What Is My Baggage Allowance on United Airlines?



Traveling with United Airlines soon and trying to figure out how many bags you’re allowed to bring? You’re not alone — United’s baggage rules shift depending on the flight, fare, and even your membership level, making them a bit tricky at first glance. But once broken down, they’re surprisingly manageable.

Let’s walk through your United Airlines baggage allowance in a simple, easy-to-follow way so you can pack confidently and avoid unwanted fees.

Why United’s Baggage Rules Can Feel Confusing

United doesn't follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Your baggage allowance depends on:

  • Fare type

  • Route

  • Cabin class

  • MileagePlus membership

Because these vary widely, travelers often end up with different allowances even when flying on the same aircraft.

Understanding the checked baggage allowance on united airlines

Domestic Travel Allowances

For most U.S. domestic flights:

  • Basic Economy → no free checked bags

  • Standard Economy → no free checked bags

  • Premium Economy/Economy Plus → fees still apply

  • Business & First Class → two free checked bags

Weight limit: 50 lbs (23 kg)
 Size limit: 62 linear inches

International Travel Allowances

Most international routes include at least:

  • 1 free checked bag for Economy

  • 2 free checked bags for Premium Economy, Business & First

Flights to Europe, Asia, and South America tend to offer the best allowances.

What Baggage Is Included With the United Economy?

Basic Economy

Basic Economy includes:

  • 1 personal item

  • 1 carry-on (usually, but not always — depends on route)

  • No free checked bags

Standard Economy

Standard Economy includes:

  • 1 carry-on

  • 1 personal item

  • 1 free checked bag on many international flights

  • No free domestic checked bags

It’s a noticeable upgrade compared to Basic Economy.

How Much Is the united airlines checked baggage fee?

First & Second Bag Pricing

Typical domestic pricing:

  • First checked bag → $30

  • Second checked bag → $40

MileagePlus credit card holders may receive the first bag free.

Extra Bag Charges

Additional baggage costs more:

  • Third bag → $150+

  • Overweight bags → $100–$200

  • Oversized bags → $200–$400

Fees for international flights can be higher.

Official united airlines checked baggage size Limits

Size Restrictions

United requires all checked bags to measure:

  • 62 linear inches (L + W + H)

Anything bigger is considered oversized and will be charged accordingly.

Weight Restrictions

  • Economy → 50 lbs (23 kg)

  • Premium cabins → 70 lbs (32 kg)

Even slight overages can trigger an extra fee.

Overview of united airlines baggage fees

Domestic Fees

  • 1st bag → $30

  • 2nd bag → $40

  • 3rd+ → $150+

  • Oversize → $200–$400

  • Overweight → $100–$200

International Fees

Economy on many long-haul flights offers:

  • 1 free checked bag

Premium cabins typically include two free bags.

Key checked baggage rules united airlines to Remember

  • Bag size must be under 62 linear inches

  • Weight limits are enforced carefully

  • Basic Economy rarely includes free checked bags

  • Carry-on rules can differ by route

  • Free checked bags vary by destination

Always double-check your specific fare — rules can differ.

Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees

  • Pay for bags online before arriving at the airport

  • Use soft luggage to avoid oversize measurements

  • Weigh your bag at home

  • Split weight across multiple bags

  • Consider a United MileagePlus credit card for a free checked bag

Even small steps can help you save big.

FAQs

1. What is United’s checked baggage size limit?
 62 linear inches.

2. Does United charge for checked bags?
 Yes — domestic Economy fares start at $30.

3. Do international flights include free baggage?
 Most long-haul routes include at least one free checked bag.

4. What are the weight limits?
 50 lbs for Economy; 70 lbs for premium cabins.

5. Does Basic Economy include a carry-on?
 Most routes allow it, but some do not.

6. How can I avoid checked baggage fees?
 Consider MileagePlus credit cards or premium cabin upgrades.

Conclusion

Your checked baggage allowance on united airlines depends mainly on your fare type and your destination. Domestic flights often require paying for checked bags, while international travelers usually enjoy more generous allowances. By understanding the united airlines checked baggage size, fees, and specific rules, you’ll be prepared — and much less likely to face surprise charges at the airport.

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