How Much Does United Airlines Charge For A Checked Bag?

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Chief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

United Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the United States, with a wide range of destinations and excellent customer service. But, when it comes to baggage fees, many travelers are left wondering – how much does United Airlines charge for a checked bag? Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, understanding baggage fees can help you save money and avoid any surprises at the airport. In this article, we’ll break down United Airlines’ checked bag fees, explain how to avoid them, and provide tips for packing efficiently.

How Much Does United Airlines Charge for a Checked Bag?

How Much Does United Airlines Charge for a Checked Bag?

United Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, and it’s no surprise that they offer a wide range of services to their customers. One of the most common questions that travelers ask is how much United Airlines charges for a checked bag. The answer, however, is not as straightforward as it may seem. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at United Airlines’ baggage policy and pricing.

United Airlines Checked Baggage Policy

United Airlines has a specific baggage policy that applies to all of its flights. The airline allows passengers to check up to two bags per person, with some exceptions for certain types of fares or membership programs. The maximum weight for each bag is 50 pounds (23 kg) and the maximum size is 62 linear inches (158 cm).

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Baggage Fees for Domestic Flights

For domestic flights within the United States, United Airlines charges a fee for each checked bag. The first checked bag costs $30, while the second checked bag costs $40. For overweight or oversized bags, United Airlines charges an additional fee of $150 per bag.

Baggage Fees for International Flights

For international flights, United Airlines’ baggage fees vary depending on the destination and the type of fare. In general, the first checked bag is free for most international flights, while the second checked bag costs $100. For flights to certain destinations, such as Europe or Asia, the second checked bag may cost even more.

Benefits of Checked Baggage on United Airlines

While checked baggage on United Airlines may come with a fee, there are several benefits that make it a worthwhile investment. For one, checked bags allow travelers to pack more items and avoid the hassle of carrying heavy or bulky items through security and onto the plane. Checked bags also provide peace of mind, as travelers can be assured that their belongings will arrive safely at their destination.

Benefits of Prepaying for Checked Baggage

United Airlines offers the option to prepay for checked baggage online, which can save travelers time and money. By prepaying, travelers can avoid the hassle of paying for baggage fees at the airport and may even receive a discount on the total cost of their baggage. Prepaying also allows travelers to manage their baggage more efficiently, as they can track their bags and receive updates throughout their journey.

United Airlines Checked Baggage vs. Other Airlines

When it comes to checked baggage fees, United Airlines is comparable to many other major airlines. For example, American Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag on domestic flights, while Delta Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag. However, some airlines, such as Southwest Airlines, offer free checked bags as part of their standard fare.

United Airlines’ Baggage Fee Comparison

To help put United Airlines’ baggage fees into perspective, we’ve created a comparison table with other major airlines’ baggage fees:

Airline 1st Bag 2nd Bag
United Airlines $30 $40
American Airlines $30 $40
Delta Airlines $30 $40
Southwest Airlines Free Free
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Conclusion

In conclusion, United Airlines charges a fee for checked baggage on both domestic and international flights. The fees vary depending on the destination and the type of fare, but travelers can expect to pay $30-40 for the first checked bag and $100 or more for the second checked bag. Despite the fees, checked baggage on United Airlines provides several benefits, including the ability to pack more items and avoid the hassle of carrying heavy bags through security and onto the plane. By prepaying for checked baggage online, travelers can save time and money and manage their baggage more efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about United Airlines baggage fees.

What is United Airlines’ baggage policy?

United Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. Checked bags will incur a fee, with prices varying depending on the flight route and the type of fare. The airline’s baggage policy also has weight and size restrictions, so be sure to check the guidelines before you pack.

If you need to bring additional bags, you can purchase additional baggage allowances online or at the airport. United Airlines also offers discounts for prepaying for baggage online before your flight.

How much does United Airlines charge for a second checked bag?

United Airlines charges $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second checked bag on domestic flights in the United States. For international flights, prices may vary depending on the destination, but the second checked bag fee is typically around $100-$200.

If you are a MileagePlus Premier member or a Star Alliance Gold member, you may be eligible for exemptions or discounts on checked baggage fees. Additionally, certain fare classes may also include a free checked bag allowance.

What is the maximum weight and size for checked luggage on United Airlines?

The maximum weight for a checked bag on United Airlines is 50 pounds (23 kg) for economy class passengers and 70 pounds (32 kg) for business and first class passengers. The maximum size for a checked bag is 62 linear inches (158 cm), which is calculated by adding the length, width, and height of the bag.

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If your bag exceeds these limits, you will incur additional fees. Oversized and overweight bags can cost up to $200 per bag on domestic flights and up to $400 per bag on international flights.

Are there any exemptions for United Airlines baggage fees?

Yes, there are several exemptions for United Airlines baggage fees. MileagePlus Premier members and Star Alliance Gold members are eligible for free checked bags, depending on their status level. Additionally, certain fare classes may include a free checked bag allowance.

Active military personnel and their dependents are also exempt from checked baggage fees on United Airlines. However, these exemptions may vary depending on the flight route and destination.

Can I prepay for baggage on United Airlines?

Yes, you can prepay for baggage on United Airlines. The airline offers a discount for prepaying for baggage online before your flight. This can save you money compared to purchasing additional baggage allowances at the airport.

To prepay for baggage, you can log in to your United Airlines account on their website and add the additional baggage allowance to your booking. You can also prepay for baggage by calling the airline’s customer service hotline or at the airport check-in counter.

United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, United Airlines is a popular airline that operates both domestically and internationally. While the airline does offer a number of perks and benefits to its customers, there are also fees associated with certain services, such as checked bags.

If you’re planning on checking a bag with United Airlines, it’s important to understand the fees involved. Baggage fees vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and weight of the bag, as well as your destination.

Before you book your flight with United Airlines, make sure to review the airline’s baggage policy to ensure that you’re aware of any fees that may apply. By doing so, you can avoid any surprises at the airport and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.

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