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $500 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $500 |
| U.S. to/from Mexico | 1st Bag: $30 2nd Bag: $55 3rd+ Bag: $180 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $180 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $180 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $180 |
| U.S. to/from Europe/India/Middle East | 1st Bag: FREE ($60 Basic Economy) 2nd Bag: $100 3rd+ Bag: $200 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $200 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $200 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bags: $200 |
| U.S. to/from South America | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE ($100 for Colombia, $40 for Ecuador) 3rd+ Bag: $150 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bag: $150 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bag: $150 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bag: $150 |
| U.S. to/from East Asia, Australia & New Zealand | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE ($100 for New Zealand) 3rd+ Bag: $200 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bag: $200 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bag: $200 | 1st Bag: FREE 2nd Bag: FREE 3rd+ Bag: $200 |
* Exclusions for Central America:
- 2nd bag : $100 for Guatemala & El Salvador
- 3rd+bags: $300 for Guatemala/$500 for El Salvador
Additional / Excess Baggage Fees:
As with checked luggage fees, United recommends all passengers use their official baggage fee calculator tool for excess baggage fees.
We ran some searches and found consistent fees for the destinations below, but we advise you check the baggage calculator for your specific route as this could vary based on your departure airport.
| Route | Oversized bags 63 to 115 linear inches | Overweight bags 51 to 70 lbs | Overweight bags 71 to 100 lbs |
| Domestic U.S. & Canada | $200 | $100 | $200 |
| U.S. to/from Mexico (excluding Cancun/Cozumel/Merida) | $200-£400 (depending on departure airport) | $100 | $200 |
| U.S. to/from Cancun/Cozumel/Merida | $200-$400 (depending on departure airport) | $100 | $200 |
| U.S. to/from the Caribbean (excluding Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands/Cuba) | $200-$400 (depending on departure airport) | $200 | $400 |
| U.S. to/from Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands | $200 | $100 | $200 |
| U.S. to/from Cuba | $400 | $400 | $600 |
| U.S. to/from Central America (excluding Panama/Guatemala/El Salvador) | $200 – $300 (depending on departure airport) | $200 | $400 |
| U.S. to/from Panama | $200-$300 (depending on departure airport) | $100 ($200 departing from Washington, DC) | $200 ($400 departing from Washington, DC) |
| U.S. to/from Guatemala | $250 | $250 | $450 |
| U.S. to/from El Salvador | $300 | $300 | $500 |
| U.S. to/from South America (excluding Brazil) | $200-$400 (depending on departure airport) | $200 | $400 |
| U.S. to/from Brazil | $200 | $100 ($200 departing from Washington, DC) | $200 ($400 departing from Washington, DC) |
| U.S. to/from Europe/India/Middle East/Africa | $200 | $200 | $400 |
| U.S. to/from East Asia, Australia & New Zealand | $200 | $200 | $400 |
For baggage fees related to special luggage (sporting equipment, musical instruments, etc.) please refer to United’s policy here.
Can I Pre-pay for Baggage?
United Airlines does allow passengers the ability to pre-pay for luggage online or via the mobile app when you check-in from 24 hours before the flight departure.
Here are the ways you can pre-pay:
- Log in to your booking from the ‘Check-in’ tab on the United Airlines website
- Download and check-in via the United Airlines app
Credit Cards That Give You A Free Checked Bag With United Airlines
You have four credit card options if you would like to have checked baggage fees waived on United flights. Two cards will even waive the fee for two checked bags.
Check out the details below:
| Credit Card | Checked Bag Benefit Details |
| United Explorer℠ Card | One free checked bag for you and one companion on your itinerary. |
| Chase United MileagePlus® Club Card | Your first and second checked bags are free. This benefit extends to one companion traveling on your itinerary. |
| United Explorer℠ Business Card | One free checked bag for you and one companion on your itinerary. |
| Chase United MileagePlus® Club Business Card | Your first and second checked bags are free. This benefit extends to one companion traveling on your itinerary. |
Exclusions & Waivers
Use the United Airlines baggage calculator to check any exclusions and waivers for your route.
Mileage Plus Status free weight allowance:
All Premier members are permitted the same weight allowance for their free baggage (70 pounds/32 kg per bag).
| Cabin and route | Premier Silver | Premier Gold | Premier Platinum | Premier 1k |
| Economy travel between the U.S and: Continental U.S Alaska Hawaii Canada Mexico Caribbean Central America | 1 bag x 70 lb | 2 bags x 70lb | 3 bags x 70lb | 3 bags x 70lb |
| Economy travel between the U.S and: South America Asia Australia New Zealand Europe Middle East Africa | 2 bags x 70lb | 3 bags x 70lb | ||
| All other Economy travel including Intra-Asia and Micronesia: | 1 bag x 70lb (in addition to standard allowance) | |||
| United Business, United First, and United Polaris | 3 bags x 70lb | |||
Free baggage exceptions apply to the following flights, regardless of Premier status:
- To/from San Salvador: 2 bags x 50lbs
- To/from Santo Domingo, Managua, San Pedro Sula, and Tegucigalpa: 2 bags x 70lbs (for travel December 1-January 15)
- To/from Guatemala City: 2 bags x 70lbs (for travel December 1-January 15 and June 1-August 31)
- To/from Havana: 2 bags x 70 lbs
Travel companions of MileagePlus Premier members will have the same exemptions as the Premier member whose status provides the benefit, as long as they are traveling on the same reservation.
Star Alliance Gold members:
- Domestic flights: 1st checked bag free (50lb)
- International flights: 2-3 free checked bags (50lb)
Active U.S. Military Personnel
- Personal Travel: 3 checked bags FREE (70lb, 62 linear inches)
- Official Business: 5 checked bags FREE (70lb, 100 linear inches)
Dependents of active U.S. military personnel will have the same exemptions as the military service member whose status provides the benefit, as long as they are traveling on the same reservation. If the dependent’s travel is due to official orders, the exemption applies. If dependents are traveling on their own for personal reasons, they’re subject to the normal baggage allowance & fees based on the purchased ticket type.
How much does it cost to check in a bag? Does it cost anything for a carry-on bag?
Hey Christine,
It depends on what fare you paid for. Basic economy doesn’t get a checked bag or carry-on bag. You get a personal item which can be a small backpack or a purse.
Regular economy gets a carry-on bag.
It also depends on your flight route and destination because different itineraries are charged different amounts of money, as we stated in this guide.
Please read through this guide in more detail and you’ll probably have all your questions answered. Thanks!
Can a bag be too light to be checked in? Like I have a bag packed for a 5 days trip but I’m a small person so my clothes are folded Small and my shoes are small.
Hi Mia! It’s always great to pack light and it sounds like you have mastered the art. You will have no problem checking a small, light, bag. As long as an item is large enough to have a bag tag attached, it is able to be checked. Thanks for the question.
What about economy plus? Confused
Hi Viviana,
Economy Plus passengers are entitled to the same baggage allowance as a standard Economy passenger. The benefits are in the cabin with additional leg room.
Hi,
We are flying through United to India via NJ, USA this December, economy class. We have an infant (9 month currently) traveling with us and as per United policy we have been charged 10% of the fare. I wanted to know if we can check in one 50 lbs bag for my infant. Also can we check in both stroller and carseat or it’s either of the two?
Hi Roma,
United Airlines’ website states that a car seat will be accepted for free in addition to a stroller. An infant being charged 10% of the fare is also entitled to a 50 lb checked bag.
Can I have a carry on & a garmet bag??
Hi Bill – this depends on if you are also bringing a “personal item”. United’s policy allows for a carry-on bag as well as a personal item (usually a small backpack/weekender bag or purse). In many cases, an airlines will approve a garment bag in place of the personal item and sometimes, you can even ask the airline to hang your garment bag at the front if the cabin layout has a small closet just to the right of the entry/door.
If you have a carry-on, a personal item, AND a garment bag, airlines will consider that three items and many can get snippy. Unfortunately, in that case, we cannot say with 100% certainty that United would allow it.
We suggest calling United’s Customer Service line at 1-800-864-8331. Hope this helps!
I am booking a regular economy ticket to Puerto Rico and I am confused about how many bags I am allowed to check in for free?!
If I am allowed for one luggage for free how it will cost me to check in second one.
Hi Merna, in order to address your question we would need to know where you’re flying from? We would also need to know which fare type you purchased. If you’re flying from the U.S. t is unlikely you will be given any free bags since it’s not a transpacific or transatlantic flight.
It will very likely be $30 for your first bag and $40 for your second, each way, costing $140 total in fees. This is if you’re flying from U.S. to Puerto Rico with an Economy Fare.
United actually has a baggage calculator tool that you can use – click here to access. Hope this helps!
Hi
We are family of 4 persons with basic economy ticket from Kastrup Denmark – Brussels Belgium – and last destination is Dulles Washington International Airport.
So according to your website, one personal item and one carry bag totally 12kg per person is permitted.
But if I want a checked bag, how much is the cost and to whom I should pay the charges?
Thanks in advance,
Rahmatullah Serdar
Hi Rahmatullah,
The fee for the first checked bag would be $60 which can be paid online by logging in to your booking or at the airport.
Hi,
We are 2 persons flying from Copenhagen via Toronto to New York. Leaving CPH on the 8th April 2019, and leaving NYC on the 13th April 2019. We need to book 2 pcs baggage, but I’m confused on how to do this. Our flight nos are UA8375 + UA 8232 and UA 8233 + UA8524. Would you please be kind enough to give me a hint on how to book?
Kind regards, Lillian
Hi Lillian, as per our “Can I Pre-pay for Baggage?” section above, we state:
United Airlines does allow passengers the ability to pre-pay for luggage online or via the mobile app when you check-in from 24 hours before the flight departure.
Here are the ways you can pre-pay:
– Log in to your booking from the ‘Check-in’ tab on the United Airlines website
– Download and check-in via the United Airlines app
You can also pay for your luggage at the check-in counter when you get to the airport.
Hope this helps…
Hello,
Can you please specify the baggage allowance for basic economy class again? Those written above are not clear.
I will be traveling from India to San Francisco
Hi Ipsita,
For your route, Basic Economy would include a personal item and standard carry-on bag for the cabin and no checked luggage.
Hi Erin, thanks. I understand, that I can pay for the baggage only 24 hours before take-off?? Will there be a difference between pre-paid baggage and baggage paid at check-in?
Kind regards Lillian
Hi Lillian, per United’s Baggage FAQ page “When checking in at united.com, you can input your credit card information to cover your checked bag service charges. Your card will be charged immediately for the number of bags you designate at the time you check in online. If required, you may change the number of checked bags at the airport; however, bag charges paid online will not be refunded.”
This leads us to believe you can only pre-pay for your luggage from the time of check-in, which opens 24 hours prior to the flight. The price of your luggage should be the same whether you pre-pay or pay at the airport.
So, I have a voucher that I want to use. Am I able to book a round trip flight for me and a friend or is that not allowed?
Hi Keana, great question! You can use the voucher to cover your friend’s ticket too. It is not tied to purchasing a ticket under your name.
If you purchase your ticket with a separate credit card (capitol One Venture card), can you still use the perks of the United Airlines Credit cards to get you free checked bags? Or do you have to purchase your flight with the United partnered cards to get you that perk?
Hi Tyler! You don’t need to purchase the ticket with the United card. Your United credit card is tied to your MileagePlus account, and so basically any booking under your MileagePlus account will have the free booking, so long as the itinerary is eligible.
Hi Tyler! My apologies – I stand corrected. For United, you DO need to purchase the ticket with your United card, unlike AA where the card is tied to your profile. My apologies for the confusion!
I want to purchase an economy basic ticket from EWR to Brussels and I need to take two checked in bags for myself and my son. I have the Chase United MileagePlus® Club Card but my husband is the main account holder (I have a secondary card) – Can my son and I still benefit from the free checked bag benefit? (ONE OR TWO CHECKED BAGS EACH?)
Thanks for your clarification.
Hello Christelle and thanks for the question. According to the United MileagePlus Club Card terms and conditions, only the primary cardmember and one traveling companion on the same reservation are eligible to receive 2 free checked bags. Authorized users also must be on the same reservation as the primary cardholder to receive the free checked bag benefit. You can access additional information here: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/baggage/chasebag.html
Do you know how to get the free checked bags? Do they need to be purchased first and then are reimbursed or do they just waive it at the airport? We can’t seem to get a straight answer from United or Chase.
Hi Rose. You just need to make sure your United MileagePlus # is on your reservation. Your card should be synced to your account this makes you eligible for free checked bags on qualifying United flights. You do not have to pay for checked bags up front and get reimbursed.
Hi, I’m travelling from Jersey to Dallas with my 6 month old baby. We have 4 x 50 pound suitcases. Please how much do I pay and what are we entitled to check in? We’re flying economy.
Hi Karina,
For domestic flights, no checked luggage is included in the ticket fee and must be purchased separately. The first bag costs $30, the second $40, and any subsequent bags cost $150. So your total will be $370 for 4 bags. These can weigh up to 50lbs individually and must not exceed 62 linear inches.
I am active military and I have a bag that is 36x17x17. Am I going to be able to check that, or is it too big?
Hi David, this will depend on if you’re traveling for official business or personal reasons.
For official business, military personnel are allowed 5 bags free of charge, up to 100lbs & 115 linear inches. For personal travel, military personnel are allowed 3 bags free of charge, up to 70lbs & 62 linear inches.
You’ll definitely be able to check the bag as it’s under their max size limit of 115 linear inches, however, you’ll likely incur a fee if you’re traveling for personal reasons vs. on official business.
Unfortunately, we weren’t able to find anywhere on United’s website that states there is any discount on the “oversized bag” fee for military personnel. The standard fee for this is $200 per oversized piece.
I paid for online bag check-in, but what do I do with bags at airport? Usually you get a tag with numbers, etc.
Hi David and thanks for the question. When you arrive at the airport you will see the check in kiosks where you can print your boarding passes if you have not already done so. In the area next to the kiosks you’ll see the baggage drop off. Your bags will be appropriately tagged and you’ll be given your tracking receipt.
Traveling to Europe on United, Economy. Looks like I have one free checked bag. In addition to that one free checked bag, can I also bring a Carry On and Personal item without extra charges?
Hi Scott, yep – as mentioned above:
1 personal item: FREE1
Standard carry-on bag: FREE (including Basic Economy Transatlantic flights & excluding all other Basic Economy fares*)
🙂
Hi,
My wife and I are flying from Edinburgh to Cincinnati via Newark on 19th March on a Basic Economy ticket with one booked suitcase. We will be paying 60$ for one case. Will we have to pay another 30$ when we collect our case at Newark on route to Cincinnati?
We are not sure of the hand luggage we are allowed? Are we allowed one 22″x14″x9″ and a 17″x10″x9″ each being Basic Economy ticket holders?
Hi Richard,
For all ticketed fares, the baggage allowance applies to each person (i.e. per ticket).
For the basic economy fare, each ticket holder is allowed to carry on one personal item free of charge. This is usually a purse, briefcase, or small backpack; must adhere to measurements of 17″ x 10″ x 9″.
The trans-Atlantic basic economy fare includes one carry-on item per ticket holder. Per United’s website: “If you have purchased Basic Economy for a trans-Atlantic flight, you’ll still be allowed both carry-on items.” (meaning one personal item, plus one standard carry-on). This standard carry-on must adhere to 22″ x 14″ x 9″.
For checked bags with basic economy, United States: “For Basic Economy fares on trans-Atlantic flights, you’ll be required to pay for your first checked bag.” Which, according to their baggage calculator tool, should be a fee of $60. If the entire through trip from Edinburgh to Cincinnati was booked as one ticket with a simple stopover, you should not have to pay for your bags on the Neward-Cinci route as the allowance should apply per entire ticketed route, not per leg. (again, this is also confirmed by using united’s baggage calculator tool)
In fact, if you’re flying all the way through on United and you’re not staying overnight in Newark (i.e. you don’t need your bag), the gate agent at Edinburgh should check your bag all the way through to Cincinnati so you don’t have to collect it and re-check it at Newark. This is a big hassle and you wouldn’t want to deal with it if you don’t have to.
Hope this helps! 🙂
Hi Erin, I am traveling to New York on 18 March on a basic economy fare, from the UK. Could you please confirm if I can have a standard carry-on bag as well as a personal item. Also, can I pay the $60 for my case at check-in, and are all major credit cards accepted? Some of the information seems to vary.
Hi Bridie – first, let me say that we are not United Airlines so we can only advise you as far as the information from United’s website allows. We recommend you use United’s Baggage Calculator Tool for the most official word on your fees. (We can’t input the information in for you here as we don’t know which airport you’re flying from.)
That being said, with basic economy tickets, you get one personal item and one carry-on item. United’s website states: “If you have purchased Basic Economy for a trans-Atlantic flight, you’ll still be allowed both carry-on items.” (meaning one personal item, plus one standard carry-on).
The personal item and standard carry-on items must adhere to the dimensions listed above.
In terms of checked-bag fees, the general amount we’re seeing for transatlantic flights is $60 – yes, you can pay this fee at check-in and yes, all major credit cards are accepted (they no longer accept cash). You can see United’s approved forms of payment here.
I am flying on United airlines buddy passes from Frankfurt to Denver. I am not sure what fees apply for baggage with buddy passes.
Hi Amber,
Unfortunately we can’t find any official information as you need to login to United’s website to view the Buddy Pass terms of use, however, word on the web is that it’s 2 x 70 lb bags for the employee and 1 x 50 lb bag for a companion as a free allowance. We recommend you check the allowance with the employee you’re receiving the buddy pass from or call United’s call centre on 1-800-864-8331 to be sure.
Thanks
Catherine
My husband and I are going to Ecuador from Vancouver, BC, Canada in the Fall and would like some help how we could take 3 bags each.
What would we have to do, in order to not pay baggage fees at the maximum weight of 70Lbs each? It is our personal goods.
I thank you in advance for your advice.
Hi Charmaine, your even if you purchase a business class or first class ticket, the limit for free baggage allotment is 2 bags each with a max weight of 70lbs per bag so you would have to pay for two additional bags, each way at 150 CAD per bag (total 600CAD).
The only suggestion we have is to book your flight and/or pay for the bags with a credit card that will give you additional bags, or reimburse you for “travel expenses” of which, baggage fees are included in. You can find these cards in the section above: “Credit Cards That Give You A Free Checked Bag With United Airlines”
My husband is on basic economy…I see he can have a personal bag but no carry-on. He is changing airlines in Denver and needs to bring a carry on. What must we do?
Hi Karen,
You will need to purchase a checked bag to transport the carry-on. If you wait until the gate to do this then would be charged the checked bag fee plus a $25 handling fee.
Hi, flying basic economy class from US to China, how many baggages can be checked in for free? thank you,
Hi Jennifer, you should be allowed two checked bags free of charge but we suggest using United’s official baggage calculator tool to input your specific airports since you didn’t give us that information here… it’s always a good idea to double check.
I am traveling from POS, Trinidad and Tobago, to Newark, New Jersey, USA on economy(t) class. How much baggage am I allowed? Thank you. This is my first time traveling with your airline and I’m a little confused, especially with the carry on.
Hi Carol, first – please be advised we are NOT United Airlines. We are Upgraded Points, a website that publishes points and miles based articles as well as additional travel related posts like this baggage fee article. To check your baggage allotment officially with United, you can use their baggage calculator tool here: https://www.united.com/web/en-US/content/travel/baggage/checked-baggage.aspx If you’d like to inquire with United directly, we suggest you use the contact page on their website: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/contact.html.
That being said, if you are true “Economy” (not “basic economy”) you should be allowed one free personal item (usually a purse, briefcase or small backpack) as well as one free carry-on (must adhere to 22″ x 14″ x 9″ size or smaller). You will then have to pay if you would like to check any additional bags into the hold. According to United’s calculator, your first checked bag should cost $30 and if you’d like to check a second bag into the hold it should cost $40. These checked bags must adhere to max linear dimensions of 60″ and must weigh no more than 23kg or 50lbs.
If you have purchased a “basic economy” fare, you will not be allowed to bring a carry-on.
Hope this helps!
I bought a Basic Economy ticket from Michigan to Maui,HI. Is this flight considered a Trans-Atlantic flight, which means a personal item AND a carry-on bag allowed?
Hi Don,
Michigan to Maui is not a transatlantic flight so only a personal item would be included in your basic economy ticket.
If I booked a flight for 4 people from New York to San Francisco, one-way, how much will it be to take a 13 kg bag each?
Hi Steph, if you purchase economy class tickets, each ticketed passenger bringing a bag would be charged $30 per each first bag checked into the hold, up to 50lbs (23kg).
If you are asking about carry-on luggage, each ticketed passenger should be allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge for economy tickets. The carry-on must adhere to the 22″ x 14″ x 9″ measurements; United does not list a weight limit on their website for carry-on bags.
If you purchased any other fare class (basic economy, premium plus, biz, first) this may be different.
I am handicapped and using a walker to get to places. Will I be able to have my walker on the flight or have to check it in? Is there an extra charge?
Hi Maynard, it’s best practice to notify the airline if you are traveling with a disability as they will be able to better prepare and offer you the appropriate assistance. Since this is a question involving disability access/assistance (and we are not United Airlines so cannot comment with 100% confidence) we would suggest calling United’s 24-hour Accessibility Desk at 1-800-228-2744.
Hello, I have a quick question, as I am still a bit confused on the baggage policies. If I am traveling Phoenix to Guatemala City, do I get 1 free checked bag, a free carry on, as well as a personal item, or just the personal item and all else must be paid for?
Hi Mikayla,
This would depend on what fare type you book. If you book Basic Economy then the only free bag would be your personal item. You would need to pay to take a carry-on bag. If you have booked a standard Economy fare then the ticket should include a free piece of carry-on. For both fare types you would need to purchase checked luggage as this is not included. The first checked bag would cost $30 and a second bag would cost $40.
Hope this helps!
I’m flying basic economy from London to San Francisco. Am I allowed to carry both personal and carry on luggage for free?
Hi Zarah, as you can see in the “United Airlines Carry-On Allowance” section above, both a personal item and a carry-on item will be complimentary for Basic Economy passengers on transatlantic flights.
If I pay for checked bags using a credit card will I have to present this credit card when I drop off the baggage at the airport before my flight?
Strange question, I know. Anyone have an answer?
Hey Sandra,
Great question! In our experience, United will not ask you to present the card at check-in. Just make sure you pay for the ticket with your United Airlines credit card in order to take advantage of your free bags, priority boarding, and other credit card benefits.
Thanks!
Hey! At the airport the carry on and the big luggage is free, but what if I add another big luggage? (So, I will have 2 big pieces of luggage and one carry on) How much is the second big luggage?
Hi Alina, in order to answer that question we would need to know which fare type you purchased (Basic Economy, Economy, Business, First, etc) and what your route is. If you supply this information we can attempt to answer your question.
SO helpful- thanks!
Hi there! Thanks for the insightful information.
I am flying from New York to Chicago next month by United Airlines on ‘United Economy’. I just want to carry a ‘Personal Item’ and ‘Check-in’ one bag, because my bag size is slightly larger (5-6 inches) than the allowed ‘Carry-on’ size. I do not want any ‘Carry-on’ bag. I do not have any kind of ‘MileagePlus’ or ‘Premier’ membership. So will I be charged extra for the ‘Check-in’ bag or will it be checked in free as I do not have any ‘Carry-on’ bag?
Thank you for the help.
Hi Tina, unfortunately, United (and any other airline for that matter) won’t make a special case for the fact that you don’t have a carry-on bag… if your bag is larger than the allotted carry-on size you’ll have to check it and pay the associated checked bag fee. Again, this is regardless of if you bring a true carry-on or not.
I would like to take my guitar on a trip to Europe (normal sized, hardshell case): Can I take it to the gate and have it checked in prior boarding the plane?
Hi Wolfgang, this is what United has to say in their FAQ on gate-checking musical instruments:
“A larger musical instrument that does not fit in the overhead bin due to its size and is brought to the gate will be checked to your final destination and subject to the applicable checked baggage fees plus a $25 gate handling charge (payment by credit card only).”
I am flying from London Heathrow to Chicago O’Hare Airport. Can I pay for my checked bag at the airport using a debit card, and if so, does it include the return journey, or do I have to pay again? Does USA accept debit cards? Thank you.
Hi Christine,
You would be able to pay for your checked bag at the airport using a debit card and this is usually done individually for each one-way flight at the departure airport. United accepts these forms of payment, including Visa debit and Mastercard. You can also pay for your baggage online when you check-in for your flight (24 hours before departure.)
Hope this helps!
Booked a flight from Houston to Orlando for 8 people same reservation. I have the United Explorer card but used the Chase Sapphire by mistake. Would everyone on the reservation with me still get free carry on bag? My MileagePlus is linked with card. Thanks
Hi Melvin. Yes, each passenger will receive a free carry on bag and free personal item providing the tickets are not basic economy fare tickets. If the tickets are basic economy then each carry on bag will need to be checked at a charge of $25. To receive a free checked bag, you would have needed to use your United Chase Card to purchase the ticket. The free checked bag would have applied to the primary cardholder and one companion on the same reservation. Hope this information helps.
We (a family of 4) will fly from San Francisco to Frankfurt in Germany in June 2019. We all booked economy class tickets. I was a bit confused about how many carry-on packages we were able to bring for free of charge. Are we allowed to bring a total of four personal items, four carry-on bags, and four checked luggage at no charge?
Hi Trucmai! You should be correct here. If you purchased 4 standard economy fares for this transatlantic flight, you should each be allowed one personal item, one carry-on and one checked bag.
Where this may differ is if you purchased “basic economy” instead of standard economy. Regardless, your baggage allowance should be listed somewhere in your receipt for your purchase. Alternatively, you could always call United’s reservations line to confirm directly with them!
Hi,
my United flight from NY to Miami on Economy was arranged by Norwegian Cruise Line. Can I use my United Explorer club card to pay for the upgrade to premium economy to get free checked bags?
Thanks,
TTran
Hey TTran, unfortunately that is something that will not happen at all. Thanks for reading.
Hey TTran,
You must pay for the flight in its entirety with your United Explorer card to access free checked bags. Thanks for reading.
hi Stephen,
that is not true that I need to pay for the flight in its entirety with the explorer club card. if I book the flight with mile and pay tax (5 bucks) using the explorer club card, I DO GET 2 bags free
TTran,
Per the policies outlined in the cardmember agreement in the United Explorer card, you must purchase the ticket to receive the checked bags. If you pay for the taxes and fees and receive it, then good for you. Do not expect this to be honored at any point in time, as your free checked bags may be revoked if you violate the terms of the cardmember agreement.
In other words, you might be able to get away with it now, but you may be disappointed if this “bug” is fixed in the future.
Good afternoon. I would like to know how to find out about baggage allowed on flights from London to Ecuador. I plan to travel to Ecuador in August and I want to bring 4 checked bags and one hand bag. Could you inform me as to how many bags are included in the price and what the price is for extra luggage?
Thanks
Hi Santiago,
Providing the flight was booked on 1 combined ticket rather than separately (as a change would be required in the U.S.) then 1 piece of checked luggage (23 kg) would be included in the ticket. The fee to purchase a 2nd bag is $75 and the 3rd and 4th bags would cost $225 each.
If you purchase a standard Economy ticket (not Economy Basic) then you would be able to bring 1 piece of standard carry-on and 1 small personal item.
Stephen,
I’ll upgrade and let you know if I get free checked bags.
Hi,
I have a Casio keyboard CTK-573, 36″ ×15″. Am I allowed to carry on with the carry on luggage? Please advise. If check it in, how much does the fee cost? Traveling overseas tomorrow.
Thanks.
Hi there, you can find more information related to United Airlines Musical Instrument policy here: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/baggage/fragile.html#Musicalinstruments.
Please be advised we are not United Airlines, so we’d just be making our best, educated guess on this based on the information United provides on their website (the link we’ve included above). For the most accurate info, we suggest calling United’s customer service directly! (1-800-UNITED-1 from the U.S.)
Hello… just want to check if you have any idea how strict are they on the total linear dimensions?
I’m flying United Domestic 1st class and have 2 free checked up to 70lbs. However..my pieces of luggage are just ever so slightly over at 63” and 64.7”..will they be more relaxed on those extra couple of inches if the weight is kept to below 70lbs?
I have had no problems with any international airlines before even though they have the same 62” linear limits..though it’ll be my 1st time flying USA domestic so just wondering how stringent they are on this..any info or help will be greatly appreciated!
Hi Alvin! This is a really tricky question to answer. Really, it depends on how picky your ticketing agent is and sometimes how their day is going. Some agents are a bit more lenient while some can be super strict. We can’t say for sure one way or the other how this will go…
Maybe there are some other readers out there that have some experience with this on United?
I will travel with Basic Economy from Houston to Las Vegas tomorrow. Do I have a free carry-on? As said in 2019 United Airline baggage regulation below
“1 standard carry-on bag: FREE (including Basic Economy Transatlantic flights & excluding all other Basic Economy fares*)”
Please let me know ASAP. Thanks.
Hi Thuan, the only Basic Economy fares that are eligible for a free carry-on bag are Transatlantic flights (as mentioned in the regulation you cited in your comment). This means you will not be allowed a free carry-on for domestic flights with a Basic Economy ticket.
So how much is a carry on for a domestic basic economy flight?
Hi Samantha,
The charge for a carry on bag on a domestic flight should be $30.
Hello. I have searched in many places and cannot find the answer to my question. I am United Premier Silver so I am entitled to one free checked bag of 70 lb. I also used my United Explorer Card to book a domestic flight for myself, wife and 2 children. The Explorer Card entitles me to a free checked bag for myself and one companion. I don’t believe the benefits can be combined to get 3 free bags but I wonder about the weight limits. Can my free bag be 70 lb and my companions free bag be 50 lb? Or would the Explorer Card benefits of two free bags override the 70 lb benefit I get with being Silver. The United bag calculator is not clear. It seems to imply that everyone on the itinerary gets one free bag of 70 lb but it also says service charges will vary by traveler depending on status. Any thoughts? Thank you.
Hi Dale,
The United baggage policy states that “Travel companions of MileagePlus Premier members will have the same exemptions as the Premier member whose status provides the benefit, as long as they are traveling on the same reservation”. So the baggage calculator would be correct that all of your travel companions would be permitted 1 x 70lb bag.
Hope that helps!
What’s the latest I can check in my bag prior to the flight ?
Hi Agustin!
Per the United website, for most United and United Express operated flights within the U.S., travelers with checked baggage must check in at least 45 minutes before departure.
For most United and United Express operated international flights, travelers must check in at least 60 minutes before departure, regardless of whether or not they are checking baggage.
Is there a charge to carry on a backpack? I am trying to avoid a charge at all cost, so I decided to pack with just a backpack. My son and I are traveling from Fresno, Ca to Chicago through San Francisco. Please advise and thank you very much.
Hi Mark!
A backpack is considered a personal item with United Airlines, so you can bring it on the plane for no charge!
Seeking clarification. My mother-in-law will travel from LAX to San Pedro Sula, Honduras on a basic economy. Because of this, she is only entitled to 1 personal item for FREE, correct? What is the fee and weight limit for 2 checked bags?
Hi Violeta – you are correct. With the ‘basic economy’ fare, your mother should be allowed only one personal item (a purse, briefcase or small backpack) to carry onto the flight.
This basic economy fare does not afford any free checked bags. According to United Airlines’ baggage fee calculator tool (which you can find here), her first checked bag should cost $30 and a second should cost $40. All checked bags must adhere to 62 linear inches (157cm) and 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag.
Hope this helps!
Hi!
I have two questions
First, I have a connected flights from MO to VA, and from VA to Frankfurt, and finally from Frankfurt to Amman, Jordan. And I wanna check to bags, I know the first one is for free, but how much is the fee to check a second one.
My second question is, Can I take a Longboard with me as a person item instead of a backpack?
Thank you!
Hi Mahmoud, were these flights booked together or separately? Are they all on United? Which fare class (economy, business, first) did you purchase?
In terms of your longboard, this is what United states on their website:
“United accepts only non-powered roller skates, rollerblades and skateboards as checked baggage or carry-on baggage.
First or second checked bag service charges may apply. Skating equipment carried in addition to the baggage allowance will be assessed at the current excess baggage charge.
Skating equipment is subject to applicable overweight and oversize excess baggage charges.”
Hello, Erin!
The first flight, from KC to Washington Dulles, is United Airlines flight, and it’s separated from the two connected flights after.
The flight from Washington Dulles to Frankfurt is United Airlines, but the one from Frankfurt to Jordan is Lufthansa.
It’s economy class flights.
So how much is it to check in a second luggage from KC to Washington Dulles.
And then how much is it check in that same second luggage in the connected flight from Washington Dulles to Frankfurt then to Jordan.
(There is a three day gap between my first flight and the other two.)
Thank you so much!
Hi Mahmoud,
We still need a little more information to be able to help here. Did you purchase these 3 flights together on 1 ticket? And does the Lufthansa flight have a United Airlines number on your ticket?
As a United Silver Premier member, does my free baggage allowance apply if I fly Air Canada? Also, does it matter where I booked my ticket?
Hi Sam! As we’re not United, the best answer we can give is a researched guess, BUT, Air Canada has a baggage fee calculator tool that could help you out.
I’d go ahead and try to access this information for you but I don’t know which airports you’re flying from/to or your fare type, so I don’t have enough information to do so.
You can find their baggage calculator tool here: https://www.aircanada.com/us/en/aco/home/plan/baggage/checked.html
Since United MileagePlus Premier Silver is equivalent to Star Alliance Silver, be sure you select that from the dropdown on their platform.
Additionally, in reference to asking if it matters where you booked your ticket, Air Canada does state: “If your itinerary includes travel with one of our codeshare partners or with another airline, it’s important to know that the baggage policies of the other carrier may apply.”
I had booked a return home flight home to NZ through Air NZ and was booked on a United flight to LAX to meet up with Air NZ, worst airline i have ever had to deal with. First of was the issue with bag weight, we had book Premier seats which gave us extra weight, and United being a Star Alliance partner, we thought they would match Air NZ, no, they would not, instead for a bag weighing 54 pounds they wanted US $200, and they other bag at 52 pounds it cost US $165.00. Then a 3 hour delay while they found another plane as the one we were due to fly out in was grounded. Sorry but i don’t have anything good to say about United staff either, this is one airline i would not use again.
Hi Anthony, thanks for sharing this with us – sorry to hear about your experience with these airlines. Had you booked these 2 flights on a combined ticket, or separately?
Hi, how much does it cost to have an extra check in bag? We are going Asia, economy and we have 2 each checked bags free. How much it cost if I add another?
Hi Kristine,
Extra baggage depends on the route and United provides passengers with a baggage calculator to check fees. As I don’t know where you’re flying from I can’t comment on your specific route, but many long-haul flights charge $200 per extra bag. It’s best you use the calculator to check your specific route.
I want to know the baggage fees if I am flying from the US to Asia (India) considering the weight of my extra baggage is 70lbs (around 30KG).
Hi Anil, in order to answer your question, we’d need a bit more info like what fare type you purchased (economy, business, first) and which airports you’re flying out of/into.
I have reviewed the checked and carry on baggage restrictions and am uncertain as to whether my reservations are considered economy or basic economy. My confirmation information does not clearly show this. How can I determine this?
Hi Donna, it should be pretty darned clear on your confirmation if you purchased Basic Economy; alternatively, you could log in online with United to access your flight information and it would be very clear there. Additionally, if you’re still unsure, look for your ‘Fare Code’, basic Economy is the letter N. (The following are all standard economy codes: M, E, U, H, Q, V, W, S, T, L, K, G)
I am flying return Amsterdam-New York and I want to know if it is possible to add a piece of luggage for only one part of the flight (on the way back) or if I need to add the luggage for both.
Hi R, airlines general policies are that you pay for your baggage per flight. So yes, it should be entirely possible for you to only add an extra piece on one leg of your round-trip flight. 🙂
Hi, I have a bicycle box for a trip to europe. I know I pay a fee of $150 or so for oversized, but what is the weight limit on oversized baggage before paying extra? Mine will be almost 70 pounds
Hi Paul,
Luggage weighing 51 to 70 lbs would be charged $200 extra or $400 for luggage weighing 71 to 100 lbs. You would also have your oversized fee on top of this.
I am travelling from USA to Vienna. Is my baby (lap infant) allowed a checked bag for free and a carry-on item too just as I am? The class is not Basic Economy, it is United Economy (L)
Hi Kate,
United’s ts & c’s state “The standard checked baggage allowance applies to children with purchased tickets, including infants traveling internationally on 10 percent of an adult fare.” In addition to your standard carry-on allowance you can bring on board a diaper bag, breast pump and milk, government-approved child seat, and compact folding stroller.
Hello, am traveling from USA to Uganda, is it possible for me to carry a 24inch TV as my carry-on baggage such that it doesn’t break? I will be using United airlines and Brussels airlines.
Thanks
Hi Peter, we can’t comment on the policies of these airlines and advise you contact them directly to query this.
Hi, I am travelling from Minneapolis to India via Newark..My itinerary says 1 checked bag, 1 carry on bag and 1 personal item is free..I want to know if there are any weight restrictions on carry on bag and personal item or just the size that matters? My personal item which is a backpack and carry on bag both weighs 7 kgs or 8 kgs but they are under the size restrictions as mentioned. Will my personal item be charged?
Hi Symphony,
United does not disclose any weight restrictions for carry-on or personal items, so providing both items are within the size limit, then they would be fine to carry.
My sister bought a basic economy ticket recently from Arcata/Eureka airport to Las Vegas using her United Explorer Mileage Plus card. She checked 1 small suitcase and was also charged an additional $30 each way for that bag for a total of $60. Doesn’t seem right! Please respond. Thanks
Hi Delores,
Please be aware that we are not United Airlines – we are UpgradedPoints.com. You will need to contact United Airlines to contest this. You can point them in the direction of this page on the United website that states that the primary cardholder is entitled to the first bag free for United Explorer.
My wife and I am permanently moving from US to India. How many bags can I check in (for fees) per person? I have 25 bags that I need to carry. Please let me know at your earliest. How much will it cost me?
Hi Rabi,
United Airlines does not state a maximum limit for the number of bags excess bags you can book, but as the quantity is so high, we advise you contact their customer service department to confirm. If you were able to take 25 bags, then this would cost $4,700 (first bag free, 2nd bag $100, and any subsequent bags $200 each.)
Hi, I’m still a little confused. I am traveling from RDU to AMS in a family of 4. All of our tickets are standard economy. From my understanding, we are each allowed 1 personal + 1 carry-on item for free. We are planning on bringing 2 checked luggages. If 1 person brought a checked bag, and another person brought a checked bag, would that be free or would it be counted together for $100? Thanks in advance.
Hey Anh,
Checked bags are different from carry-on bags and personal items. Your first bag per person will be free, so you don’t need to pay for checked bags unless you’re booked in basic economy.
Hi there,
Do you know what’s the baggage policy for check-in baggage especially when someone is flying to India? As per the ticket when reserved during the last week of February 25th, 2019, the ticket states that 2 checked in baggage are complimentary.
Hi Sanjay,
Your ticket should state your correct luggage allowance, but the standard allowance to India would be 1 x 23 kg bag for Economy passengers (unless you’re a MileagePlus Premier member.) We recommend you give United a call to clarify.
As usual, the information didn’t explain much. How much is a suitcase and a carry on bag for basic economy? 50 bucks? 30 bucks? Also, do you pay at the airport? They said you can pay ahead on an app but most people over the age of 45 like me don’t know how to do apps or prefer paying a real person.
It says 30 dollars for 1st bag, 40 for 2nd. Is your suitcase “a bag?” And a carry-on a 2nd “bag”?
On a side note, it’s bad enough that airlines started taking away all your space and cram everyone in like sardines, you now aren’t even allowed to bring your luggage without paying a lot for it. I miss the old days of flying when it was actually pleasant and you didn’t have your knees in your chin and the person in front of you didn’t have their reclined seat in your face.
If you have purchased a Basic Economy ticket, then you are only permitted to bring 1 personal item that must not exceed 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (unless you are flying transatlantic, in which case a standard carry-on bag is also included in the ticket price).
You are able to purchase checked luggage with a Basic Economy ticket. If you are flying within the U.S. & Canada, Central America (excluding some destinations,) or the Caribbean, then the fee is $30 for the first piece of checked luggage, $40 for the 2nd piece, and $150 for any subsequent pieces.
You can purchase checked luggage by logging in to your booking online or at the airport when checking in.
Hope you have a pleasant flight
Hi! I have a question that I’ve been confused about. On the United app, it says my class of service is “United economy” is that the same thing as “basic economy”? Please specify, as well as carry on bag policy. Thank you
Hi Anna,
Economy is not the same as Basic Economy. Since you are in Economy you may bring 1 personal item, and 1 standard carry-on bag, free of charge.
Thanks for reading!
If I buy an economy ticket, can I bring my carry-on item only and not pay for a checked bag?
Hi Emilee!
Yes, that is perfectly fine. You are not required to bring a checked bag.
Thanks for reading!
I bought a car seat and I’m travelling without an infant, from Kwajalein Atoll to Majuro Marshall islands, how much does it cost? I have a carry-on luggage and one normal luggage and the car seat will be the extra. Can someone clarify, thanks.
Hi Milika,
A 2nd piece of checked luggage for that route would cost $40. This can measure up to 62.0 linear inches (157cm) L + W + H and weigh up to 50.0 lbs (23 kg).
I have a cardboard tube that’s 3″ diameter by 36″ long. Can I take it as a carry-on? My trip is from IAH to SLP.
Hi Ruben,
As we’re not United Airlines we can’t comment on whether this item will be accepted as carry-on. It does not comply with their carry-on size restrictions and therefore likely wouldn’t fit in one of their bag sizers. We recommend you contact United Airlines to query this.
Hi
I m flying BCN to San Francisco on a Lufthansa flight operated (leg Frankfurt SF) by United. The other legs are operated by Lufthansa, and Swiss. My carry on suitcase complies with measurements of all carriers except United (its 40 cm wide where it should be 35). However it does fit the required 114 linear measurement. Will that be OK? Thanks
Hi Ons,
As we’re not United Airlines we can’t confirm this for you; however, the airline does not state that max linear dimensions are permitted for carry-on luggage. Bag sizers are used at the airports, so if your luggage does not fit inside this then it is likely your carry-on will be refused.
I am flying to Newark from west palm, Florida. If I buy economy tickets and not basic economy, does united require me to check my bag? I want to just bring my carry on bag and personal item?
Hi Emilee,
You will not be required to check a bag for purchasing an economy ticket.
Thanks for reading!
Hi, I have a flight booked to go to Savannah Georgia in a couple of weeks from Newark. I was not planning on bringing any luggage, but plans have changed and I now will be checking a bag. How do I get back to my ticket information to pay for my luggage. thanks!
Hey Kathy, you can purchase baggage online at check-in or when you get to the airport. Thanks!
Hi, I have a basic economy flight booked on United to Fort Myers, FL for later this week. I have a United Explorer Mileage Plus card, and I used said card to book the ticket(s). I do understand the free first checked bag allowance extends to my spouse, when on the same reservation. I also see I can carry on a bag when purchasing a basic economy ticket, as a perk to having the Mileage Plus Explorer card. Since RSW is a relatively short flight for us, and my spouse and I would like to just carry on (1) bag each, does anyone know if the carry on privilege for a Basic economy tickets also extends to a travel companion on the same reservation?? Thanks much!
Hi Ross, yes, the free carry-on bag does extend to your spouse so long as you’re both on the same ticket and paid with your Explorer card. The same goes for priority boarding and free checked baggage. Hope this helps—thanks!
I am flying alone (disabled senior citizen, age 70) from New Orleans, La. to Hawaii on United Airlines, basic economy, in October, 2019. Can I put my purse in my backpack and it be counted as one carryon and how much to check an additional suitcase? Sorry but I am a little confused. Thank you.
Hi Kathleen,
If you’re on a basic economy ticket then you would only be permitted to carry 1 personal item that must not exceed 17″ x 10″ x 9″. So if your backpack adheres to this size, then you could put your purse inside your backpack. If you need an additional bag, the only option is to purchase a checked bag for $30, per way.
I have a CPAP machine in a carrying case. Should I put that in my checked luggage or can I carry it on as a personal item? I will also have a carry-on.
Hi Lynda,
If you will need your CPAP machine during the flight then you should bring it on with you in your carry-on. If not, then feel free to put it in your checked bag.
Thanks for reading!
Hi,
My daughter is traveling with your airline from Sweden to New York (via Brussels). She needs to check-in two bags. How can we pay for this in advance or be sure that she can bring her extra bag? She is staying in the US for more than a year.
BR Johanna
Hi Johanna,
Please be aware that we are not United Airlines, we are UpgradedPoints.com. However, I can offer some advice here that United allows passengers to add luggage during the online check-in process from 24 hours before the flight. To do this, log in to your booking from the ‘Check-in’ tab on the United Airlines website or via the United Airlines app.
Hi,
planning to fly Dublin to NY (short trip) on basic economy, a party of 3. Can we add one checked bag between the 3 people?
Thanks.
Hi TBC,
Yes, you can add just one checked bag to your itinerary if you would like.
Thanks for reading!
Hi there, very helpful information but i’m having trouble finding what the maximum number of excess bags allowed to check per ticket? My family and I are relocating to Copenhagen (DEN-CPH, three tickets, 2 adults, 1 3-year old) and have decided to simply bring all of our personal belongings and its cheaper to pay for excess bags than to ship boxes. But I can’t seem to find a total number of excess bags that’s allowed per ticket, it just says the cost would be $200 per bag for 3+. (note, scandanavian airlines who will actually be the one flying us there has a limit of 9 on their website and of course cheaper, but alas, we’ll be flying with miles so I imagine that puts us as United Economy. We will also make them all within the smallest dimensions and under 50 lbs each (because it seems that the excess bag + oversize would be essentially double the cost?). We have not booked our tickets, so i wonder if that number would come up once we can use the calculator for our actual reservation?
I also called United only to be told the wait time would be 30 minutes, then finally spoke to someone who was only domestic airline reservations and had no clue, and they put me in a longer queue to speak to someone in international reservations – very frustrating! Any thoughts? Thank you for the great help here!
Hi Katie,
Maybe you could try posting/direct message on their social media sites to get an answer on the max allowance for excess baggage? We don’t have any experience of checking 3+ bags with United so we can’t offer any advice here I’m afraid. Maybe one of our readers will be able to help out with an answer.
If I buy a basic economy ticket (allows no carry-on), can I later upgrade to economy (1 carry on permitted)? Or do I have to make the choice when I am purchasing the ticket?
If allowed to upgrade, what is the fee difference (basic economy vs economy) and would I be charged a change fee?
Hi Deb,
Passengers are not able to upgrade from a basic economy ticket, so you would need to be sure you do not require a carry-on before purchasing this. If you do, then you will be required to purchase a checked bag to transport your luggage.
I’m traveling from London to Canada on economy, how much do I pay for my check baggage?
Hi Linda,
Unless you’ve purchased an economy basic ticket, your first checked bag would be included in the price of the ticket. If you wanted to add a 2nd bag, the fee would be 100 CAD.
I usually fly every 6 months, from Germany to the US and back again, but this time will be my final trip to the US, not returning to Germany anymore, so I have a lot more luggage than usual since I am taking everything that I can back with me. You accumulate a lot of stuff in almost 4 years, I sold my furniture and most of my electronics, but still, so much I don’t want to leave behind. I will have approximately 10 pieces of luggage and also a pet cat as carryon with me on this flight. Will I have any issues when I check in with so much luggage? Is there a limit of how many pieces I can take with me?
Hi Erna,
I would suggest trying out United’s baggage fee calculator tool. Baggage fees and allowances vary based on class of service and United elite status. With this tool, you’ll be able to calculate your specific baggage fee.
You’ll probably end up with some hefty fees with that number of bags and, you run the risk that they won’t let you check them all. United’s policy states: “Please note that extra baggage is accepted only if space is available on the aircraft.”
You might want to consider the cost of shipping some of your items vs. paying to check them on the airplane.
Do you have any idea as to who would ship this from Germany to Kentucky?
Hi Erna,
Major shippers like UPS and FedEx will ship from Europe to the USA.
I just booked a ticket from Beijing to Washington DC. Can I buy extra baggage in advance? I want to get reimbursed against the receipt from my work. Thank you!
Hi Kung, yes – you can purchase baggage in advance with United! Please see the “Can I Pre-Pay for Baggage?” section above for more details on how to do so!
Thank you Erin, for your reply. I will fry on Oct 28 but I would like to buy more baggage now, is it possible? or have to buy when check-in (24 hours before departure)?
Hi Kung,
You can add more baggage by logging into your United account and managing your reservation.
Thanks for reading!
Hi, does United allow laptops in a personal item/back pack?
Hi Nhung,
Yes, you can carry on a laptop in your backpack.
If I purchased an economy fare between destination A and destination C, and there is a stopover at destination B, then I have to take 4 different planes (2 on the way and 2 in the way back).
My question is if I upgrade to first/business for segments A to B and then on the way back from B to A, do I get:
1. 1 more free checked bag for the whole/part of the trip? or do I pay the extra $100ish?
2. Do I get access to the United Club location at B after I arrive from A during onwards travel? Even though my B to C flight is Economy?
Hi Daring Dude,
If all of your flights are purchased together, i.e. they are on the same itinerary, then you will receive the extra luggage benefits for the entire trip.
As for lounge access, you likely will not be able to enter the United Club with a first/business class boarding pass.
Thanks for reading!
Is it possible to get a refund for a checked bag pre-flight? We don’t need to check a bag after all. This is for a United Basic Economy fare domestic. Thanks!
Hi Sam,
You should be able to get a refund for the bag pre-flight if you’re no longer planning to bring it. I would contact the United’s customer service team directly so they can assist you with this.
Thanks for reading!
Hi. My daughter has a Basic Economy ticket but is also a MileagePlus Member. Will she have to pay for her carry on? Thanks!
Hi Mari,
MileagePlus Premier members are permitted to bring a standard carry-on if traveling on a basic economy ticket. So if your daughter is premier status then she can.
Do active duty military get a free carry on bag with a basic economy ticket?
Hi Patty,
United Airlines’ policy states that active duty military receive free checked luggage only, there’s no mention of carry-on.
We fly domestic Birmingham to Kalispell and had 2 checked bags that weighted 58lbs and 60lbs ,and were charged 100.00 per bag plus 30.00 per bag for a total of 260.00 is this correct?
Hi Jim,
Yes that sounds right. According to United’s baggage policy, overweight bags are charged at $100 and then you would have had the actual cost of the checked piece at $30.
If I show up to the gate (Basic Economy) and my carry-on ends up being too large for under my feet, how much will they charge?
Just $25 fee? Or the $25 plus $30 check in fee?
Hi Aileen,
United would charge you both the $25 and the $30 baggage fee in this situation.
Hello, please I bought economy ticket from Abuja Nigeria to Houston. How much am I required to pay for my extra bag of 23kg or may be 32kg as the case may be? Is the price paid for online the same thing as the price at the counter in the airport? Please reply
Hi Princess,
An additional 50lb bag would cost $200. If this bag was overweight (51.0 to 70.0lbs) then you would be an additional $200 in excess fees.
Hello, my wife and I are flying on United to LAX from IAH using our miles. Do we have to pay baggage fees? We are also MileagePlus Explorer card holders. Thank you
Hi Michael,
Since you’re MileagePlus cardholders then you should not have to pay a checked baggage fee.
Thanks for reading!
My wife and I are flying from Chicago to Aruba in United Economy. Are we allowed a carry-on bag? Thank you!
Hi Ray, yes, you will be allowed a carry-on bag if flying standard economy. This is in addition to a personal bag like a small backpack, laptop bag, or purse.
However, you you will only be allowed a personal item if you’re flying United Basic Economy to Aruba. The only exception to this rule is if you’re flying transatlantic, have United Premier status, or hold a United Explorer or Club credit card. Make sure to check your ticket beforehand.
Thanks!
Hi everyone,
I am Star Alliance frequent flyer silver. I can take an additional bag if I fly eg Lufthansa if I pay for the 1st bag. 23kg. Can I do the same if I fly United from JFK to Chicago with basic economy ticket and pay 30$ for the 1st bag?
Hi Bo,
Unfortunately the first bag is free only for Star Alliance Gold. As Star Alliance Silver, the first bag would be $30 and a second bag, $40.
Hi, I am flying basic economy from the UK to San Francisco. I want to purchase one check in but what else can I carry onboard and what size would these be? Many thanks
Hi Charlotte,
A personal item and standard carry-on is included with basic economy transatlantic flights. The maximum dimensions of these pieces are:
Personal: 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 22 cm)
Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm)
II have a very light bag that measures 73”. How much will that cost?
Hi Craig,
If this is a domestic flight you should expect to pay $200 since the bag is oversized.
Thanks for reading!
Do you know if I could add a checked bag during online check-in for just one way of my return journey?
Thanks
Hi Carrie,
Yes, you should be able to do that. Here is some helpful info from the United website.
I would like to take my E-reader on my flight from New York to Tampa. Can I take it in my personal bag?
Hi Inna,
Yes, you should be able to bring your e-reader in your personal bag.
Wife and I are going to Thailand in April. I’ve just measured our carry-on bags. One barely makes it (might be a half-inch over, in fact), while the other, a 3-year-old Samsonite that we’ve used with Southwest, is a full inch too tall.
Before I buy a new bag, maybe better just to pay the charge?
Please spell it out for me: how much will that charge be (flying basic economy)? And where/how do I pay it?
Thanks much.
— Steve
Hi Steve,
You would be charged $200 for the checked piece plus a $25 handling fee if you wait until the gate to see if your bag is accepted.
What are the payment methods for checking a bag at the airport? Does it have to be a credit card? Could it be debit?
Hi Jason,
You can use either a credit card or debit card to pay for your bag at the airport.
Hi Erin,
We are flying to Tahiti next year. It goes from Houston to San Francisco to Tahiti. We have a MileagePlus Explorer card which I understand will let us take our two pieces each of luggage free of charge. Do I need to charge the airfare on the card to get this perk, or does just possessing the card work? I cannot find it anywhere. Thanks, Patti
Hi Patti,
You must pay for the airfare with your card in order to receive the baggage benefit.
Are there any restrictions on what may be in a checked bag? Is it ok to include liquids?
Hi Roy,
Yes, you can bring liquids in your checked bag. For a full list of what items you can and cannot bring, I recommend using the TSA website.
Hi there, what if we are bringing a wedding dress? Would there by a closet available to put it in for the flight?
Hi Fabio,
United should be fine with you bringing a wedding dress onboard, providing it does not exceed the maximum size restrictions for a carry-on item. Generally speaking, airlines do have closets available for hanging items but their availability may vary on different flights. It might be worth giving United a call but they will probably say that space is subject to availability on the day.
Congratulations!
Hi there, we’re a group of six flying from OSL-FRA-TPA. The return tickets are TPA-IAD-BRU-OSL.
The tickets are bought as a whole – on the tickets it’s only TPA-IAD that says Economy class, the rest of them says K class.
Since we’re travelling transatlantic, will we be allowed the standard carry-on-bag AND the personal item?
Best Regards, Bjorn
The tickets were bought together
Hi Bjorn,
As your flight involves a complex itinerary, we advise you contact United to confirm your baggage allowance. We wouldn’t know whether your flight involves any codeshare partners with individual baggage allowances.
I am flying from chicago to Paris in May but unfortunately did not use my mileage plus credit card as it had not yet arrived. However, the flight is linked to my mileage plus account. I believe since I did not use the credit cards to purchase the flight that I will need to pay $60 for the checked bag. My question is for a carry on. It’s my understanding that I won’t be able to even bring a carry on (it would have to be checked or if I bring to counter I would have to pay for it as a checked bag plus an added fee). Is there any way to have the carry on bag be a carry on bag and have it stay on the plane? I don’t want it being ruined, and let’s face it, luggage gets ruined when it’s checked.
Is there any way that I can bring on a carry on? Or am I forced to do a second checked bag (which is ridiculous as a small bag weighing 12lb is not the same as a checked bag of 60lb, but i don’t make the rules)!
Thanks in advance
Hi Connie,
I assume you’ve purchased a basic economy fare? With transatlantic flights, passengers are permitted 1 standard carry-on bag and 1 personal item, so you could take your carry-on onboard the aircraft.
If I have a mileage plus explorer credit card, what is the allowance for checked baggs for me and my family traveling with in the United States?
Hi Jan,
As long as you pay for the flight with your United Explorer card, you will receive your first checked bag free for the cardmember and 1 traveling companion.
Thanks for reading!
Hi, I’m flying to Telaviv with my wife, a 2 year old baby, and newborn on Economy Plus. Do I have allowance for 6 or 8 bags to check in, similarly is it 3 or 4 bags for carry on? Just wondering what is the max since we are moving and carrying lots of stuff even though I believe I won’t use the max but basically do they consider my newborn as 1 person since I paid for him to be on the flight, albeit not a full ticket.
Thank you
Hi Badawi,
For carry-on allowance you would be able to bring the following items for your lap infant:
– Diaper bag
– Breast pump and milk
– Government-approved car seat
– Compact folding stroller
For yourselves and your 2 year old, you would be permitted the standard allowance of 1 x carry-on and 1 x personal item each.
For checked luggage, United states:
“Our checked bag policy and allowance applies to children with purchased tickets, including infants traveling internationally on 10 percent of an adult fare.”
So you would all be eligible for checked luggage, including your lap infant.
Hello,
I will soon fly from Mexico to Houston and then Houston Columbus with United. It is a economy flight and I am Star Alliance Gold member. I would like to carry a box with a KitchenAid in the cabin. The box is 40x40x55cm and weighs 11kg.
Any thoughts or experience how that goes?
Hi Juan,
United wouldn’t permit you to take an item of that size into the cabin as the maximum carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm). So you would need to check the item.
My husband and I are traveling for the weekend and just use carry on bags. I am also a new mother, will I be able to take my cooler with my breast pump on the plane?
Hi Alisha,
Yes, you should be able to bring these items onto the plane with you. Thanks for reading!
We heard that United is planning to operated limited flights from India to the USA. Can you let me know If I book an economy class seat from SFO to Bengaluru (India) how much I will have to pay for the 3rd additional luggage?
Hi Suresh,
For an economy ticket between the US and India, you should need to pay $100 for your second checked bag, and $200 for your 3rd checked bag, for a total of $300.
Thanks for reading!
I paid for too many pre-checked bag fees. How do I get a refund on that?
Hi Jason,
You will need to contact the United customer service team for assistance with a refund. Their contact number is 1-800-864-8331.
Thanks for reading!
Can I use United miles to book for additional checked bags?
Hi Kamal,
At this time, no you’re not able to use United miles towards bags.
I’m scheduled to fly with United and Ethiopian to Africa. I have two 50lb bags and one carry on. Am I allowed to carry a 42” tv as an extra checked bag. If so how much will they charge me?
Hi Fasil,
Yes, you should be allowed to bring a TV as an extra checked bag but you likely will be subject to a $100 fee for the extra bag, and an oversized charge of $200 if the max linear dimensions exceed 62 inches/158 cm.
Hi. We are a family of 5 (all adults) and will leaving in 2 weeks from Manila to Fargo, ND through connecting flights with ANA and United Airlines. Layovers are in Haneda, LAX, and DEN. Do we have to pay for luggage? If not, how much can we bring? We have a total of 7 bags at less that 23 kilos each plus a small box of pull up bar weighing less than 10 kilos. Thanks!
Hi Jewel,
Is it United that you are flying with from the Philippines to the United States and did you book the entire journey on 1 ticket?
I am a premier silver member traveling with 8 companions on full economy from California to Honolulu. We are all on the same reservation. How many of my companions can get a free checked bag?
Hi Alisa,
United Airlines states “Travel companions of Premier members have the same exemptions as the Premier member whose status provides the benefit. This only applies if they’re traveling on the same reservation. Exemptions don’t apply to group reservations of 10 or more customers.” So your 8 companions should also receive the benefit.
I am a government employee with a United MileagePlus card that is in good standing. Since the US government bought my ticket, can I show my credit card and save checked fees for my bags?
Hi David,
Unfortunately not. The terms of the United MileagePlus cards state that you use purchase part of the flight with your card in order to receive the free checked baggage benefit.