United Airlines Baggage Policy
Packing bags for a flight isn't the easiest task. It is always stressful. You can now relax because I'm going to talk about United Airlines' baggage policy and the cost you need to incur on your checked luggage. I'll go into detail regarding baggage policy and fee to ensure that your travel is convenient. Read all of the dos and don'ts listed in this blog, so, you never have to deal with overweight baggage again.
Different Baggage fees of United Airlines
United Airlines charges different types of baggage fees:
- Checked Baggage
- Carry-on Baggage
- Overweight Baggage
- Excessive Baggage
Your elite status, the United credit card you use to pay, your route, and the type of flight you bought may affect your baggage allowance. For example- Domestic and international flights have different baggage fees. Let's dive into the details now!
Check-in baggage policy and fee on United Airlines
Domestic Flights: Passengers with economy class tickets, need to pay $40 for the first checked bag and $50 for the second, and if you have paid it before then the first bag will cost you $35 and the second one will $45. Travelers with other fare classes are allowed for free baggage check-ups of up to two bags!
International Flights: If you are traveling to an international destination on an economy-class ticket, you will get one or two free checked bags. However, it is a destination-specific offer.
Note: Check United Airlines' official site to know the standard size and weight of the bag to avoid paying extra fees. The price may vary according to the destination.
Carry-on Baggage Policy and Fee
We often carry small bags or personal items along with us in the cabin. United Airlines has guidelines for this too. Like the majority of flights, United Airlines also permits a carry-on bag and one personal item. But keep in mind that carry-on luggage should fit in the overhead bin while personal belongings should fit beneath the seat.
Guidelines for Basic Economy Carry-on Baggage
If you are flying in a domestic basic economy, you are only allowed to bring one personal item; free carry-on is not applicable on this class fare. Moreover, there is a $25 gate handling cost to the checked bag fee if you bring a carry-on to the gate. However, in specific circumstances, you are allowed to have free carry-on even on Basic Economy.
- If you are flying to and from the U.S. across the Pacific, flights across the Atlantic, South America, or Canada.
- Members of the elite and their friends can have free carry-on bags.
- If you are making payments by using United credit cards that qualifies.
- Members of Gold Star Alliance can bring free carry-on baggage.
Carry-on Policy for a Passenger Traveling with an Infant
If you are traveling with an infant, United Airlines has an exclusive baggage policy for you too. Let's read this to have a comfortable journey with your toddler. Travelers are permitted to bring the following things on board for babies in addition to the usual carry-on allowance:
- One diaper bag
- A pump for breast milk
- An infant carrier or car seat that has been approved by the government.
Policy for Car Seat and Stroller Checks
- At the ticket office or gate, United provides complimentary check-in for one car seat and one non-collapsible stroller per child.
- Wagons and strollers that are large or non-collapsible must be checked at the ticket counter for free.
- Car seats are not allowed in United Polaris business class.
Overweight Baggage Policy and Fee for United Airlines
On United Airlines there is a limit on overweight baggage too. Your bags shouldn't exceed a certain weight according to destination and class fare.
If you are an Economy, Premium Economy, Non-Elite Passenger, or Star Alliance Gold elite and passenger who books a ticket with a United credit card then the highest limit for bag weight is 50 pounds. However, you need to pay:
- Up to $200 per bag- (For bags weighing from 51 to 70 pounds).
- Up to $400 per bag- (For bags weighing between 71 and 100).
Even with a basic economy ticket, United elite members, business, and first-class passengers have the right to get complimentary baggage checks up to 70 pounds. If you are like me, who is a heavy packer then a United elite membership could save you money.
Important Tip: As a Marriott Titanium Elite, you can check a bag up to 70 pounds and will automatically be matched to United Silver due to the United-Marriott alliance.
Excess Baggage Policy and Fee
You will be charged extra if the combined length, breadth, and height of your checked bag are more than 62 inches. The largest size bag that United Airlines allows is 115 inches. United Airlines will not accept bags that are more than this.
Tips to Save Money on Baggage Fees on United Airlines
- United Baggage Fee Calculator: To find out how much it will cost to bring a bag on your flight, visit United's website, and enter your destination, travel date, cabin class, credit card, and elite association into United Airlines' user-friendly baggage fee calculator. It will help you while packing your bags. However, this calculator will work only on domestic flights.
- Use Credit CardDo you want to avoid paying for checked bags at United? You can do it by using a United credit card that waives the bag fee is simple! The primary cardholder and one travel companion on the same reservation are covered by the waiver. Simply confirm that you are traveling on a United flight, include your MileagePlus number when making your reservation, and use a United credit card that is accepted to make the payment. Easy, isn't it?
Conclusion
United Airlines baggage fee will differ according to the destination you are flying and the fare class. The important thing you need to keep in mind that- Stick with the guidelines! Calculate the extra charge by using the baggage calculator and use a credit card to save money.
FAQ about United Airlines Baggage Policy & Fee
Do you have to pay for sporting goods on United Airlines?Answer: The type of sports equipment determines the fees. Generally speaking, skis, golf bags, fishing gear, hockey gear, and lacrosse equipment are all considered as one item. The starting price for sports items is $30 and it may reach up to $150.
Does United Airlines provide free checked baggage?Answer: United Airlines provides free checked baggage for Business and First class fare class across the destinations.
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