United Airlines bag fees and rules (2026)
On most domestic United flights a first checked bag costs about $45 to $50 and a second about $55 to $60, depending on when you pay. Basic Economy generally doesn't include a full-size carry-on on domestic flights.
Last checked October 2026. Fees change, so confirm on United baggage information before you fly.
United at a glance
| Personal item | Free |
|---|---|
| Carry-on (overhead bin) | Free on most fares; Basic Economy generally excludes it on domestic flights |
| 1st checked bag | About $45 prepaid online, about $50 at the airport |
| 2nd checked bag | About $55 prepaid, about $60 at the airport |
| Checked bag limits | 50 lb and 62 linear inches |
What flying United is like
United runs a huge network out of big hubs including Newark, Chicago O'Hare, Denver, Houston, San Francisco, and Washington Dulles. Its app is genuinely useful for rebooking during delays and tracking checked bags. United prices bags by itinerary, so use its bag calculator for your exact trip.
How to pay less on United
- Prepay checked bags online instead of paying at the airport.
- Read the fare rules before buying Basic Economy. The carry-on restriction catches a lot of people.
- A United co-branded credit card or MileagePlus status can get your first bag free.
- Turn on bag tracking in the United app as soon as you check in.
The JetFools roast
Will lose your bag, then lose the form about losing your bag.
Fee creativity
Snack disappointment
Gate change index
The roast and scores are comedy and opinion, not data.
Quick answers
- How much is a checked bag on United?
- About $45 for the first bag prepaid online on most domestic flights, about $50 at the airport, and more for a second bag. United prices bags by itinerary, so check its calculator.
- Can I bring a carry-on on United Basic Economy?
- Generally not on domestic flights. You get a personal item that fits under the seat.
- What's the checked bag weight limit on United?
- 50 pounds and 62 linear inches in economy before overweight or oversize fees.
If something goes wrong
Cancelled flight? You may be owed a cash refund. Bumped? You may be owed up to $2,150. Lost bag? There are rules for that too. See your rights as a US air traveler.
Sources: United baggage information and airline fee pages reviewed October 2026.
Other airline guides: Frontier, American, Allegiant, Southwest, or all airlines.
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