How To Avoid Baggage Fees On United Airlines?

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Chief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

Are you tired of paying extra fees just to bring your luggage on your United Airlines flight? We feel you! But don’t worry, there are ways to avoid baggage fees and save some money for your trip. Keep reading to learn some tips and tricks on how to travel light and avoid those pesky baggage fees on United Airlines.

How to Avoid Baggage Fees on United Airlines?

How to Avoid Baggage Fees on United Airlines?

United Airlines is a popular airline that provides passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience. However, one of the biggest concerns for travelers is the cost of baggage fees. These fees can add up quickly and significantly increase the cost of your trip. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid baggage fees on United Airlines. In this article, we will discuss ten different strategies that you can employ to save money on your next flight.

1. Know the Baggage Policy

The first step to avoiding baggage fees is to understand United Airlines’ baggage policy. United Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board for free. However, checked baggage fees apply to any additional bags. To avoid these fees, ensure that your luggage meets the size and weight requirements for carry-on bags. Additionally, consider packing light and only bringing necessities to avoid the need for additional baggage.

2. Book a United Airlines Credit Card

Another way to avoid baggage fees is to book a United Airlines credit card. These credit cards offer a variety of benefits, including free checked bags for the cardholder and a companion. Additionally, some cards offer priority boarding, lounge access, and other perks that can enhance your travel experience.

3. Use United Airlines MileagePlus Program

The United Airlines MileagePlus program is a loyalty program that rewards frequent flyers with a variety of benefits, including free checked bags. As a member of this program, you can earn miles for every flight you take with United Airlines. These miles can be redeemed for free flights, upgrades, and other rewards.

4. Upgrade to a Higher Fare Class

If you are willing to pay a bit more for your ticket, upgrading to a higher fare class can be a good way to avoid baggage fees. Some fare classes include free checked bags, so be sure to check the baggage policy for each fare class before booking your flight.

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5. Pack Light

Packing light is one of the easiest and most effective ways to avoid baggage fees. Before packing, make a list of everything you need for your trip. Then, go through the list and remove any items that are not necessary. Additionally, consider wearing your heaviest clothing and shoes on the plane to free up space in your luggage.

6. Ship Your Luggage

If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with oversized items, consider shipping your luggage ahead of time. This can be more expensive than checking your bags, but it can also save you money if you are traveling with a lot of items. Additionally, shipping your luggage can be more convenient and can help you avoid the hassle of waiting in line to check your bags.

7. Use a Travel Credit Card

Using a travel credit card can be another way to avoid baggage fees. Some travel credit cards offer benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and lounge access. However, be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions of the card before signing up.

8. Fly First Class

If you are willing to splurge on your flight, flying first class can be a good way to avoid baggage fees. Most first-class tickets include free checked bags, priority boarding, and other perks that can make your travel experience more enjoyable.

9. Look for Special Promotions

United Airlines often runs special promotions that offer free checked bags or other perks for travelers. Be sure to check the United Airlines website or sign up for their email newsletter to stay up-to-date on these promotions.

10. Consider Alternative Airlines

If you are unable to avoid baggage fees on United Airlines, consider looking for alternative airlines that offer more favorable baggage policies. Some airlines allow passengers to bring more carry-on bags or offer free checked bags for all passengers.

In conclusion, there are many ways to avoid baggage fees on United Airlines. By understanding the baggage policy, packing light, and utilizing travel credit cards and loyalty programs, you can save money on your next flight. Additionally, consider alternative airlines or upgrading your fare class to enjoy additional benefits and avoid baggage fees. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveling on United Airlines can be an exciting experience, but baggage fees can be quite a burden. Here are some commonly asked questions about how to avoid baggage fees on United Airlines.

How many bags can I carry for free on United Airlines?

United Airlines allows passengers to carry one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. However, the size and weight restrictions vary depending on the ticket type, so make sure to check the airline’s website for specific details. If you want to carry additional bags, you may have to pay extra baggage fees.

One way to avoid these fees is to pack light and only carry what is necessary. You can also try to fit all your belongings in a single carry-on bag to avoid checking in any baggage.

How can I avoid paying for checked baggage on United Airlines?

If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, you can avoid paying for checked baggage on United Airlines by becoming a MileagePlus Premier member. The airline offers a free checked baggage allowance to its members based on their membership level. Another way to avoid these fees is to book your ticket with a credit card that offers free checked baggage as a perk.

You can also try to pack light and carry all your belongings in a carry-on bag. If you need to carry more than one bag, consider shipping your luggage to your destination instead of carrying it with you.

What are the baggage fees for United Airlines?

The baggage fees for United Airlines vary depending on the destination, ticket type, and the number of bags you are carrying. The airline charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag on domestic flights. For international flights, the fees can range from $0 to $200 per bag depending on the destination and the class of service.

If you need to carry more bags than the allowed baggage allowance, you can expect to pay additional baggage fees. The fees can add up quickly, so it’s essential to pack light and only carry what is necessary.

Can I carry a musical instrument on United Airlines without paying extra fees?

United Airlines allows passengers to carry musical instruments on their flights, but there are some restrictions and fees. If your instrument is small enough to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, you can carry it with you for free. However, if your instrument is larger than the allowed size, you may have to purchase an additional seat or pay a checked baggage fee.

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It’s essential to notify the airline in advance if you are carrying a musical instrument to avoid any confusion or last-minute fees. You can also consider purchasing insurance for your instrument to protect it from damage or loss during the flight.

Can I avoid paying for baggage fees by upgrading my ticket on United Airlines?

United Airlines offers various ticket types, including Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First class. Each ticket type comes with its own baggage allowances and fees. If you upgrade your ticket to a higher class, you may be entitled to a higher baggage allowance or even free checked baggage.

However, upgrading your ticket is not always a cost-effective solution, especially if you are only doing it to avoid baggage fees. It’s essential to compare the cost of upgrading your ticket to the cost of paying for baggage fees to determine which option is more cost-effective for you.

United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, avoiding baggage fees on United Airlines is not as difficult as it may seem. By following a few simple tips, travelers can save money and avoid the hassle of paying extra fees. First, pack light and only bring what is necessary for your trip. Second, take advantage of United’s carry-on policy and pack efficiently. Finally, consider signing up for United’s frequent flyer program to earn free checked bags. By implementing these strategies, travelers can enjoy a stress-free and cost-effective experience on United Airlines.

Remember, planning ahead is key when it comes to avoiding baggage fees. By doing a little research and understanding United’s baggage policy, you can avoid any surprises at the airport. With these tips in mind, you can focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about extra fees or restrictions.

Overall, saving money on baggage fees can make a big difference in your travel budget. By following these simple steps, you can keep more money in your pocket and make the most of your travel experience. So next time you fly with United Airlines, remember these tips and enjoy a smoother, more affordable trip.

adminChief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

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