United Airlines Baggage Fee: What You’ll Pay

United Airlines Baggage Fee policies are one of the most important cost factors travelers must understand before booking, as baggage charges can significantly affect your total ticket price. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, knowing United’s carry-on rules, checked baggage fees, and extra baggage charges helps you avoid surprise costs at the airport.

This comprehensive 2026 gumide breaks down everything you need to know about United’s baggage rules, updated fees, weight limits, and proven ways to reduce or avoid paying more than necessary.

Quick Overview: United Airlines Baggage Fee

United Airlines Baggage Fee varies by route, fare type, travel class, and timing, but generally ranges from $35–$40 for the first checked bag on domestic flights to $150 or more for extra or overweight bags. Fees are lower when prepaid online and higher at the airport. International routes may include free checked baggage depending on destination and cabin class, with charges dynamically applied based on eligibility and availability.

Baggage Costs & Factors

• Domestic Flights: First checked bag typically costs $35–$40; second bag $45–$50.
• International Flights: Often 1–2 free checked bags on long-haul routes (Europe/Asia).
• Extra Baggage: Third bag starts around $150, increasing for additional pieces.
• Overweight Pricing: 51–70 lbs $100; 71–100 lbs $200.
• Fare Type & Status: Basic Economy pays the most; elite status and credit cards reduce fees.

How to Find & Pay for Baggage Fees

• Manage Booking: View baggage allowance and prepay online via United’s website/app.
• Online Check-In (24 Hours Before): Add checked bags at discounted rates.
• Airport: Pay at kiosks or check-in counters (higher fees may apply).

Key Things to Know

• Prepay to Save: Online baggage payments are cheaper than airport rates.
• Carry-On Rules Matter: Basic Economy may restrict carry-on bags.
• Non-Refundable Fees: Baggage fees are usually non-refundable after check-in.
• Elite Benefits: MileagePlus members often receive free or discounted bags.

What Are the Baggage Fees on United Airlines in 2026?

In 2026, United Airlines Baggage Fees follow a dynamic pricing model that adjusts based on route, fare type, and booking method. Passengers who prepay checked baggage online or hold MileagePlus elite status receive discounted rates. However, Basic Economy travelers without United co-branded credit cards pay the highest baggage fees, as no free checked bags are included on most domestic routes.

How Much Is the Baggage Fee for United Airlines Flights?

United Airlines checked baggage fees in 2026 typically include:

• First checked bag: $35–$40
• Second checked bag: $45–$50
• Additional bags: $150 or more per bag

The United Airlines baggage fees vary by route, fare class, destination, and whether baggage is prepaid online or paid at the airport.

United Airlines Carry-On Baggage Fees 2026 Guide

Most United Airlines fares include one free carry-on bag and one personal item at no additional cost. However, United Airlines Carry-On Baggage Fees apply primarily to Basic Economy fares, especially on domestic routes, where carry-on privileges are restricted unless certain conditions are met.

Carry-On Baggage Fees for United Airlines Basic Economy

Passengers flying United Airlines Basic Economy may bring only one personal item for free. A standard carry-on bag is not included unless the traveler:

• Holds MileagePlus Premier status, or
• Uses a United co-branded credit card

If a carry-on is brought to the gate without eligibility, United may charge $25–$35 to check the bag at the gate, and fees can increase if paid at the airport rather than online.

United Airlines Baggage and Carry-On Fees – Size & Weight Rules

To avoid additional fees, carry-on luggage must meet United’s size requirements:

• Carry-on size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including handles and wheels)
• Personal item: Must fit completely under the seat in front of you

Bags exceeding size limits may be forced to gate-check, resulting in additional checked baggage fees ranging from $35 to $40 depending on route and fare.

How Much Are Checked Baggage Fees on United Airlines?

United Airlines Checked Baggage Fees vary based on fare type, destination, and MileagePlus elite status. Travelers who prepay checked baggage online usually save compared to airport rates. Fees increase for additional, overweight, or oversized bags, especially on domestic routes.

Checked Baggage Fees for United Airlines Domestic Flights

For most United Airlines domestic flights, economy passengers must pay for checked luggage unless they qualify for waivers through elite status or United co-branded credit cards. Typical 2026 domestic checked baggage pricing includes:

• First checked bag: $35–$40
• Second checked bag: $45–$50
• Third and additional bags: $150+ per bag

Prices may be higher when paid at the airport instead of online.

United Airline Check-In Baggage Fee by Fare Type

United Airlines applies different baggage rules depending on the fare purchased:

• Basic Economy:
  Checked baggage fees apply on all routes; no free checked bags included.
• Economy & Premium Economy:
  Paid checked bags apply, though Premium Economy may include higher weight limits on select routes.
• Business / First Class:
  Complimentary checked baggage allowance (typically 2 bags up to 70 lbs each).

How Much Does United Airlines Charge for Extra Baggage on International Routes?

United Airlines International Baggage Fees vary by destination, cabin class, and fare type. On many long-haul international routes, United includes at least one free checked bag, making international baggage allowances more generous than domestic policies—especially for flights to Europe and Asia.

United Airlines International Baggage Fees by Region

United’s international baggage policy differs by global region:

• Europe:
  Most fares include 1 free checked bag (up to 50 lbs / 23 kg).
• Asia:
  Many routes include 2 free checked bags, particularly on long-haul flights.
• Latin America:
  Baggage allowances vary by country and fare type; some routes include a free bag, while others charge $35–$50 for the first checked bag.

Additional bags on international routes typically cost $150 or more per bag, depending on destination.

Checked Baggage Fees United Airlines on Long-Haul Flights

Passengers flying in Business Class, Polaris, or First Class generally receive multiple free checked bags, often with higher weight limits of up to 70 lbs (32 kg) per bag. Premium cabins offer the most value for travelers carrying heavier or multiple bags.

How Much Is the Extra Baggage Fee on United Airlines?

United Airlines Extra Baggage Fee Breakdown

Extra Baggage United Airlines Fees start at $150 for the third checked bag and increase for each additional piece.

United Airlines Additional Baggage Fee – Third & Fourth Bags

• Third bag: ~$150
• Fourth bag: ~$200+

Extra Baggage United Airlines Fees for Frequent Flyers

Elite MileagePlus members often receive additional free bags, reducing total baggage costs significantly. For eligibility details, call +1 (866) 558-3017.

United Airlines Overweight Baggage Fee Explained

United Airlines Overweight Baggage Fees apply when a checked bag exceeds the standard 50-pound (23 kg) weight limit. These fees are charged in addition to standard checked baggage fees and vary based on the bag’s total weight.

United Airlines Overweight Baggage Fees by Weight Limit

United Airlines applies the following overweight baggage charges in 2026:

• 51–70 lbs (24–32 kg):$100 per bag
• 71–100 lbs (33–45 kg):$200 per bag
• Over 100 lbs:Not accepted for transport

Overweight fees apply per direction and may be higher on certain international routes.

How to Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees on United Airlines

Travelers can reduce or completely avoid United Airlines Overweight Baggage Fees by using the following proven strategies:

• Use a digital luggage scale before heading to the airport to ensure each checked bag stays under the 50-lb limit.
• Distribute weight evenly across multiple checked bags instead of packing one heavy suitcase.
• Upgrade to Business Class or First Class, which allows higher weight limits (up to 70 lbs per bag).
• Ship heavy or bulky items separately using cargo services or courier companies to avoid airline overweight charges.
• Prepay checked baggage online to save money and avoid higher airport fees.
• Leverage MileagePlus elite status or United credit cards, which may include higher baggage allowances.

United Airlines Baggage Fees by Travel Class

United Airlines Baggage Fees – Business Class

Passengers flying United Airlines Business Class or Polaris Business benefit from the most generous baggage allowance. Business Class tickets typically include:

• 2–3 free checked bags
• Up to 70 lbs (32 kg) per bag
• Free carry-on and personal item

This makes Business Class ideal for long-haul and international travel, especially for passengers traveling with multiple or heavy bags.

United Airlines Baggage Fees – Carry-On vs Checked

Across most United fares, carry-on baggage remains free, while checked baggage generates the highest additional costs. Key differences include:

• Carry-on: Free on most fares (except Basic Economy restrictions)
• Checked bags: $35–$50 for the first two bags on domestic economy routes
• Extra or overweight bags: $100–$200+ per bag

Choosing a fare with included checked baggage can significantly reduce total travel costs.

United Airline Baggage Fees for Economy & Premium Economy

Baggage allowances vary by fare type:

• Economy Class:
  Paid checked baggage applies; first checked bag typically costs $35–$40.
• Premium Economy:
  Includes improved baggage allowances, often with higher weight limits or discounted fees compared to standard economy.

Premium Economy is a cost-effective option for travelers who need extra baggage without upgrading to Business Class.

United Airline Baggage Fees for Economy & Premium Economy

Baggage allowances vary by fare type:

• Economy Class:
  Paid checked baggage applies; first checked bag typically costs $35–$40.
• Premium Economy:
  Includes improved baggage allowances, often with higher weight limits or discounted fees compared to standard economy.

Premium Economy is a cost-effective option for travelers who need extra baggage without upgrading to Business Class.

United Airlines Baggage Fee Comparison (2026)

Conclusion

United Airlines Baggage Fee policies in 2026 are straightforward but vary by fare type, route, and travel class. Understanding carry-on rules, checked baggage costs, and international allowances helps travelers avoid unexpected fees. By prepaying baggage, choosing the right fare, or using elite status and credit cards, passengers can significantly reduce overall baggage expenses and travel with confidence.

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