United Airlines Baggage Policy Explained: Fees, Allowances, and Rules

As a global carrier, United Airlines handles millions of bags each year. You are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on most flights. Meanwhile, checked baggage rules vary by route, fare class, and loyalty status.

In this blog, we’ll unpack the full Bag Policy of United Airlines and cover all the details you need, from carry-on luggage rules to baggage allowance on international flights with United, and everything in between.

Carry-On and Personal Item Rules

What you can bring on board:

On most United domestic and international flights, you can bring:

• One carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin.

• One personal item that fits under the seat.

Approved size limits according to the United:

• Carry-on bag: 9 in x 14 in x 22 in (23 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm) including wheels and handles.

• Personal item: 9 in x 10 in x 17 in (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm).

Personal items can include small backpacks, purses, laptop bags, or briefcases.

Special fare: Basic Economy

If you have booked on a Basic Economy fare:

• You’re allowed one personal item only.

• A full carry-on bag is not included, unless your trip is to South America, across the Atlantic, or across the Pacific.

• If you bring a carry-on bag to the airport lobby (before security) for a restricted route, you must check it and pay a fee starting at US $35.

• If you bring a carry-on bag to the gate (i.e., board with it) and it doesn’t fit under the seat or meet the allowance, a fee starting at US $65 is applied.

• Exceptions: If you hold MileagePlus Premier status, are travelling with a Premier member, are the primary cardholder of a qualifying MileagePlus credit card, or hold Star Alliance Gold status, then you may bring one free carry-on bag even on Basic Economy.

Prohibited items:

United maintains a list of dangerous and restricted items. Items that are denied in carry-on may be accepted in checked baggage (if allowed) but must comply with the rules for checked equipment, such as size, weight, and total dimension.

Checked Baggage for Domestic Flights

If you're flying within the U.S., or heading to Canada, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, United’s checked baggage rules are pretty straightforward, but they still depend on the fare you booked, your status, and your route.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Bag Size: Your checked bag must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm) in total dimensions, which includes wheels and handles.

• Weight Limit:

• Economy: Up to 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag.

• United Business®, United First®, United Polaris®, or elite members: Up to 70 lbs (32 kg)

Important update: From February 24, 2024, United increased first and second checked bag fees by $5 in most markets.

Tips for domestic checked bags:

• Pay for bags online before you get to the airport; the fee is usually lower.

• Double-check your bag size and weight at home.

• Bags over 100 lbs (45 kg) or measuring more than 115 in (292 cm) aren’t accepted at all.

• If your bag is too big or heavy, extra fees apply, and you may even need to check it at the gate.

Checked Baggage for International Flights

When you’re flying internationally with United Airlines, your checked baggage allowance isn’t the same for everyone; it really depends on your route, fare type, and cabin class. So, it’s always worth checking these details before you head out to the airport.

Baggage allowance for international flights with United:

On many long-haul international routes, United allows you to check

• Up to two bags, and each bag can weigh up to 70 lbs (32 kg).

However, keep in mind that oversized or additional bags may not be allowed on certain routes, so sticking to the size and weight rules is important.

• The maximum size for each checked bag is typically 62 inches (158 cm) in total, which includes length + width + height, wheels, and handles too.

If you’re traveling in Economy Class on some international routes, your first checked bag might be included in your fare, but the second bag may come with a fee. Meanwhile, if you’re flying in higher cabins like Business or First Class, it’s much more common to get two checked bags free as part of the ticket benefits.

A Few Helpful Reminders:

• Different regions have different baggage rules, especially when flying to Asia, Africa, South America, or the Pacific. So, always make sure to double-check your allowance during booking or through United’s Manage Booking section.

• If you’re booked in United Polaris®, United First®, or United Business®, or you hold elite status, you usually get higher weight limits and more free luggage, a great perk for long trips.

Also read The Ultimate Guide to United Airlines Business Class in 2026

Weight and Size Limits

Before you start packing, it’s important to make sure your bags meet United’s approved size and weight rules. This helps you avoid unexpected fees or last-minute stress at the airport.

Carry-on Bags:

• Your carry-on must fit properly in the overhead bin. United allows maximum dimensions of 9 in x 14 in x 22 in (about 23 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including any handles and wheels.

Checked Bags (Domestic and many International Routes):

• For checked luggage, the maximum size United accepts is 62 in (158 cm) total when you add length + width + height.

• If your bag is larger than this, it will likely count as oversized, and additional fees will apply.

On most international routes, keeping your checked bag below the 62-inch limit is required for standard baggage acceptance.

So, grabbing a tape measure before you travel is always a smart move.

Restricted and Special Items on United Airlines

Some items can’t be packed freely, even if they fit the size and weight rules. United has clear policies to keep travel safe and smooth.

Hazardous or Prohibited Items:

Explosives, flammable materials, certain chemicals, and restricted batteries are not allowed. Some items may be permitted only in checked bags or only in carry-on.

Special Items and Fragile Goods:

Musical instruments, artwork, electronics, medical devices, and other delicate items may need proper packing or special handling. Assistive devices like wheelchairs are accepted but should be arranged in advance.

Oversized or Overweight Items:

Bags over 100 lbs (45 kg) or larger than 115 in (292 cm) aren’t accepted. Extra fees apply if luggage exceeds standard limits.

Carry-On Restrictions:

Spare lithium batteries, e-cigarettes, and certain electronics must follow specific carry-on rules. Always confirm before packing.

Baggage Rules for United Airlines & Carry-On Luggage Rules United

To make your trip easier, here are the most important baggage rules every United traveler should remember:

• Always pack within the allowance: Even if a bag meets all size requirements, United may still gate-check it when overhead bins fill up, especially on United Express flights with smaller aircraft.

• Basic Economy Travelers: If you're booked under Basic Economy, you’re usually limited to one personal item only. Trying to board with a full carry-on could mean checking the bag at the gate with a fee added on the spot.

• Save money by paying early: United lets you prepay your checked bag fees online, and sometimes you can even save a bit if you do this more than 24 hours before departure.

• “Most flights” offer a free carry-on: While many tickets allow one carry-on plus one personal item, some routes and fare types differ, so always review what applies to your specific itinerary.

• Elite status pays off: MileagePlus Premier members and eligible United credit cardholders can enjoy more flexible baggage allowances or even waived baggage fees. It’s always worth checking your benefits.

Also read How to Check In with United Airlines

FAQs About the United Airlines Baggage Policy

Q1. How many bags can I bring as carry-on on United Airlines?

Most passengers can bring one carry-on bag plus one personal item for free.

Q2. Does Basic Economy include a carry-on bag?

On most U.S. domestic Basic Economy tickets, only a personal item is allowed unless you meet an exception, like status or certain international routes.

Q3. What are the size limits for carry-on luggage?

Carry-on size limit is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and personal item size limit is 17 x 10 x 9 inches.

Q4. What is the standard checked baggage weight allowance?

Economy travelers typically get 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag. Premium cabins and select international routes may allow 70 lbs (32 kg).

Q5. How big can a checked bag be?

The total size of a checked bag must stay within 62 linear inches, including length, width, and height.

Q6. Are baggage fees the same for all flights?

No, fees depend on the route, cabin, fare type, and MileagePlus status. Domestic flights usually charge for checked bags.

Q7. Can I prepay my checked baggage fees?

Yes, and prepaying online can sometimes save money and time at the airport.

Conclusion

Understanding the bag policy United Airlines helps you avoid unexpected fees and travel with confidence. The baggage allowance for United Airlines depends on your route, fare type, and status, with baggage allowance for international flights usually offering more than domestic routes. Always check the latest baggage rules for United Airlines to ensure your bags meet size and weight limits.

By staying informed about the baggage allowance United provides and following the official baggage policy of United, you can enjoy a smoother airport experience.

Ready to book your next trip? Head over to Flightsquest and secure your flight with confidence. Pack smart and travel easily by booking your United Airlines flight with Flightsquest.