Does United Airlines Have Free Baggage?

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Chief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

United Airlines is one of the leading airlines in the world, serving millions of passengers every year. If you’re planning on flying with United Airlines, you may be wondering if they offer free baggage.

The good news is that United Airlines does offer free baggage allowance for certain types of passengers and flights. However, there are also restrictions and fees for other passengers and baggage types. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at United Airlines’ baggage policies and help you understand what you can expect when flying with this airline.

Does United Airlines Have Free Baggage?

Does United Airlines Have Free Baggage?

If you’re planning a trip with United Airlines, you might be wondering whether or not they offer free baggage. The answer is yes and no, as United Airlines has different baggage policies depending on your destination, class of travel, and frequent flyer status. In this article, we’ll break down United Airlines’ baggage policies to help you understand what to expect.

Carry-On Baggage

When flying with United Airlines, every passenger is allowed to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and can include items such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and should not exceed the following dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).

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If you’re traveling with basic economy fare, you’ll only be allowed to bring a personal item on board, and you’ll have to pay for any additional bags. However, if you’re flying with a higher fare class or have elite status with United’s MileagePlus program, you’ll be allowed to bring a full-size carry-on bag as well.

Checked Baggage

United Airlines offers two types of checked baggage: standard checked baggage and oversized or overweight baggage. The standard checked baggage allowance depends on your fare class, destination, and frequent flyer status. In general, most passengers are allowed to check one or two bags for free, with a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg) and a maximum linear dimension of 62 inches (158 cm).

If you’re traveling with oversized or overweight baggage, you’ll have to pay an additional fee. United Airlines defines oversized bags as those with a linear dimension between 63 and 115 inches (160-292 cm), while overweight bags are those weighing between 51 and 100 pounds (23-45 kg). Fees for oversized or overweight baggage vary depending on your destination, so be sure to check United’s website for more information.

Bags for Active Military Personnel

United Airlines offers special baggage allowances for active military personnel traveling on official orders. In addition to their standard checked baggage allowance, active military personnel are allowed to check up to five bags for free, with a maximum weight of 70 pounds (32 kg) each. If you’re an active military member, be sure to bring your military ID and official orders to qualify for this benefit.

Bags for MileagePlus Premier Members

If you’re a member of United’s MileagePlus Premier program, you’ll have access to additional baggage benefits depending on your status level. Premier Silver members are allowed to check one additional bag for free, while Premier Gold members can check two additional bags for free. Premier Platinum and 1K members can check three additional bags for free.

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In addition to these benefits, Premier members also have access to priority baggage handling and may be eligible for waived fees for oversize or overweight baggage.

Benefits of Bringing Your Own Luggage

While it can be tempting to travel without any checked baggage to save money, there are several benefits to bringing your own luggage. First, you’ll be able to pack more items and have more control over what you bring. Second, you won’t have to worry about your luggage getting lost or delayed, which can be a major inconvenience when traveling. Finally, having your own luggage can make navigating airports and getting to your destination easier and more comfortable.

Conclusion

In summary, United Airlines does offer free baggage allowances for carry-on and checked baggage, but the specific policies vary depending on your fare class, destination, and frequent flyer status. If you’re planning a trip with United Airlines, be sure to check their website for up-to-date baggage policies and fees. And remember, bringing your own luggage can offer several benefits and make your travel experience more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is United Airlines’ baggage policy?

United Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. Checked baggage fees depend on the route, fare class, and frequent flyer status. The maximum weight and size for checked bags are 50 lbs (23 kg) and 62 linear inches (157 cm), respectively. Additional baggage fees may apply for overweight and oversized bags.

Does United Airlines offer free checked baggage?

United Airlines does not offer free checked baggage for all passengers. The number of free checked bags and the weight limit depends on the fare class, route, and frequent flyer status. For example, passengers in Economy Class on domestic flights are charged $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag, while passengers in Business Class on international flights can check up to two bags for free.

What is United Airlines’ carry-on baggage policy?

United Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. The maximum size for carry-on bags is 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including wheels and handles. The personal item should fit under the seat in front of you and should not exceed 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm).

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What are the fees for overweight and oversized baggage on United Airlines?

United Airlines charges an extra fee for bags that exceed the weight and size limits. For bags weighing between 51-70 lbs (23-32 kg), passengers will be charged $100 on domestic flights and $200 on international flights. For bags measuring between 63-115 linear inches (158-292 cm), passengers will be charged $200 on domestic flights and $400 on international flights.

How can I avoid paying baggage fees on United Airlines?

Passengers can avoid paying baggage fees on United Airlines by traveling with only a carry-on bag and a personal item that fit within the size limits. Another way to avoid baggage fees is to have a United Airlines credit card, which offers free checked bags for the cardholder and one companion on the same reservation. Frequent flyers can also earn free checked bags based on their elite status.

United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, United Airlines does offer free baggage allowances for certain passengers. If you are a MileagePlus Premier member or traveling in a premium cabin, you can enjoy free checked baggage. Additionally, active-duty military personnel and their dependents, as well as customers with certain credit cards, are also eligible for free baggage.

However, if you are not in one of these categories, there may be fees associated with checked baggage. It is important to check United Airlines’ baggage policies before you fly to avoid any unexpected charges.

Overall, United Airlines strives to provide a variety of options for its passengers, including free baggage allowances for certain groups. By understanding their policies and taking advantage of these offers, you can make your travel experience with United Airlines even more enjoyable.

adminChief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

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