When flying with United Airlines, the weight limits for checked bags differ depending on your fare type. Here’s what you need to know:
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Economy class passengers: 50 pounds per bag.
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Business and first class, or elite status passengers: 70 pounds per bag.
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Maximum dimensions per bag: 62 inches (length plus width plus height).
Fees for checking bags vary depending on your fare type and route. For example, on a domestic flight in economy:
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First bag: $35 in advance, $40 at the airport.
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Second bag: $45 in advance, $50 at the airport.
United provides a baggage calculator to help you determine the cost of checking your bags.
Except for basic economy flights, you can bring a full-size carry-on and a personal item for free.
United overweight baggage
United allows you to check more than two bags, extra heavy bags, or oversized bags for an additional fee. Prices vary based on your destination.
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Oversized bags: Up to 115 inches (length plus width plus height).
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Overweight bags: Up to 100 pounds.
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Musical instruments: Up to 165 pounds.
For domestic travel in the U.S., here are the additional luggage fees:
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Three or more bags: $150 per bag.
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Oversized bags: $200 extra per bag.
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Overweight bags: $100 extra per bag (51 to 70 pounds), $200 extra per bag (71 to 100 pounds).
Sports equipment and other specialty items can also be checked, each with its own requirements and fees.
Tips for avoiding checked bag fees on United
Destinations with complimentary checked bags
Most international destinations, including Europe, Asia, and Africa, offer one free checked bag even on economy tickets. Some destinations allow two bags weighing up to 70 pounds each for free.
Elite status passengers enjoy increased checked bag weight limits, with Premier 1K members allowed to check three bags at 70 pounds each without a fee.
Military personnel
Service members and their dependents are entitled to free checked bags, with generous weight and quantity allowances.
Those traveling on orders can check up to five bags at 100 pounds each, while personal travel allows up to three bags at 70 pounds each.
Family members on orders can bring up to two bags at 70 pounds each.