United Airlines charges $35 for the first checked bag on most domestic economy tickets in 2026. The second checked bag costs $45. Carry-on luggage is always free. Here’s a complete guide to United’s baggage fees, who gets bags for free, and how to avoid paying.
United Airlines Bag Fees — Domestic (2026)
| Bag | Economy / Basic Economy | United Explorer Cardholders | Elite Status (Silver+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal item | Free | Free | Free |
| Carry-on | Free | Free | Free |
| 1st checked bag | $35 | Free | Free |
| 2nd checked bag | $45 | $45 | Free (Gold+) |
| 3rd checked bag | $150 | $150 | $150 |
Fees apply per person, each way. United adjusts fees periodically; always verify at united.com before travel.
United Airlines Bag Fees — International Routes
International baggage allowances vary significantly by route:
| Route | Economy 1st Bag | Economy 2nd Bag | Business Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transatlantic (Europe) | Free | $100 | 2 bags free |
| Trans-Pacific (Asia) | Free | Free | 2 bags free |
| Latin America | $35 | $45 | 2 bags free |
| Caribbean | $35 | $45 | 2 bags free |
| Canada | $35 | $45 | 2 bags free |
The DOT requires airlines to disclose bag fees at the time of ticket purchase — you’ll see exact fees for your route in the booking flow.
United Baggage Size and Weight Limits
Standard checked bag requirements:
- Weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) maximum
- Size: 62 linear inches maximum (length + width + height)
- Most rolling suitcases up to 26" fit within the linear inch limit
Oversize and overweight fees:
| Situation | Additional Fee |
|---|---|
| 51–70 lbs (overweight) | $100 extra |
| Over 70 lbs | Not accepted as checked luggage |
| 63–115 linear inches (oversized) | $200 extra |
| Sports equipment (golf, ski, bike) | Varies by item ($150–$200+) |
Carry-on size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including handles and wheels). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Who Gets Free Checked Bags on United?
United MileagePlus Elite Status:
- Premier Silver: First bag free
- Premier Gold: First and second bag free
- Premier Platinum and 1K: First and second bag free
United co-branded credit cards:
- United Explorer Card ($0/$95 annual fee): First bag free for cardholder + 1 companion on the same reservation
- United Quest Card ($250 annual fee): First and second bag free
- United Club Infinite Card ($525 annual fee): First and second bag free
Star Alliance Gold members: Traveling on a United ticket, Star Alliance Gold status (earned through any Star Alliance partner program) entitles you to one free checked bag on United flights.
How to Avoid United Bag Fees
- Get the United Explorer Card: The $95 annual fee pays for itself if you check bags even twice a year ($35 × 2 round trips = $140 saved, net $45 ahead).
- Pack light: A personal item (backpack, laptop bag) that fits under the seat is always free and clears security faster.
- Buy fare classes that include bags: United Polaris business class includes 2 free checked bags. First/business class domestic tickets include 2 free bags.
- Ship luggage: For longer trips, shipping via FedEx or UPS may cost less than bag fees and avoids baggage claim delays.
- Weigh your bag before leaving home: An inexpensive luggage scale prevents surprise overweight fees at the airport.
United Basic Economy Baggage Rules
United Basic Economy tickets include:
- ✅ One personal item (under seat)
- ✅ One carry-on (overhead bin)
- ❌ Checked bags are NOT included — fees apply per bag
- ❌ No seat selection before check-in
- ❌ No same-day changes or upgrades
Basic Economy fare holders with a qualifying United card or elite status still receive their bag fee waivers.
See our United Airlines Basic Economy vs. Economy comparison to decide which fare is worth buying, and our best travel insurance guide to protect your trip.
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