Jennifer Yellin Contributor Jennifer is a contributing writer to The Points Guy where she focuses on family travel. She is also the founder of Deals We Like where she helps her readers travel on a deal. , Edward Pizzarello Edward Pizzarello Contributor also contributed to this story Oct. 26, 2026 • 9 min read Jump to section Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Copy URL Email The cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you are approved through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don’t cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. Checked baggage fees and carry-on allowances vary depending on your United Airlines ticket. While many travelers must pay to check a bag, others qualify for one or more free checked bags.
Your baggage allowance depends on several factors, including your destination, fare type, elite status and whether you hold an eligible United cobranded credit card .
Here's everything you need to know about United Airlines' baggage fees and policies.
United Airlines allows all passengers to bring one personal item on board for free. Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you and measure no more than 9 inches by 17 inches by 10 inches. Examples include backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags and approved pet carriers.
Most passengers can also bring one full-size carry-on bag at no additional cost. Carry-on bags must measure no more than 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, including handles and wheels.
However, passengers traveling on United basic economy tickets are generally limited to only a personal item. Those who bring a full-size carry-on bag to the gate must check it and pay the applicable checked baggage fee, plus a $25 gate handling charge.
There are several exceptions to this basic economy restriction, including:
Passengers whose carry-on bags exceed United's size limits may also be required to check them and pay any applicable baggage fees.
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Related: How to change or cancel a United Airlines flight
United Airlines' checked baggage fees vary based on your destination, fare type, bag weight and size, elite status and whether you hold an eligible United credit card.
To determine how much you'll pay for your specific itinerary, use the baggage fee calculator on United's website .
United Airlines' checked bag fees for flights within North America, Central America and the Caribbean are pretty straightforward. And, in most cases, if you prepay for your bags at least 24 hours before departure, you'll receive $5 off each of the first two checked bags.
First bag $45 $50 Second bag $55 $60 Third bag $200 $200 These fees apply to standard economy tickets without complimentary baggage benefits and may vary by route and ticket purchase date.
The standard checked baggage weight limit is 50 pounds per bag for economy passengers without elit…