Traveling can be fun and exciting, but it can also come with its fair share of expenses. One of these expenses is the cost of baggage on airlines. If you’re planning to fly with United Airlines and wondering how much they charge for baggage, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll break down the costs and policies related to baggage on United Airlines, so you can travel with peace of mind and avoid any surprises at the airport. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of baggage fees together!
How Much Does Baggage Cost on United Airlines?
Carry-On Baggage
Carry-on baggage is a type of luggage that passengers can bring with them onto the airplane. United Airlines allows one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. The personal item can be a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag, and it must fit under the seat in front of the passenger. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of the passenger.
If a passenger wants to bring an additional carry-on bag, they can purchase United’s Economy Plus or Economy fare, which includes one additional carry-on bag. Alternatively, passengers can purchase the United Basic Economy fare, which does not include any additional carry-on bags.
Carry-On Baggage Fees
- Economy Plus or Economy: 1 free personal item and 1 free carry-on bag
- Basic Economy: 1 free personal item only
- Additional carry-on bag: $25 for domestic flights and $30 for international flights
Checked Baggage
Checked baggage is luggage that passengers give to the airline to store in the cargo hold of the airplane. United Airlines charges fees for checked baggage, and the fees vary depending on the passenger’s destination, fare class, and frequent flyer status.
Checked Baggage Fees
Destination | Fare Class | 1st Bag | 2nd Bag | 3rd+ Bags |
---|---|---|---|---|
Domestic | Economy | $30 | $40 | $150 |
International | Economy | $0 (some exceptions) | $0 (some exceptions) | $200-$400 |
Domestic | Premium Cabin | $0 | $0 | $200 |
International | Premium Cabin | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Benefits of Paying for Checked Baggage
Paying for checked baggage has a few benefits. First, it allows passengers to bring more items with them on their trip. Second, it can save time at the airport since passengers do not have to carry their luggage through security and to the gate. Finally, it can be more comfortable for passengers since they do not have to carry heavy bags onto the airplane and store them in the overhead bin.
Checked Baggage vs. Carry-On Baggage
While carry-on baggage is free, it has some disadvantages compared to checked baggage. Carry-on baggage must be small enough to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, which can limit the size and amount of items passengers can bring. Additionally, passengers must carry their carry-on baggage through security and to the gate, which can be inconvenient and tiring. Finally, the overhead bin space can be limited, which can cause delays and frustration during boarding and deplaning.
Overall, United Airlines offers a variety of baggage options for passengers to choose from. Passengers should consider their travel needs and budget when deciding which type of baggage to purchase.
Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is United Airlines’ baggage policy?
- Are there any exceptions to baggage fees on United Airlines?
- What happens if my baggage exceeds United Airlines’ size and weight limits?
- Can I prepay for baggage on United Airlines?
- What if I change my flight after paying for baggage on United Airlines?
- United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained
- How Many Bags American Airlines?
- How To Fly Standby On American Airlines?
- Why Does My American Airlines Ticket Say Pending?
Frequently Asked Questions
Read on for answers to commonly asked questions about baggage fees on United Airlines.
What is United Airlines’ baggage policy?
United Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag for free. Checked baggage fees vary depending on the route and ticket type. For domestic flights, the first checked bag costs $35 when paid online or $40 at the airport. The second checked bag costs $45 when paid online or $50 at the airport. For international flights, fees start at $60 for the first checked bag and can go up to $100 or more for additional bags or overweight/oversized luggage. Passengers can save money by paying for checked bags online before their flight.
Are there any exceptions to baggage fees on United Airlines?
Yes, some passengers are exempt from baggage fees on United Airlines. MileagePlus Premier members, Star Alliance Gold members, United credit card holders, and active military personnel and their dependents are allowed additional free checked bags depending on their status. Passengers traveling in United Polaris First Class, United Polaris Business Class, and United First Class also receive additional free checked bags.
What happens if my baggage exceeds United Airlines’ size and weight limits?
If your baggage exceeds United Airlines’ size and weight limits, you will be charged additional fees. Oversized bags measuring between 63-115 inches (length + width + height) will cost $200 each. Overweight bags weighing between 51-100 pounds will cost $150 each. Bags that exceed both size and weight limits will incur both fees. It’s important to check your baggage’s dimensions and weight before arriving at the airport to avoid these charges.
Can I prepay for baggage on United Airlines?
Yes, passengers can prepay for baggage on United Airlines up to 24 hours before their flight. Prepaying for baggage can save you money on checked bag fees, as prices are often lower than if you pay at the airport. To prepay for baggage, simply log in to your United Airlines account and select the “Add Baggage” option under your upcoming flight.
What if I change my flight after paying for baggage on United Airlines?
If you change your flight after paying for baggage on United Airlines, your baggage fees will be transferred to your new flight as long as it’s within 24 hours of your original flight. If you change your flight after 24 hours, you may be subject to additional fees depending on your new flight’s baggage policy. It’s always a good idea to check the baggage policy for your new flight before making any changes.
United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained
In conclusion, United Airlines offers various baggage options for its passengers. The cost of baggage on United Airlines depends on several factors such as the route, the size and weight of the baggage, and the class of service. Passengers are advised to check the airline’s baggage policy before booking a flight to avoid any surprises or additional charges.
It is important to note that United Airlines offers several ways to save on baggage fees. Passengers can opt for a basic economy fare that includes only one personal item, or they can join the airline’s loyalty program to enjoy waived baggage fees. Additionally, passengers can pay for their baggage in advance online to save money on baggage fees.
Overall, understanding United Airlines’ baggage policy can help passengers avoid extra costs and make their travel experience more enjoyable. By planning ahead and choosing the right baggage option, passengers can ensure a hassle-free journey with United Airlines.