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What Are the Rules for Checked Bags on United?

The allowance and fees for checked bags may vary based on your ticket type, frequent flyer status, and destination. The maximum dimensions for a checked bag are 30 inches x 20 inches x 12 inches (76 cm x 52 cm x 30 cm) or 62 inches in total, including handles and wheels. If your baggage exceeds the weight limits, the airline will impose an additional baggage fee. Therefore, it's important to carefully review the airline's baggage policy before packing to avoid any extra costs.

What Is the Baggage Policy of United Airlines?

United Airlines baggage policy may vary depending on the ticket type, travel destination, and whether the travel is domestic or international. Below is a brief description of the airline's baggage policy to ensure a convenient and stress-free trip.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance 

Economy Class passengers are typically allowed to bring a single personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, along with one standard carry-on bag. Conversely, Premium Class and United Business travelers may receive additional allowances, such as a second personal item or a larger carry-on bag.

Your carry-on bag must be able to fit in the overhead bin, meeting the dimensions of 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (23 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including the handle and wheels. Meanwhile, your personal item should fit under the seat in front of you, adhering to the dimensions of 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm). Common examples of personal items include purses and backpacks. Therefore, any item that exceeds these weight limits will be charged extra by the airline. 

Checked Baggage Allowance 

Checked bag allowances and fees can vary based on your ticket category, frequent flyer status, and travel destination. Within the United States, Economy Class tickets typically include a free checked bag with size and weight restrictions. Meanwhile, as per the United Baggage Policy, Business Class and First Class tickets usually provide higher baggage allowances or complimentary checked bags, depending on the fare type.

The maximum dimensions for a checked bag are usually 30 inches x 20 inches x 12 inches (76 cm x 52 cm x 30 cm) or a total of 62 inches, including handles and wheels. The weight limit is generally around 23 kg for standard economy and around 32 kg for business and first class on domestic flights. The fees for checked baggage vary by route and are higher for overweight and oversized bags.

Checked Baggage Fee: The first checked bag for domestic flights in the U.S. usually incurs a fee of approximately $30, while the second checked bag costs around $40 if paid for at the airport. The fees for checked bags on international flights can differ widely, and some routes provide complimentary checked baggage.

Baggage Policy for Basic Economy

Basic Economy fare purchasers need to be mindful of the stricter baggage regulations. For domestic flights, passengers with Basic Economy tickets can only bring a personal item. Nevertheless, on transatlantic and transpacific flights, a full-sized carry-on bag is allowed. Additionally, passengers with Basic Economy tickets who bring a full-sized carry-on bag on restricted routes might have to pay a fee and have the bag checked at the gate.

Baggage Allowance for Premier Members

Premier members and MileagePlus credit cardholders of United Airlines can enjoy benefits such as complimentary checked bags and priority boarding. Premier members, based on their status as silver, gold, platinum, or 1K, are eligible for varying numbers of free checked bags. Meanwhile, United MileagePlus credit cardholders can bring along one or more free checked bags on United-operated flights.

What Is the Maximum Amount of Luggage Allowed on International Flights?

The limit for luggage on international flights may differ based on the traveler's fare class, MileagePlus status, and the specific route they are flying. The size of a checked bag should not go beyond 30 inches in length, 20 inches in width, and 12 inches in height, totaling 62 inches, including handles and wheels (76 cm x 52 cm x 30 cm).

Passengers in economy and premium economy are permitted a maximum weight of 23kg for their luggage, whereas first class, business class, and MileagePlus Premier members can check in bags weighing up to 32kg. Any bags exceeding these limits might incur fees for overweight or oversized baggage, or both if the bag surpasses both limits.

What Does United Consider as Oversized Baggage?

Make sure your checked bag does not exceed the dimensions of 76 cm x 52 cm x 30 cm to avoid extra baggage fees. Additionally, standard economy bags should not weigh more than 23 kg, while business and first-class bags should not exceed 32 kg; bags larger than these limits will not be accepted by United. Be sure to thoroughly review the airline's baggage policy before packing to prevent any additional baggage fees.

Things to Consider Before Packing the Bag

In order to avoid paying any kind of extra baggage fee, one must keep in mind the following things mentioned below to ensure a hassle-free travel journey: 

  • Make sure that your carry-on and checked bags meet United's size and weight limitations to prevent additional charges. Utilize durable luggage with clear and easy-to-read tags.
  • Don't forget to give yourself enough time at the airport to check in, drop off your belongings, and go through security. By doing this, you can avoid missing flights and reduce stress.
  • Be sure to clearly mark your checked luggage with your contact details. You should use a distinct tag to make it easier to spot your bags.
  • Before your trip, make sure to review United Airlines? baggage rules as policies may change, to ensure that you are aware of the most recent rules and fees.

Conclusion 

For a smoother and more convenient travel experience with United Airlines, it's necessary to have a good understanding of the airline's baggage policy. It's advisable for travelers to thoroughly review the terms and conditions related to their specific tickets to prevent any unexpected fees. Furthermore, accessing the official airline website or contacting a customer service representative can provide detailed information about United Airlines baggage policies.

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