# **United Airlines Baggage Allowance for Carry-On and Checked Baggage: A Complete Guide**

United Airlines offers one carry-on and personal item. Checked bag fees vary. Call 1-833-341-3894 for details or help.

Traveling with United Airlines soon? Whether you're a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, understanding United Airlines' baggage policy is essential to avoid surprises at the airport. United has a well-structured baggage allowance system that varies by fare class, route, loyalty status, and more. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of United Airlines baggage policies, including carry-on and checked baggage, special item handling, fees, allowances, and more.

---

## **1. Introduction to United Airlines Baggage Policy**

United Airlines is one of the largest and most popular airlines in the world. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, United serves hundreds of domestic and international destinations. Like most major airlines, United enforces specific rules regarding what passengers can carry onboard and check in as baggage.

The airline’s baggage policy includes:

* **Carry-On Baggage Allowance**
* **Checked Baggage Allowance**
* **Excess Baggage Charges**
* **Baggage Restrictions**
* **Special Baggage (Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, etc.)**

Understanding these policies in detail can help you pack smart, avoid additional charges, and enjoy a smooth travel experience.

---

## **2. Carry-On Baggage Allowance**

United Airlines offers a standard carry-on baggage allowance for most passengers. This typically includes:

### **a. One Carry-On Bag**

* **Size Limit**: 9 x 14 x 22 inches (22 x 35 x 56 cm), including handles and wheels.
* **Weight Limit**: No official weight limit, but the bag must fit in the overhead bin without assistance.

### **b. One Personal Item**

* **Size Limit**: 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm)
* **Examples**: Laptop bag, purse, small backpack, briefcase.
* Must fit under the seat in front of you.

### **Carry-On Exceptions**

* **Basic Economy Tickets** (domestic and select international routes): Only allowed **one personal item**. No full-size carry-on bag unless you're:

* A Premier® member
* A Star Alliance™ Gold member
* Traveling with a MileagePlus® credit card
* On a transatlantic or transpacific flight

### **Assistive Devices and Special Items**

Passengers can also carry the following items onboard for free:

* Mobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers)
* Child safety seats
* Breast pumps and milk
* Diaper bags (if traveling with a child)
* Jackets, umbrellas, duty-free items

---

## **3. Checked Baggage Allowance**

United Airlines’ checked baggage policy varies based on several factors:

* Fare type (Basic Economy, Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class)
* Destination (Domestic vs International)
* MileagePlus status
* Credit card affiliations

### **a. Checked Bag Size and Weight Limits**

* **Maximum size**: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
* **Maximum weight**:

* **50 lbs (23 kg)** for Economy
* **70 lbs (32 kg)** for Business/First or for Premier members on international flights

---

## **4. Checked Baggage Allowance by Fare Type**

### **a. Basic Economy**

* **Domestic**: No free checked bags. Fees apply starting from \$35 for the first bag.
* **International**: May include one free checked bag depending on the destination.

### **b. Standard Economy**

* **Domestic**: No free checked bag (fees apply).
* **International (e.g., Europe, Asia)**: Often includes one free checked bag.

### **c. Premium Economy (United Premium Plus)**

* Usually includes **two free checked bags** on most long-haul international routes.

### **d. Business and First Class**

* **Two free checked bags** (up to 70 lbs each).

---

## **5. Checked Baggage Fees (Domestic and International)**

United’s baggage fees vary by route and booking method. Here’s a general idea:

### **a. Domestic Flights (U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands)**

* **First bag**: \$35 (online), \$40 (at airport)
* **Second bag**: \$45 (online), \$50 (at airport)
* Additional bags: Starting at \$150 each

### **b. Canada and Mexico**

* First bag: \$30–\$35
* Second bag: \$50
* Additional bags: Higher fees apply

### **c. International Flights (e.g., Europe, Asia, South America)**

* **Most transatlantic routes**: 1 free bag in Economy; 2 in Premium or higher classes
* Additional or overweight bags: Fees can range from \$100–\$200 per bag

### **d. How to Save on Baggage Fees**

* Prepay online or via United’s mobile app
* Get a United-branded credit card (like the Explorer Card)
* Achieve MileagePlus Premier status

---

## **6. Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees**

United is strict with its size and weight limits. Baggage exceeding these limits incurs extra fees.

### **a. Overweight Fees**

* **50–70 lbs (23–32 kg)**: \$100–\$200 per bag
* **70–100 lbs (32–45 kg)**: \$200–\$400 per bag
* Bags over 100 lbs are **not accepted** on most routes

### **b. Oversize Fees**

* **63–115 linear inches (160–292 cm)**: \$200 per bag
* Bags larger than 115 inches are **not accepted**

---

## **7. Special Items and Sports Equipment**

United Airlines has specific policies for transporting special items:

### **a. Musical Instruments**

* Small instruments (violins, guitars) can be carried onboard if they fit in overhead bins
* Large instruments may require a separate seat purchase or can be checked

### **b. Sports Equipment**

Accepted sports items include:

* Golf clubs
* Skis and snowboards
* Bicycles (packed in a hard case)
* Surfboards and paddleboards (restrictions apply)

Fees range from **\$30–\$150+** depending on size, weight, and destination.

---

## **8. Traveling with Infants and Children**

United is family-friendly and offers these baggage allowances:

### **a. Infant on Lap (Domestic)**

* No separate baggage allowance
* You can bring a **diaper bag**, **stroller**, and **car seat** free of charge

### **b. Child with Own Seat**

* Eligible for standard baggage allowance according to fare type

### **c. Child Restraint Systems**

* Approved car seats can be used onboard for children under 2 years

---

## **9. Military Baggage Policy**

United offers generous allowances for active U.S. military personnel and their dependents:

* Up to **5 free checked bags** for active duty members traveling on orders
* Up to **3 free checked bags** for personal travel
* Maximum weight per bag: 70 lbs
* Maximum size: 115 linear inches

Valid military ID and active orders are required.

---

## **10. United MileagePlus Status Benefits**

Elite status members enjoy additional baggage privileges:

| **Status Tier** | **Free Bags** | **Weight per Bag** |
| ---------------- | ------------- | ------------------ |
| Premier Silver | 1 | 70 lbs |
| Premier Gold | 2 | 70 lbs |
| Premier Platinum | 3 | 70 lbs |
| Premier 1K | 3 | 70 lbs |

---

## **11. Credit Card Baggage Perks**

Passengers holding a **United Explorer Card**, **United Quest Card**, or **United Club Infinite Card** are entitled to:

* **1st checked bag free** for the cardholder and one companion (on United flights purchased with the card)
* Savings up to \$140 roundtrip

---

## **12. Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage**

### **a. Lost Baggage**

* File a report at the airport or via United's website/app
* Track your bag using the United app
* Compensation: Up to \$3,800 (domestic) and \$1,800 (international)

### **b. Delayed Baggage**

* Essentials may be reimbursed during the delay
* File claim within 24 hours

### **c. Damaged Baggage**

* Must be reported within 24 hours (domestic) or 7 days (international)
* United may repair or replace items

---

## **13. Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees**

* **Pack light** and use a carry-on if allowed
* **Prepay for baggage** online for discounts
* Use a **United credit card** or aim for elite status
* Consider **vacuum-sealing** clothes to fit more into one bag
* **Weigh your bags** at home before heading to the airport

---

## **14. How to Pay for Baggage**

You can pay your baggage fees through the following channels:

* During online check-in (united.com or mobile app)
* At a kiosk at the airport
* With a United agent at the check-in counter

**Tip**: Paying in advance online is often **cheaper** than at the airport.

---

## **15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)**

### **Q1: Can I bring a backpack and a carry-on bag on United?**

Yes, if your fare allows. Most fares allow one carry-on bag and one personal item like a backpack. Basic Economy only includes one personal item.

### **Q2: What if my bag is slightly over the weight limit?**

Even 1 lb over the limit may trigger a fee. It's best to repack or redistribute items between bags.

### **Q3: Are there any free checked bags for international flights?**

Yes, many international flights include at least one free checked bag in Economy. Always check your booking details.

### **Q4: Can I add bags after booking my ticket?**

Yes. You can log into your United account or app and prepay for checked bags before your flight.

---

## **16. Conclusion**

United Airlines offers a comprehensive and flexible baggage policy designed to meet the needs of different travelers. Whether you’re flying domestic on Basic Economy or traveling internationally in Polaris Business Class, knowing your baggage allowance can save you time, stress, and money.

To summarize:

* Always check your **fare type and route** before packing
* Use the **United app or website** to prepay for bags and save on fees
* Consider a **United credit card** or joining MileagePlus to get free bags
* Pack smart and within weight limits to avoid extra charges

Staying informed about United’s baggage policy ensures you enjoy a smoother journey, right from check-in to your final destination.