Does United Airlines Have Free Checked Bags?

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Chief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

Flying can be a stressful experience, and the last thing you want is to be hit with unexpected fees when checking your luggage. So, does United Airlines have free checked bags? This is a common question among travelers, and we’re here to provide you with the answer.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at United Airlines’ baggage policy and help you understand what you can expect when it comes to checked luggage. From the number of bags you can check for free to the fees you can expect to pay for additional bags, we’ll cover it all. So, let’s dive in and find out if United Airlines is the right choice for your next trip.

Does United Airlines Have Free Checked Bags?

Does United Airlines Have Free Checked Bags?

United Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the world. Many people choose this airline for their domestic and international travel needs. One question that often arises for travelers is whether United Airlines provides free checked bags. In this article, we will explore this question in detail.

United Airlines Checked Baggage Policy

United Airlines allows all passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. However, the airline charges for checked baggage. The fee for the first checked bag is $30, and the second checked bag is $40. Additional bags cost $150 each.

If you are traveling with a Basic Economy ticket, you will not be allowed to bring a full-sized carry-on bag on board the plane. Instead, you will only be allowed to bring a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. If you want to bring a full-sized carry-on bag, you will need to pay an additional fee.

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Exceptions to the Checked Baggage Fee

There are some exceptions to the checked baggage fee on United Airlines. If you are a MileagePlus Premier member or traveling in a premium cabin, you may be allowed to check bags for free. Additionally, United Airlines offers free checked bags to active duty military personnel and their dependents.

If you are traveling with sporting equipment or musical instruments, you may be allowed to check these items for free or at a reduced rate. It is important to check United Airlines’ baggage policy before you travel to ensure that you are aware of any fees and restrictions.

Benefits of Checked Baggage

While checked baggage does come with a fee, there are some benefits to checking your bags. First, you will not have to lug heavy bags through the airport or worry about finding overhead bin space on the plane. Additionally, you may be able to pack more items in your checked bags, which can be helpful for longer trips.

United Airlines also offers a baggage delivery service for an additional fee. With this service, your bags will be delivered directly to your hotel or other destination, allowing you to bypass baggage claim and get to your destination more quickly.

Checked Baggage vs. Carry-On Bags

When deciding whether to check your bags or bring them on board as carry-on items, there are a few things to consider. First, if you have a lot of items or heavy bags, checking your bags may be more convenient. Additionally, if you are traveling with liquids or other items that are not allowed in carry-on bags, you will need to check these items.

On the other hand, bringing your bags on board as carry-on items can be more convenient if you want to avoid the checked baggage fee or if you want to ensure that your bags arrive at your destination with you. Additionally, if you have a short layover, it may be easier to bring your bags on board rather than checking them and risking a delay in baggage delivery.

United Airlines Baggage Allowance

In addition to the checked baggage fee, United Airlines has specific size and weight restrictions for all bags. Checked bags must not exceed 62 inches in total dimensions (length + width + height) and 50 pounds in weight. Oversized or overweight bags will incur additional fees.

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Carry-on bags must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches in size and must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin. Personal items must not exceed 17 x 10 x 9 inches in size and must fit under the seat in front of you.

How to Save on Baggage Fees

If you want to save on baggage fees when traveling with United Airlines, there are a few things you can do. First, try to pack light and only bring the essentials. Additionally, consider shipping items ahead of time or using a baggage delivery service.

If you are a MileagePlus Premier member, consider using your status to waive the baggage fee. Finally, consider applying for a United Airlines credit card, which may offer free checked bags as a perk.

Conclusion

In conclusion, United Airlines charges a fee for checked baggage, but there are exceptions to this fee for certain passengers and items. When deciding whether to check your bags or bring them on board as carry-on items, consider the convenience and cost of each option. By following United Airlines’ baggage policy and taking advantage of any available discounts, you can ensure that your travel experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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 vary depending on the route and class of service. Passengers can check up to 10 bags per flight, with additional fees applied for bags beyond this limit.

United Airlines also offers baggage subscription plans, where passengers can pay a flat fee to check bags on multiple flights. These plans can be a cost-effective option for frequent travelers.

What is the cost of checking a bag on United Airlines?

The cost of checking a bag on United Airlines depends on the route and class of service. For domestic flights, the first checked bag starts at $35, with the second bag starting at $45. For international flights, fees can range from $0 to $200 depending on the destination and class of service.

Passengers can save on baggage fees by purchasing a United Airlines credit card or by signing up for the airline’s MileagePlus loyalty program.

Are there any exceptions to United Airlines’ baggage fees?

Yes, there are exceptions to United Airlines’ baggage fees. Active duty military personnel and their dependents are allowed to check up to five bags for free on United Airlines flights. Passengers with elite status in United’s MileagePlus program may also be exempt from baggage fees.

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In addition, some credit card holders and passengers traveling on certain international routes may be eligible for waived or reduced baggage fees.

What items are prohibited in checked baggage on United Airlines?

United Airlines prohibits a number of items in checked baggage, including explosives, flammable items, and certain types of batteries. Other prohibited items include firearms, ammunition, and certain types of chemicals.

Passengers should review United Airlines’ list of prohibited items before packing their checked baggage to avoid any issues at the airport.

What should I do if my baggage is lost or damaged on a United Airlines flight?

If your baggage is lost or damaged on a United Airlines flight, you should report the issue to a United Airlines representative as soon as possible. United Airlines has a baggage tracking system that can help locate lost baggage and provide updates on its status.

If your baggage is damaged, United Airlines may provide a repair or replacement, depending on the extent of the damage. Passengers should keep receipts for any items that were damaged or lost in their baggage in order to file a claim with the airline.

United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, United Airlines does not offer free checked bags for all their flights. The airline has introduced different fare classes that come with varying baggage allowances. Passengers traveling on Economy Basic fares are not entitled to any free checked bags, while those on Economy Plus and Economy fares are allowed to check one bag for free. The airline’s Premier members and Star Alliance Gold members are entitled to check two bags for free.

It is important for passengers to check their fare class and baggage allowances before traveling with United Airlines. This will help them avoid unexpected fees and save on costs. Additionally, passengers can take advantage of the airline’s MileagePlus program to earn rewards and free baggage allowances.

Despite the baggage fees, United Airlines offers reliable and efficient travel services to passengers all over the world. With a fleet of modern aircraft and a commitment to customer satisfaction, United Airlines is a great choice for both business and leisure travelers. So, pack your bags accordingly and enjoy your flight with United Airlines!

adminChief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

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