Key Takeaways
- United Airlines allows one free personal item for all fares, but carry-on and checked bag rules vary by fare type.
- Basic Economy permits only a personal item, while Standard Economy and above include a full-size carry-on.
- Checked bag fees start at $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second on most U.S. domestic routes.
- MileagePlus Premier members and United credit card holders receive free checked bags.
- Weight and size limits apply: checked bags must be under 50 lbs (23 kg) and 62 linear inches (157 cm) total.
Before heading to the airport, understanding United Airlines’ baggage policy can help you avoid surprise fees and delays. The rules differ depending on your fare type, route, and MileagePlus status, and knowing these distinctions can save you both money and time.
In this guide, we’ll break down what’s included for free, what costs extra, and how to plan your bags smartly, whether you’re flying Basic Economy, Economy Plus, or Polaris Business Class.
Many travelers share recent fee updates and real-world baggage tips inside our Talk Travel United Airlines Forums.
1. Personal Item and Carry-On Allowance
Every United passenger gets one personal item free of charge. The item must fit completely under the seat in front of you and not exceed 9” x 10” x 17”.
If you’re flying Standard Economy or higher, you can also bring one carry-on bag (up to 9” x 14” x 22”) that fits in the overhead bin.
| Fare Type | Personal Item | Carry-On | Notes |
| Basic Economy | Yes | No | Exceptions apply for elite members & credit card holders |
| Economy / Economy Plus | Yes | Yes | Included in fare |
| Premium Plus / Polaris Business | Yes | Yes | Priority boarding + larger overhead space |
If you’re traveling in Basic Economy, carrying a full-size bag to the gate may trigger a $25 gate fee plus the checked baggage fee. For details, see our guide on Does United Airlines Charge for Carry On.
2. Checked Bag Policy
Most United passengers pay for checked bags unless their fare, route, or elite status includes them for free.
| Route Type | 1st Bag | 2nd Bag | Weight Limit |
| U.S. Domestic | $35 | $45 | 50 lbs (23 kg) |
| U.S. – Latin America | $35–$65 | $45–$100 | 50 lbs (23 kg) |
| U.S. – Europe / Asia | 1st Free (in most cases) | $100+ | 50 lbs (23 kg) |
| Polaris / Premium Plus | 2 Free | 3rd $150 | 70 lbs (32 kg) |
You can check the exact allowance for your trip using the United Baggage Calculator.
Pro Tip: Paying for bags online in advance often saves $5 per bag compared to paying at the airport.
3. Status and Credit Card Benefits
If you’re a frequent United flyer or hold a co-branded credit card, you may qualify for free checked bags.
| Status / Card | Free Bags | Applies To |
| MileagePlus Premier Silver | 1 free | Yourself + 1 companion |
| Premier Gold | 2 free | Yourself + 1 companion |
| Premier Platinum / 1K | 3 free | Yourself + 1 companion |
| United℠ Explorer Card | 1 free | Cardholder + 1 companion |
| United℠ Club Infinite Card | 2 free | Cardholder + 1 companion |
If you’re comparing whether these benefits justify the fare upgrade, see our breakdown on Is United Premium Economy Worth It.
4. Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees
If your checked bag weighs over 50 lbs (23 kg) or exceeds 62 linear inches, additional fees apply:
- 51–70 lbs: +$100 each way (U.S. domestic)
- 71–100 lbs: +$200 each way
- Oversized bags (63–115 inches): +$200 each way
- Bags larger than 115 inches are not accepted
If you’re packing large equipment like golf clubs, our detailed guide on How Much Does It Cost to Fly with Golf Clubs covers handling tips and airline-specific fees.
5. International and Long-Haul Rules
International flights, particularly to Europe and Asia, are generally more generous. Most Economy fares include one free checked bag, while Premium Plus and Polaris include two or more.
However, weight restrictions are strictly enforced, especially at Asian airports, so always verify your allowance before departure.
Travelers frequently post baggage weight experiences from Tokyo, London, and Frankfurt on the Talk Travel United Airlines Forums.
6. Smart Packing Tips to Avoid Fees
- Prepay online: Save up to $10 on round-trip bag fees.
- Use a United credit card: It pays for itself after a few trips with free bags.
- Pack smart: Use compression cubes and avoid bulky luggage.
- Weigh bags at home: Avoid airport surprises with a simple luggage scale.
- Consolidate items: If traveling as a couple or family, share checked bags.
If you’re flying long-haul in Economy, check our practical United Economy Long Haul Tips for comfort strategies and packing hacks.
Conclusion
United Airlines’ baggage policy is clear but layered, what you can bring depends on your fare type, route, and loyalty status.
For most travelers, the best value comes from Standard Economy fares or higher, which include a carry-on and personal item without surprise fees.
If you often travel with gear or larger bags, consider earning MileagePlus status or using a United credit card for ongoing savings. And always double-check your route’s baggage calculator before booking.
Want to see how recent travelers handled United’s baggage limits or saved on fees? Visit the Talk Travel United Airlines Forums to read real reports and updates from flyers.
Related Guides