United Airlines Baggage Policy and Fees 2025

What is United Airlines Baggage Policy?

Flying with United Airlines in 2025? Whether you’re heading across the U.S. or traveling abroad, it’s important to know what bags you can bring and how much they’ll cost. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the United Airlines baggage policy, including United baggage fees international, carry-on and checked bag rules, weight limits, fare-specific allowances, and more.

This article is written to make things simple and clear no airline jargon or confusing terms. If you’re a first-time traveler, a student, a family, or a frequent flyer, this guide is for you.

United Airlines Baggage Overview – What You Need to Know

United Airlines lets you bring two types of bags for free in most fare types:

One carry-on bag
One personal item (like a backpack, purse, or laptop bag)

Checked bags usually cost extra, unless you’re flying internationally or in a premium cabin. United Airlines baggage policy international flights often include free checked baggage, while domestic flights may not.

There are different rules based on:

Your ticket type (Basic Economy, Economy, Business, etc.)
Your route (domestic or international)
Your frequent flyer status
Whether you’re active military
If you hold a United Airlines credit card

Carry-On and Personal Item Rules

Let’s start with the basics: what you can bring on the plane with you.

Carry-On Bag (free for most tickets)

Size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including handles and wheels)
Weight: No specific weight limit, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin

Personal Item (free for all passengers)

Size limit: 17 x 10 x 9 inches
Must fit under the seat in front of you

Typical personal items include:

Backpack
Laptop bag
Purse or tote
Briefcase

Basic Economy Carry-On Rules

If you’re flying Basic Economy on domestic U.S. routes, you can only bring one personal item. No carry-on bag is allowed unless you:

Are traveling internationally
Have Premier status with MileagePlus
Have a United co-branded credit card

Trying to bring a carry-on anyway? United may ask you to check it at the gate and charge a United Airlines baggage fee for carry-on and checked baggage together.

Checked Baggage Rules (Economy, International, Business Class)

If you want to check a suitcase, here’s what the United Airlines baggage policy economy and other classes allow:

Standard Checked Bag Limits

Weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) for Economy
Size: 62 linear inches (L + W + H)
Business, First, Polaris: 70 lbs (32 kg)

Anything heavier than 50 lbs will be considered overweight baggage and charged extra.

United Airlines Baggage Fees (Domestic)

These are the standard United Airlines baggage fees for domestic flights (as of 2025):

Bag	Prepaid Online	Paid at Airport
1st	$35	$40
2nd	$45	$50

If you’re flying Basic Economy, you must pay even for the first bag.

Tip: Pay online before your flight it’s cheaper than paying at the airport.

United Baggage Fees – International Flights

When it comes to United baggage fees international, the rules are a bit more generous.

Most international routes include at least one free checked bag. Here are some examples:

United Airlines Baggage Policy International by Route:

Route	First Bag	Second Bag	Overweight Fees
U.S. → Europe	Free	$100	$100–$200
U.S. → South America	Free	$65–$100	$100–$200
U.S. → India, Africa	2 Free	$200+	Based on weight
U.S. → Canada, Mexico	$35	$45	Standard fees

Many travelers ask about the United Airlines international baggage weight most flights allow:

50 lbs (23 kg) per bag in Economy
70 lbs (32 kg) in Business or Polaris

For exact baggage costs, use the official United Airlines baggage calculator on their website.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees

Going over the weight or size limit? Here’s what you’ll pay:

Fees for Heavy Bags (Domestic and International):

51–70 lbs (23–32 kg): $100–$200 extra
71–100 lbs (32–45 kg): Up to $400 (varies by destination)
Bags over 100 lbs: Not accepted as checked baggage

Oversized Bags:

More than 62 linear inches but under 115 inches: $200–$300 fee
Bags over 115 linear inches: Not accepted

Pro tip: Use a luggage scale before heading to the airport to avoid surprises.

Baggage Policy by Fare Class

Here’s how different ticket types compare under the United Airlines baggage policy & fees economy:

Fare Type	Carry-On	Free Checked Bag	Baggage Weight
Basic Economy	No*	No	50 lbs
Standard Economy	Yes	Maybe (Intl)	50 lbs
Premium Economy	Yes	1–2 bags	50 lbs
Business	Yes	2 bags	70 lbs
Polaris	Yes	2 bags	70 lbs

*Basic Economy only allows carry-ons on international flights or for eligible members.

Military Baggage Benefits

If you’re an active-duty service member, United offers special baggage perks:

Official travel: 5 bags up to 100 lbs each
Personal travel: 3 bags up to 70 lbs each

These benefits apply regardless of fare type. Spouses and dependents may also get extra allowance if traveling on orders. This is part of the United Airlines baggage policy military program.

MileagePlus Members & Star Alliance Gold

United’s frequent flyer program, MileagePlus, comes with baggage perks too:

Status	Free Bags	Priority Handling
Premier Silver	1	Yes
Premier Gold	2	Yes
Premier Platinum	3	Yes
Premier 1K	3	Yes

If you’re a Star Alliance Gold member, you’ll also get extra baggage on United and partner flights.

Get Free Bags with United Credit Cards

Want to skip baggage fees? United’s co-branded credit cards can help:

United Explorer Card: 1st checked bag free for you + 1 companion
United Quest Card: 2 free bags
United Club Infinite: Premium travel perks

Note: You must purchase the ticket using your card to get the baggage benefit.

Special Items and Sports Gear

United allows many bulky or fragile items as checked baggage, but some may incur extra fees.

Allowed Items:

Golf clubs
Skis and snowboards
Musical instruments
Bicycles
Strollers and car seats (free for infants)

Fees depend on size, weight, and whether the item fits within the standard baggage allowance.

United Pet Travel Policy

Traveling with pets? Here’s a quick look at what’s allowed:

In-cabin pets: Small dogs, cats, and rabbits on select flights
- Fee: $125 each way (domestic)
Checked as baggage: Not available larger pets must travel through United’s PetSafe cargo program
Pet carrier size: Must fit under the seat (17.5 x 12 x 7.5 inches max)

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Some items can’t fly with you either in carry-on or checked bags.

Not Allowed:

Explosives, flammables
Firearms (unless declared and properly packed)
Loose lithium batteries (carry-on only)
Smart bags with non-removable batteries

Always check TSA and airline rules before packing.

Using United’s Baggage Fee Calculator

Want to know your exact baggage fees?

How to use the tool:

Go to united/baggagecalculator
Enter your flight details (origin, destination, fare class, MileagePlus number)
It shows what’s included and what you’ll pay

This tool is perfect for checking United Airlines baggage fees international flights, where costs can vary a lot.

Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees

Here are some simple ways to save money and avoid headaches:

Weigh your bags at home using a luggage scale
Pack lighter and wear bulkier clothes
Prepay for bags online to save up to $5 per bag
Use a United credit card or elite status for free baggage
Ship your luggage if it’s too heavy or oversized
Upgrade your ticket to Premium Economy or Business, where bags are often included

Related Guides You Might Find Helpful

If you’re planning your next trip with United Airlines, here are a few helpful travel resources to explore. Each guide offers practical insights to help you save money, make better booking decisions, and enjoy a smoother flying experience.

United Economy Fully Refundable Fare Policy Guide – Not sure if a refundable ticket is worth it? This guide breaks down how United Economy Fully Refundable fares work, the difference between refundable and non-refundable tickets, and when it makes sense to pay extra for flexibility especially if your travel plans may change.
Top United Airlines Promo Codes Today – Looking to cut down on travel costs? Our up-to-date list of United Airlines promo codes can help you find discounts on flights, seat upgrades, baggage fees, and more. Whether you’re flying domestic or international, this guide will help you unlock the best current deals.
United Airlines Seat Selection Cost – Wondering how much it costs to choose your seat? This guide explains the United Airlines seat selection policy, including when it’s free and when extra fees apply. You’ll also learn what to expect when selecting seats in Basic Economy, Economy Plus, Business Class, and Polaris.

These guides are perfect for anyone flying with United whether you’re booking your first trip or you’re a frequent traveler trying to save time and money. Explore them to get the most out of your journey.

Conclusion

Understanding the United Airlines baggage policy is essential before your flight whether you’re packing light or traveling internationally with multiple bags. From carry-on size limits to international baggage fees and special rules for Basic Economy or military personnel, planning ahead helps you avoid surprises at the airport. Always check your fare type and destination, as baggage fees and allowances can vary widely.

For the most up-to-date and clear information about United Airlines baggage fees, policies, and allowances, keep following Aerolineatelefono your trusted source for airline travel tips and insights.

FAQ

Can I prepay for United Airlines baggage fees online?

Yes, United Airlines allows you to prepay for your checked baggage during check-in through their website or mobile app. Doing this can sometimes be cheaper than paying at the airport.

Are United Airlines baggage fees the same for all destinations?

No, United Airlines baggage fees vary depending on your route, fare type, and destination. International flights usually have different baggage rules and pricing than domestic routes.

Does United Airlines allow free checked bags on international flights?

Some international fares on United include one or two free checked bags, especially in Economy Plus, Business, or Polaris class. However, Basic Economy international tickets may not include any free checked bags.

Is there a difference in baggage policy between United and United Express?

Yes, United Express (which is operated by regional partners) may have smaller aircraft with limited overhead bin space. This can affect carry-on rules, and gate-checking may be required even for standard-sized bags.

Does United Airlines offer baggage fee waivers for students?

United does not currently have a standard student baggage discount. However, some student travelers might benefit from flexible fare types or credit card perks that reduce baggage fees.

How early should I arrive at the airport if I have checked bags with United?

United recommends arriving at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights if you are checking bags. This ensures enough time for bag drop and security clearance.

Can I add extra baggage after booking my United Airlines ticket?

Yes, you can add checked bags after booking by going to “My Trips” on United’s website or app. Additional baggage fees may apply based on your fare type and route.

Are oversized sports equipment charged separately on United Airlines?

Yes, items like bikes, skis, and golf bags can incur oversized baggage fees unless they meet the airline’s special item exceptions. Charges depend on size, weight, and destination.

Can I combine baggage weight across multiple checked bags on United?

No, United does not allow combining weights. Each checked bag must individually meet the airline’s size and weight limits, or overweight fees will apply.

Does United Airlines offer baggage fee refunds if I cancel my flight?

United generally does not refund baggage fees unless the airline cancels your flight or there’s a schedule change. Always check the refund terms before paying for bags in advance.

United Airlines Baggage Policy & Fees (2025) – Carry-On, Checked & Weight Rules