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United Airlines is one of the top airlines in the United States, and they offer a range of services to their passengers. One thing that many travelers are curious about is United Airlines baggage fees. If you’re planning a trip with United Airlines, it’s important to know how much you’ll be charged for your luggage. In this article, we’ll take a look at United Airlines baggage fees and how you can save money on your next flight.
How Much Does United Airlines Charge for Baggage?
United Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, with a fleet of over 800 aircraft and serving more than 340 destinations worldwide. When traveling with United Airlines, it’s important to know how much you’ll be charged for baggage, as these fees can add up quickly. In this article, we’ll break down United Airlines’ baggage fees and policies, so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Carry-On Baggage Fees
Carry-on baggage is allowed on United Airlines flights, as long as it meets certain size and weight restrictions. The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm), including handles and wheels. The maximum weight is 40 pounds (18 kg). If your carry-on bag exceeds these limits, it must be checked in and will be subject to checked baggage fees.
United Airlines does not charge a fee for one personal item, such as a purse, backpack, or laptop bag. However, if you want to bring a full-sized carry-on bag, you’ll need to pay a fee. The cost of a carry-on bag depends on your destination and the type of fare you’ve purchased. Basic Economy passengers are not allowed to bring a full-sized carry-on bag, unless they’re a MileagePlus Premier member or a primary cardmember of a qualifying MileagePlus credit card.
If you’ve purchased a United Economy or United Business fare, you can bring one full-sized carry-on bag and one personal item for free. For flights within the United States, the Caribbean, and Central America, the fee for a second carry-on bag is $50. For flights to/from Mexico and South America, the fee is $70. For all other international flights, the fee is $100.
Checked Baggage Fees
United Airlines’ checked baggage fees vary depending on your destination, fare class, and MileagePlus status. For domestic flights within the United States, the fee for the first checked bag is $35, and the fee for the second checked bag is $45. For flights to/from Canada, the Caribbean, and Central America, the fee for the first checked bag is $30, and the fee for the second checked bag is $40. For flights to/from Mexico, the fee for the first checked bag is $30, and the fee for the second checked bag is $55. For all other international flights, the fee for the first checked bag is $0-$200, depending on your destination, and the fee for the second checked bag is $100-$200.
If you’re a MileagePlus Premier member or a primary cardmember of a qualifying MileagePlus credit card, you may be eligible for free checked bags, depending on your status and the type of fare you’ve purchased. For example, Premier Gold members can receive one free checked bag on domestic flights, while Premier Platinum members can receive two free checked bags on domestic and international flights.
Excess Baggage Fees
If your baggage exceeds the size, weight, or quantity limits set by United Airlines, you’ll be charged an excess baggage fee. The fee for excess baggage varies depending on your destination and the type of fare you’ve purchased. For example, the fee for a third checked bag on a domestic flight is $150, while the fee for a third checked bag on an international flight can be up to $400.
Benefits of United Airlines’ Baggage Policies
While baggage fees can be a hassle, United Airlines’ baggage policies do offer some benefits. For example, United Airlines allows passengers to check bags up to 24 hours before their flight, which can save time and reduce stress at the airport. Additionally, United Airlines offers baggage delivery service, which allows passengers to have their bags delivered to their final destination instead of having to carry them around the airport.
United Airlines’ Baggage Policies vs. Other Airlines
When comparing United Airlines’ baggage policies to other airlines, it’s important to consider factors such as baggage size and weight limits, fees, and benefits. For example, Delta Air Lines allows passengers to bring one full-sized carry-on bag and one personal item for free, while American Airlines charges a fee for all carry-on bags. Southwest Airlines offers two free checked bags on all flights, while United Airlines only offers free checked bags to certain passengers.
Conclusion
In summary, United Airlines charges fees for carry-on and checked baggage, with prices varying depending on your destination, fare class, and MileagePlus status. If you’re planning to fly with United Airlines, be sure to check the baggage policies before you book your ticket, so you’re aware of any fees or restrictions. With proper planning, you can avoid excess baggage fees and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.
Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is United Airlines’ baggage policy?
- How can I pay for my checked bags on United Airlines?
- What happens if my baggage exceeds the weight or size limit on United Airlines?
- Can I bring a musical instrument on United Airlines?
- Are there any exemptions to United Airlines’ baggage fees?
- United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained
- What Is United Airlines Slogan?
- The Top 5 Destinations To Explore With United Airlines
- What Are United Regional Airlines?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is United Airlines’ baggage policy?
United Airlines’ baggage policy allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin, while the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. The airline also allows passengers to check up to two bags, with fees varying depending on the itinerary, class of service, and MileagePlus status.
For domestic flights within the United States, the first checked bag will cost $35, and the second checked bag will cost $45. For international flights, fees can range from $0 to $200 depending on the destination and class of service. MileagePlus Premier members and Star Alliance Gold members may be eligible for waived baggage fees.
How can I pay for my checked bags on United Airlines?
United Airlines accepts payment for checked bags at the airport ticket counter, self-service kiosks, or online during the check-in process. If you choose to pay for your bags at the airport, be aware that the fees may be higher than if you pay in advance online. You can also prepay for your checked bags online up to 24 hours before your flight.
To pay for your checked bags online, simply log in to your United Airlines account and navigate to the “Manage Reservations” section. From there, you can select the option to add baggage to your reservation and pay with a credit or debit card.
What happens if my baggage exceeds the weight or size limit on United Airlines?
If your baggage exceeds the weight or size limit on United Airlines, you may be subject to additional fees or restrictions. For checked bags, the weight limit is typically 50 pounds, and the size limit is 62 inches (length + width + height). Oversized or overweight bags may incur fees of up to $200 per bag.
For carry-on bags, the size limit is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. If your bag exceeds these dimensions, you will be required to check it and pay the applicable fees. Additionally, if your bag is too heavy to lift into the overhead bin, you may be required to check it at the gate and pay the applicable fees.
Can I bring a musical instrument on United Airlines?
United Airlines allows passengers to bring small musical instruments on board as carry-on items, as long as they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. If your instrument is too large to fit in the cabin, you may be required to purchase an additional seat for it or check it as baggage.
If you choose to check your musical instrument, be sure to pack it securely in a hard-shell case or a padded bag to prevent damage during transport. United Airlines will not be liable for damage to musical instruments that are not properly packed.
Are there any exemptions to United Airlines’ baggage fees?
Yes, there are several exemptions to United Airlines’ baggage fees. Active-duty U.S. military personnel, their spouses, and dependents are allowed to check up to three bags for free on domestic flights and up to five bags for free on international flights. Additionally, some United Airlines credit cards offer waived baggage fees as a perk for cardholders.
MileagePlus Premier members and Star Alliance Gold members are also eligible for waived baggage fees, depending on their membership level and itinerary. If you believe you may be eligible for an exemption to United Airlines’ baggage fees, be sure to check the airline’s website or contact customer service for more information.
United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained
In conclusion, United Airlines charges different fees for baggage based on the type of ticket purchased and the destination of the flight. It is important to carefully read and understand the baggage policy for your specific flight to avoid any unexpected fees or issues at the airport.
To save money on baggage fees, travelers can consider packing light or utilizing United’s MileagePlus program to earn free checked baggage allowances. Additionally, booking a higher fare class or using a United co-branded credit card can often include complimentary baggage allowances.
Ultimately, being prepared and informed about United Airlines’ baggage policy can help make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. So before you pack your bags and head to the airport, take the time to review United’s baggage policy and plan accordingly. Safe travels!
