Traveling by air often means packing carefully, especially when it comes to baggage. United Airlines, one of the largest carriers in the United States, offers you various baggage options, but exceeding the standard allowance comes with additional costs. If you are flying domestically or internationally, knowing the extra baggage charges on United Airlines can save you from stress and last-minute surprises at the airport. Meanwhile, you can call our agents to understand the United Airlines economy baggage fees and get the best deals.
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What is the Checked Baggage Allowance on United Airlines?
United Airlines’ standard baggage policy varies depending on your ticket type, route, and frequent flyer status. Once a bag exceeds these limits, either in size, weight, or number, you will need to pay extra baggage charges on United Airlines.
- Carry-On Baggage: United enables one carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge, provided you meet the size and weight restrictions.
- Checked Baggage: If you are traveling on domestic flights, pay for checked bags unless you hold elite status, purchase a premium ticket, or are part of the airline’s credit card program.
- Standard Checked Bag Size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
- Standard Checked Bag Weight: 50 lbs for economy passengers; 70 lbs for premium cabin travelers.
How do Routes Affect Baggage Charges?
The United Airlines extra baggage fees are not fixed; they vary depending on your origin and destination. Moreover, you can call our agents to know the cost of how much United Airlines charges for checked bags.
- Domestic U.S. Flights: Extra bag fees are usually lower compared to long-haul international routes.
- Transatlantic Flights (U.S. to Europe): Fees for extra bags can be higher, with third bags often costing more than $200.
- Transpacific Flights (U.S. to Asia/Australia): Extra baggage charges can be even steeper, especially for overweight or oversized luggage.
It is always best to check United’s official baggage calculator on the website before your trip for the most accurate fees.
Special Baggage on United Airlines
- Sports Equipment: United allows items like skis, golf clubs, or surfboards, but charges oversized fees if they exceed standard dimensions.
- Musical Instruments: You can carry on board, depending on size. Extra fees apply if oversized.
- Infant and Mobility Items: Strollers, car seats, and wheelchairs are generally exempt from extra baggage fees.
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How Much are the Extra Baggage Charges on United Airlines?
United Airlines divides extra baggage charges into three main categories:
Additional Bags
If you are traveling with more bags than your allowance, you will pay an additional fee per bag.
- On most domestic flights, the first checked bag costs around $35, the second bag costs $45, and each additional bag can range from $150 to $200.
- On international flights, charges are based on destination, with third bags costing significantly more.
Overweight Baggage
If your bag exceeds the standard weight allowance, United imposes additional fees:
- 23–32 kg: $100–$200 per bag.
- 33–45 kg: $400 per bag.
- Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted.
Oversized Baggage
If your checked luggage is larger than the standard 62 linear inches but under 115 inches:
- Expect to pay $200–$400 per oversized bag, depending on your route.
- Bags larger than 115 linear inches will not be accepted.
How to Avoid Extra Baggage Charges on United?
There are some ways through which you can minimize or avoid extra baggage charges when flying United Airlines.
Pack Compactly: Use compression bags to maximize space without adding weight.
Weigh Bags at Home: You must buy a portable luggage scale that will prevent you from surprises at the airport.
Upgrade Your Ticket: Book your tickets in premium cabins, which include more free checked bags.
Join the MileagePlus Loyalty Program: Elite members receive complimentary baggage allowances.
Use a United Credit Card: Many United co-branded credit cards provide free checked bags for the cardholder and companions.
Ship Extra Items: Sometimes, shipping excess baggage via courier or cargo is cheaper than paying airline fees.
How to Add Extra Baggage on United Airlines?
United Airlines allows you to purchase your baggage through Manage My Booking, by calling the helpline, or at the airport counter during boarding.
Add Your Baggage from the Manage Booking
- You can visit the United Airlines website.
- Then, go to the Manage Booking tool.
- Moreover, you must enter all the details to log in, then select “Add a Baggage” from the homepage.
- The following window will display the excess baggage allowance according to your fare eligibility.
- You need to mention the number of bags along with your weight and size.
Buy Baggage on a Phone Call
- To add your baggage offline, you can contact our agents at the toll-free number after the booking.
- There, you can ask our agent to add your baggage to the booking after connecting.
- Then, you need to provide your booking details to the agent, along with any additional bags.
- After you confirm your details, our agent will add baggage to your booking.
- Also, you must pay the excess baggage charges by sharing the card details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does United Airlines charge for an extra checked bag?
On most domestic routes, you have to pay for a third bag, depending on your class type. On international routes, the fee can be higher depending on your destination.
What happens if my bag is overweight on United Airlines?
If your bag weighs more than the allowance weight, you will have to pay a charge. Thus, if your bags are over 100 lbs, they are not accepted.
Can I prepay for extra baggage on United Airlines?
United allows you to prepay for checked baggage online when booking. However, it helps you save money compared to paying at the airport.
Does United Airlines charge for sports equipment?
Sports equipment, including skis, golf bags, or surfboards, may be accepted as checked baggage. If they exceed the standard size or weight limits, oversize or overweight fees will apply.
Are baggage fees refundable if I cancel my United Airlines flight?
Prepaid baggage fees are non-refundable, unless you cancel within the 24-hour flexible booking window or the airline makes a schedule change.
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