Do United Airlines Charge For Baggage?

Planning for a trip can be a daunting task, and one crucial aspect is knowing the baggage allowance of your chosen airline. United Airlines is a top-rated American airline with an extensive network of destinations. However, before booking your United Airlines flight, you may be wondering if they charge for baggage.

In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information you need to know about United Airlines baggage policy. From the number of bags you can carry to the fees charged for excess baggage, we have got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover if United Airlines charge for baggage.

Do United Airlines Charge for Baggage?

United Airlines is one of the major airlines in the United States, operating both domestic and international flights. If you are planning to fly with United Airlines, you may be wondering about their baggage policy. In this article, we will discuss whether United Airlines charge for baggage and what you need to know before booking your flight.

Carry-On Baggage

Carry-on baggage is the type of baggage that you can bring with you on the plane and store in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. United Airlines allows one personal item and one carry-on bag per passenger. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you, while the carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin.

If you are flying with United Airlines, you can bring one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag, and one carry-on bag, such as a suitcase or backpack, without any additional fees. However, the carry-on bag must meet United Airlines’ size restrictions, which are 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches or smaller.

If your carry-on bag exceeds the size requirement, you will need to check it in, and United Airlines will charge you a baggage fee.

Checked Baggage

Checked baggage is the type of baggage that you check in at the airport and is stored in the cargo hold of the plane. United Airlines charges a fee for checked baggage, and the fee varies depending on your destination, fare class, and the number of bags you are checking in.

If you are flying within the United States, United Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag. If you are traveling internationally, the baggage fee may vary depending on your destination and fare class.

It is important to note that if you are a United Airlines MileagePlus Premier member or traveling in a premium cabin, you may be eligible for free checked baggage.

Excess Baggage

If you are bringing more baggage than the allowed limit, you will need to pay an excess baggage fee. The excess baggage fee varies depending on your destination and the weight of your baggage.

United Airlines charges $150 for each bag that exceeds the weight limit of 50 pounds and $200 for each bag that exceeds the size limit of 62 inches.

It is important to note that there are some items that are not allowed on the plane, and you may need to pay an additional fee to bring them with you. For example, if you are traveling with a musical instrument, you may need to purchase an extra seat or pay an additional fee to bring it with you.

Benefits of Paying for Baggage

While it may be frustrating to pay for baggage, there are some benefits to doing so. First, you can avoid the hassle of carrying heavy bags through the airport and onto the plane. Second, you can avoid the risk of losing your baggage or having it damaged during the flight.

Moreover, if you are traveling with a lot of baggage, paying for baggage may be more cost-effective than shipping your luggage to your destination. Shipping your luggage can be expensive, especially if you are traveling internationally.

Conclusion

In conclusion, United Airlines charges for baggage, both for checked and excess baggage. The fee varies depending on your destination, fare class, and the number of bags you are checking in. However, if you are traveling within the United States and bringing only a personal item and a carry-on bag, you can avoid baggage fees.

It is important to read and understand United Airlines’ baggage policy before booking your flight to avoid any surprises or additional fees at the airport. By knowing the rules, you can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveling can be stressful, and we understand that you may have some questions about your flight with United Airlines. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What is United Airlines’ baggage policy?

United Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board for free. However, checked baggage fees apply for all checked bags. The fee depends on the route, destination, fare class, and MileagePlus status of the passenger. United Airlines also has size and weight restrictions on checked bags, so make sure to check their website for more information.

Pro tip: If you want to save money on baggage fees, you can prepay for your checked bags online or use a United Airlines credit card to get a free checked bag.

What if my bag exceeds the size or weight limit?

If your bag exceeds United Airlines’ size or weight limit, you will have to pay an additional fee. The fee depends on the route, destination, fare class, and MileagePlus status of the passenger. If your bag is too heavy, you can remove some items and pack them in a separate bag or carry-on bag to avoid paying the overweight fee.

Pro tip: Make sure to check United Airlines’ baggage policy before packing to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Do I have to pay for my carry-on bag?

No, United Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board for free. However, there are size restrictions on carry-on bags, so make sure to check United Airlines’ website for more information.

Pro tip: If you have a lot of carry-on items, consider upgrading to a higher fare class or purchasing priority boarding to ensure you have enough overhead bin space for your bags.

Can I bring a musical instrument on board?

Yes, United Airlines allows passengers to bring small musical instruments on board as carry-on items, as long as they meet the size and weight restrictions. For larger instruments, such as guitars or cellos, you may have to purchase an extra seat or check them as baggage. Make sure to contact United Airlines in advance to make arrangements for your musical instrument.

Pro tip: If you’re traveling with a musical instrument, make sure to pack it securely and label it as fragile to prevent any damage during transport.

What if my baggage is lost or damaged?

If your baggage is lost or damaged during your flight with United Airlines, you should report it to a United Airlines representative at the airport immediately. United Airlines has a baggage tracing system to help locate lost bags, and they may offer compensation for damaged bags. Make sure to keep all receipts and documentation related to your baggage to help with your claim.

Pro tip: To avoid losing your baggage, make sure to label it with your name, address, and phone number, and pack any valuable or fragile items in your carry-on bag.

United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained

In conclusion, United Airlines does charge for baggage on most of their flights. This policy is in line with most other major airlines and can be easily managed by planning ahead and considering the airline’s baggage fees when booking a trip. While additional fees may seem frustrating, United Airlines offers a range of fare options that can help travelers save money and avoid unexpected expenses.

It’s important to note that United Airlines does offer some exemptions for baggage fees, including for certain elite status members and military personnel. Additionally, the airline provides options for purchasing extra baggage allowance or bundling baggage fees into a fare package for added convenience.

Ultimately, whether or not United Airlines charges for baggage should not deter travelers from choosing this airline for their next trip. With proper planning and awareness of the airline’s policies, passengers can enjoy a smooth and stress-free travel experience with United Airlines.