Traveling soon with United Airlines? You’ll want to stay ahead of the game by understanding their baggage policy. It’s not just about how many bags you can carry, but also the size, weight, and the fees involved.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-timer, navigating the ins and outs of United Airlines’ baggage policy can be a bit tricky. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide aims to break down the policy in a simple, easy-to-understand manner.
From carry-on bags to checked luggage, we’ll walk you through the allowances and potential fees you might encounter. So sit tight, and let’s jump into the world of United Airlines’ baggage rules.
United Airlines Baggage Policy: Allowance Fees Guide
Understanding airline baggage rules can certainly save you from last-minute hassles and unexpected fees during your travel. It’s particularly crucial when you’re planning to fly with United Airlines, given their particular set of guidelines about baggage allowances and related charges. Worry not, though – figuring out the specifics doesn’t have to be daunting.
Firstly, carry-on baggage. United Airlines allow a single carry-on bag and one personal item at no extra charge. That’s a laptop bag, a purse, or a small backpack. For the actual carry-on, dimensions must not exceed 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches. This includes handles and wheels. Get over these parameters and you’ll find yourself face-to-face with a carry-on bag fee that ranges from $25 to $125, depending on the oversize extent and the cabin class.
As for checked baggage, the rules alter based on the route and the ticket you’ve purchased. A general guide presents you with an allowance of two pieces of luggage with a maximum dimension of 62 inches, including wheels and handles, and a max weight of 50 pounds each. Just remember – being generous with your packing could introduce you to baggage fees ranging from $30 to $150.
But what about additional bags? Well, that’s where the policy gets more complex. United Airlines imposes additional fees for excess baggage, so it’s best to pre-inform the airline about your luggage needs to avoid surprises. But, for the third checked bag, the fee starts at $150. For any bag beyond that, you’re looking at something close to $200 for each.
To dodge confusion, ensure you use a luggage scale to stay within weight limits. For dimension compliance, baggage sizers at every United Airlines checkpoint will be your best bet. Keep these rules in mind and you’re all set to sidestep those unwelcome baggage fees!
This guide provides only the fundamentals. For more detailed information about United Airlines’ baggage policy like sports equipment, military baggage allowances, or restrictions on certain items, you better explore their official website for in-depth explanations, or check-in with their helpdesk for any specific queries.
Understanding United Airlines’ Baggage Policy
Getting a handle on the baggage policy of any airline can seem daunting at first, with a range of guidelines and stipulations to keep in mind. United Airlines’ baggage policy is no different, balancing different weights, sizes, and quantity limits. Learning these rules can help you pack efficiently and avoid fees that might otherwise catch you by surprise.
First and foremost, understand that United Airlines allows a single carry-on bag plus one personal item, like a backpack or purse, at no additional cost. But, these items must not exceed specific dimensions. The maximum dimensions of a carry-on bag are 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches. That’s including handles and wheels and must fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat in front of you. The personal item’s maximum dimensions are 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches.
Checked bags come with a different set of rules. The maximum dimensions for a single piece of checked luggage, including handles and wheels, are 62 linear inches. Not to exceed a max weight of 50 lbs for Economy Class passengers. Additional fees apply for any baggage that surpasses these limits.
Here’s a breakdown of the airline’s standard checked baggage fees:
| 1st Bag | 2nd Bag | Additional Bags |
|---|---|---|
| $30 | $40 | $150 each |
Remember, these figures are subject to change. Always check the airline’s official website or contact their help desk for the most current information.
Taking the time to understand United Airlines’ baggage policy and organizing your luggage accordingly can save both time and money. Consider investing in a luggage scale — it’s a practical tool that helps ensure your bags meet weight requirements. United Airlines also has baggage sizers located at their checkpoints, making it convenient to quickly check if your carry-ons meet the airline’s size restrictions. You’re well on your way to becoming a savvy traveler with United Airlines.
Types of Bags and their Allowances
When you travel with United Airlines, it’s crucial to know about different types of bags and their respective allowances. Let’s investigate into details.
Carry-On Bags
United Airlines allows one carry-on bag as part of your ticket. This bag must not exceed the dimensions of 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches. Now, those are the external dimensions, including any handles or wheels. Keeping your bag within these dimensions ensures an easy passage through the airport and a hassle-free boarding process. Baggage sizers at checkpoints will be your best friend, helping you confirm your luggage fits the right bill.
Personal Items
Plus to your carry-on bag, you can also bring along one personal item. This could be a purse, a small backpack or laptop bag. The maximum size allowed for personal items is 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches. Remember, your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.
Checked Bags
We understand that sometimes, carry-on bags aren’t enough. That’s where checked bags come in handy. Your first two checked bags should adhere to 62 linear inches and not weigh more than 50lbs. Do bear in mind, fees apply for these checked bags, unless when exempt due to certain international travel routes or MileagePlus status.
In the tale of baggage allowances and fees, a luggage scale could be your protagonist, keeping you well-informed about your luggage weight, and saving you from a nasty surprise at the airport! Now, wouldn’t that be great?
| Bag Type | Dimensions | Maximum Weight | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-On | 9″ x 14″ x 22″ | – | Included |
| Personal Item | 9″ x 10″ x 17″ | – | Included |
| Checked Bag | up to 62 linear inches | 50lbs | Appliable |
In terms of understanding United Airlines’ baggage policy thoroughly, the devil is in the details. So make sure to visit their official website or reach out to their helpdesk for more specific information around your journey.
Carry-on Baggage Policies and Restrictions
Carry-on bags are an indispensable part of your journeys, aren’t they? Flying with United Airlines, one key point to keep in mind is the dimension limits for carry-on bags. Your bag should not exceed 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches. This measurement includes handles and wheels.
United Airlines also allows you to bring a personal item besides your carry-on. This could be a laptop bag, a small backpack, or a purse. Just ensure that its dimensions do not exceed 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches.
There’s more! While travelling with United Airlines, if you exceed these dimensions, then you may need to check in your bag. Yes, it’s that simple!
It’s important to remember that the carry-on bag and personal item are included in all fare tickets. So, you won’t have any last-minute surprises in terms of extra fees at the boarding gate.
Stow your larger carry-on bag in the overhead bin and your smaller personal item under the seat in front of you to maintain the flow of the boarding process and ensure a comfortable flight for all passengers.
Also note that the overhead bin space is shared among passengers and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Seize the opportunity to make the best use of your space by following the carry-on limit rule.
Overhead bins can fill quickly, especially on flights that are near or at capacity. Consider United’s group boarding priority. Purchase Early Bird Check-In, and you’ll have the space you need.
Remember, these are general guidelines. Different aircraft may have different carry-on bag behavior. Don’t forget to verify the carry-on bag policy specific to the aircraft you’ll be flying on.
United Airlines is committed to providing clear, comprehensive information to its passengers to help them plan their trips more efficiently. We encourage you to check the United Airlines website or give their friendly customer service a call to get accurate, updated information about the most suitable carry-on bag for your travel needs. So, ready to pack that carry-on?
Checked Luggage: Weight and Size Limits
When it comes to checked luggage, United Airlines has specific policies in place that focus on weight and size limits. Knowing these guidelines can save you from unexpected surprises in the form of additional charges at the airport. So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what you need to know.
Each passenger is allowed to check in two bags as standard. To make sure you stay within the limits, remember to keep the weight for each bag under 50 lbs (23 kg) for Economy class passengers and 70 lbs (32 kg) for Business, First, and Polaris class.
As for the dimensions, your luggage should not exceed 62 linear inches (158 cm) when you total the length, width, and height. Items like suitcases, duffel bags, and golf bags all apply to these rules. But, if you intend to travel with bulky items such as musical instruments or sports equipment, it’s advisable to check United’s specific guidelines on these beforehand.
Let’s take a look at these details in a tabular form:
| Class | Bag Weight Limit | Bag Size Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
| Business/First/Polaris | 70 lbs (32 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
Remember, it’s essential to abide by these restrictions; else, you may be subjected to “overweight” and “oversize” fees. Consider investing in a quality luggage scale to ensure your baggage falls within the limits. Plus, plan your packing wisely, keeping in mind the number of items you have and the weight they collectively add up to.
Of course, there are exceptions to these rules. If you are a MileagePlus Premier member, Star Alliance Gold member, or a primary card member using United’s MileagePlus credit card, you can enjoy additional baggage allowance. It’s a good idea to consistently check the United Airlines website to keep updated with any new changes to these policies. Following these guidelines not only saves you from unexpected fees but also makes your travel experience with United Airlines a smooth sailing one.
Additional Fees for Excess Baggage
In your packing process, you might find yourself tempted to overpack. But, a crucial tip for experienced flyers is being aware of and avoiding excess baggage charges. United Airlines implements extra fees if your luggage exceeds the specified weight and size limits or if you need to check in additional bags.
Overweight and oversize bags, those that surpass the dimensions of 62 linear inches or the weight of 50 lbs for Economy class and 70 lbs for Business, First, and Polaris class, come with associated costs. The exact fee can vary depending on the destination but generally, for bags weighing between 51-70 lbs, you’ll typically be looking at an additional charge of $100. Bags weighing between 71-100 lbs could potentially set you back $200. If your bag crosses the dimension limit of 62 inches but stays within 115 inches, anticipate a $200 fee. Please note, these are just general guidelines and actual costs may vary.
| Bag Weight (lbs) | Potential Additional Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| 51-70 | $100 |
| 71-100 | $200 |
| Bag Size (Linear Inches) | Potential Additional Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| 63-115 | $200 |
If you intend on checking in more bags than your ticket’s baggage allowance, the excess bag rates kick in. Extra bag costs, depending on your destination, generally range from $30 for the first extra bag to $150 for the third and any subsequent bags.
| Extra Bag Number | Potential Additional Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| First | $30 |
| Second | $45 |
| Third and Beyond | $150 |
Naturally, exceptions apply, with distinct rules for those in the Military, MileagePlus, and Star Alliance member tiers. Always double-check the specifics for your flight type and ticket class as well as your membership status to ensure you’re aware of all the allowances and restrictions.
Heading forward, we’re going to explore the methods you can use to pre-pay your baggage charges. With United Airlines’ painless and straightforward process, you can settle the fees before you even arrive at the airport.
Conclusion
Now that you’re well-versed with United Airlines’ baggage policy, you can pack your bags with confidence. Remember, one carry-on bag and one personal item are included in your ticket price. For checked bags, fees apply unless you’re exempt due to specific international routes or MileagePlus status. Keep in mind the importance of using a luggage scale to avoid unexpected fees and take advantage of baggage sizers at checkpoints. Be aware of the additional charges for excess, overweight, and oversize bags. Remember, there are exceptions for Military, MileagePlus, and Star Alliance members. Finally, make your journey smoother by pre-paying your baggage charges through United’s easy process. Safe travels!
What is the carry-on baggage policy at United Airlines?
United Airlines allows one carry-on bag per passenger with dimensions not exceeding 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches, plus one personal item with dimensions not exceeding 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches. These are included in the ticket price.
What is United Airlines’ checked baggage policy?
Checked baggage should not exceed 62 inches when you total the length, width, and height of the bag, and should not weigh more than 50 pounds. Fees apply for checked bags, but some passengers may be exempt due to specific international travel routes or MileagePlus status.
Are there tools available to check if my luggage fits United Airlines’ criteria?
Yes, United Airlines has luggage sizers available at their check-in desks and gates. It’s also suggested to use a luggage scale beforehand to avoid exceeding weight limitations and thereby incurring additional fees.
What are the costs associated with excess baggage?
Excess baggage, which includes overweight (over 50 pounds) and oversized (over 62 inches) bags, and the check-in of additional bags beyond the baggage allowance, incurs additional fees. Fees vary depending on the specifics of the baggage and the passenger’s membership status.
Are there exceptions to United Airlines’ baggage fees?
Yes, United Airlines offers exceptions to these rules for Military, MileagePlus, and Star Alliance members. They may be allowed additional bags or exempt from certain restrictions.
Can I pre-pay for my baggage with United Airlines?
Yes, United Airlines allows pre-payment for baggage charges. The process is straightforward and designed to alleviate stress at the airport.
