united award travel baggage allowance

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All About United Airlines Change, Cancellation and Other Fees

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United Airlines baggage fees

United airlines change fees, united airlines cancellation fee, united airlines standby fees, united airlines pet fee, united airlines priority boarding fee, united seat selection fee, fees across u.s. airlines, final thoughts on united airlines fees.

When it comes to change fees, United Airlines has you covered. Aside from its basic economy airfares, United doesn't charge change fees on most domestic flights. The airline also allows passengers hoping to book earlier flights the ability to fly same-day standby for free, among other flexible, fee-free booking options.

However, United still charges fees for checked luggage and other extras, like bringing a pet with you, priority boarding and preferred seating.

Here’s what to know about United Airlines’ fees.

» Learn more: The NerdWallet guide to United MileagePlus

United’s checked baggage fees vary depending on your route, elite status (or lack thereof), what credit card you hold and what type of ticket you’ve purchased. Head over to this page to read everything about United’s checked, carry-on, overweight and oversize baggage fees: United Airlines bag fees: how they work, how to avoid them .

on Chase's website

$0 intro for the first year, then $95 .

$0 intro for the first year, then $99 .

First checked bag free for both the primary cardholder and one companion traveling on the same reservation.

First and second checked bags free for both the primary cardholder and one companion traveling on the same reservation.

United gives you lots of flexibility when it comes to allowing you to change your flight. In August 2020, United removed change fees permanently on paid flights within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. However, basic economy fares and all other international flights are excluded.

Although passengers can change their flight at no cost, there's one caveat: You still have to pay for the difference in fares if your new flight is more expensive. And if your new fare is cheaper, you may get a future flight credit for the fare difference.

For award tickets, United also doesn’t charge a change fee as long as your domestic or international flight originates in the U.S. and you’re not flying on a basic economy fare.

United used to charge a $200 cancellation fee, but those fees are gone now too. Here's the current United Airlines cancellation fee policy:

All tickets — even basic economy — can be canceled for a full cash refund if your ticket was purchased within 24 hours and the purchase is at least a week before departure.

After that 24-hour window closes, if you purchase a nonrefundable ticket, you are not eligible for a cash refund and will instead receive a future flight credit. Basic economy fares are not eligible for these credits.

If you cancel a basic economy ticket, you will not receive a refund in any form.

Standby fees are gone now too. The airline used to charge $75 (waived with MileagePlus Gold status or above) to fly standby on the same day. Now, any customer can stand by for an earlier flight for free.

» Learn more: United ditches domestic change fees, adds more flexibility

If you’d like to bring your pet on board with you into the cabin, you will have to pay $125 each way on select flights for tickets purchased before April 26, 2024, and $150 for tickets purchased on or after that date. If you have a flight with a stopover longer than four hours within the U.S. or more than 24 hours internationally, you’ll need to pay the fee again.

There are various requirements that your pet must satisfy, so make sure you’re aware of all the results.

Priority boarding is targeted to those who want to board earlier than their ticket allows. When you pay for priority boarding with United, you will board in Group 2 behind United Airlines elites and premium cabin passengers.

The price starts at $15 per flight segment and is available only on United and United Express flights. You can purchase priority boarding privileges for one segment or all segments of your route.

When you book an economy ticket, you can pay for a preferred seat, which is basically a regular economy seat but is closer to the front of the plane. You’ll be a few rows behind Economy Plus passengers.

Preferred seats start at $14 and vary by route. Basic economy passengers are eligible to purchase preferred seating.

United offers customizable bundle packages during the booking process, which could save you money if you’re paying multiple fees. For example, you can bundle your checked bag fees and priority boarding. Keep in mind, these bundles are typically nonrefundable so be sure your travel plans are firm when booking.

In NerdWallet's most recent analysis of airline fees , we compared seat selection, checked baggage and overhead carry-on baggage fees charged by the major U.S. airlines on typical one-way fares.

Note: This analysis is based on 2023 data and does not take into account recent baggage fee price hikes across multiple airlines. Our next analysis will happen in the fall of 2024.

Here's how they stacked up:

There are many moving parts when booking any airlines reservation and United is no exception. Take the extra time to understand baggage and other fees as you plan out your bookings so you don't get caught by surprise.

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United Changes Baggage Policy On Award Tickets And For Gold Elites

United changes baggage policy on award tickets.

But, the most recent change is one that puts down a very generous policy that United has had in place for some time. Beginning April 15, 2015, baggage allowances for travelers on United award tickets will be based on the elite status of the traveler, not the status of the account holder that the award was ticketed from .

Here is what that means – as of now, if I book a flight for a friend or family member from my United 1K account, they will get the same baggage allowances that I would get. So, I get three bags in economy for the US to Europe. A person booked from my award account would get the same, regardless of their elite status. If they had no elite status and booked the ticket from their own account, they would only be eligible for one bag.

Beginning with tickets ticketed on or after April 15, 2015, each person will receive an allowance at check-in  based on their own elite status.  That not only gets rid of the generous allowance extended to passengers booked from an elite’s account (even when the elite passenger was not flying), but it also eliminates the ability to have everyone in a party to receive the same allowances as the elite member on the same itinerary.

So, if my family and I are traveling from the US to Europe on award tickets from my account, instead of each receiving three bags for free, I will be the only one to receive that allowance. My wife and children would only be eligible for one bag each ( and that at 50lbs instead of the 70lbs that I receive ).

Here is the text from their website :

Baggage service charges are based on the date of ticketing and on the ticketed cabin as well as the traveler’s status or membership on the date of travel. Eligibility for the checked baggage service charge waiver for travelers on award tickets issued or re-issued on or after April 15, 2015, is based on each traveler’s Premier status at check-in, rather than the status of the member whose miles were used to purchase the award ticket.

United Also Changes Baggage Policy For Premier Gold Members

United Premier Silver members really receive the fewest benefits in the area of baggage. In fact, you can have the same baggage benefits (domestically) if you have a United credit card as you would with Premier Silver status.

The real benefits kick in with Premier Gold and above. For the purposes of baggage allowances, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, Premier 1K and Global Service customers all receive the same baggage allowance ( three bags at 70lbs each ). That is, until February 1, 2015. After that, for all travel between the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands, Premier Gold members will only receive two bags at 70lbs. They will continue to receive the three bags on select international routes. Unfortunately, they do not write out which routes those are – you must use their baggage calculator to find out.

I did some cursory checking on the calculator and it appears as if most major international destinations (from the US) will continue to give the 3 bags to Premier Golds. So, the bulk of the changes must be for other point-to-point destinations. Still, they have opened the door and they never detail the changes to their frequent baggage policy so we do not know how long they will continue to give US departures the 3 bag limit.

Here is the text on this change:

For all United Economy® tickets issued or re-issued before February 1, 2015, Premier® Gold members are eligible for three complimentary checked bags at 70 pounds (32 kg) each. For United Economy tickets issued or re-issued on or after February 1, 2015, Premier Gold members are eligible for two complimentary checked bags at 70 pounds (32 kg) each for travel between the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. For travel to and from select international markets, Premier Gold members are eligible for three complimentary checked bags at 70 pounds (32 kg) each. To determine specific checked baggage service charges, please use the baggage calculator below.

While most passengers are likely not taking advantage of the 3 bags at 70lbs, it must obviously be enough that United wants to make some more money off of those customers. I know for us, it is a big deal. Whenever we are in the US, we always are bringing back clothes or other items that we cannot get here in Europe. We do max out out baggage allowance and have enjoyed being able to save some serious money on bags because of my elite status. With the new changes, we will lose the ability of having 2 extra bags per person (and the 20lbs on the free bag). That means that each member of my family will go from 210lbs of baggage allowance to 50lbs –  a loss of 160lbs in baggage per person!

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About the author.

Charlie has been an avid traveler and runner for many years. He has run in marathons around the world for less than it would cost to travel to the next town - all as a result of collecting and using miles and points. Over the years, he has flown hundreds of thousands of miles and collected millions of miles and points. Now he uses this experience and knowledge to help others through Running with Miles.

This would be understandable, but there are 2 potential issues: 1) People will now have their elite travel partner check the bags (violating the law), and 2) If you book on an award ticket, the additional people you book for cannot put their frequent flyer number in the system if you need to make any changes. Hence, the additional people would have no status. I wonder if United will fix this bug?

Good points. Obviously, it is something that will need some work, but the biggest problem may be at the outlier airports where the agents might not be as well versed in the policy. Could be good or bad, depending! I am surprised that it lasted this long that my family gets the baggage allowances – even when I do not fly with them!

I think all those changes are certainly fair. I wouldn’t be one to push for them, but I don’t mind that they are making the changes.

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A Guide to United Airlines Baggage Fees — Including Tips on How to Save Money

Know before you go.

Getting caught with an unexpected baggage fee is more than just a nuisance — it's a potentially costly mistake. Luckily, it can be avoided with a little planning. Using United Airlines' DIY online tool, as well as taking advantage of their prepay program, you'll be able to knock a few dollars off the cost of flying. Use the extra money to buy yourself a souvenir while traveling — just make sure you don't go over the weight limit (50 pounds per checked bag) on your way home.

Is there a baggage fee?

When it comes to flying with United Airlines , planning ahead can save you money. The airline offers customers the option to prepay for their checked bags. So, rather than checking your bag at the airport, log in up to 24 hours before your flight, and you'll save $5 per item. For instance, if you're flying economy on a domestic route, you'll pay $30 versus the usual $35 checked bag fee. A second bag costs $45, but if you prepay, it'll come out to $40, and so on.

Meanwhile, on all international flights (Europe, Asia, Australia, South America, and Africa), your first checked bag is complimentary. A second checked bag will incur a fee, but the charge varies according to where you're flying. United's website offers a handy baggage calculator to help you determine the cost. Generally, a second checked bag will set you back $45 on domestic flights, $60 if you're flying to Mexico, and $100 if you're going anywhere in Europe, Australia, or parts of Asia. Again, the fee drops by $5 if you check your bag ahead of time.

What’s included in the baggage fee?

United allows one carry-on and a personal item for all passengers in economy class. Be sure that both items fall within the maximum dimensions (9 x 14 x 22 inches for a carry-on bag; 9 x 10 x 17 inches for a personal item) to avoid having to check them and possibly pay a fee. Small musical instruments and collapsible strollers both count as carry-on items.

What’s the catch?

As always, a basic economy ticket restricts what you're allowed to bring on the plane. In this case, basic economy passengers may tote a personal item, but a carry-on bag must be checked; if they catch you trying to board with one, you'll incur a $25 gate handling fee. The exceptions to this rule are international flights to Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa, where a carry-on bag is complimentary.

Basic economy passengers, beware: Checked bags fall under an entirely different set of rules and fees. For instance, on a flight to Paris, your first checked bag will cost $70, and $45 if you're heading to Rio de Janeiro. For exact pricing on baggage fees associated with basic economy tickets, use the baggage calculator.

If you frequently fly overseas, consider signing up for United's loyalty reward program , MileagePlus. Members with status typically receive one free checked bag, and often two. You'll also end up with more wiggle room: Whereas the standard weight limit on United is 50 pounds, MileagePlus Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, Premier 1K, and Star Alliance Gold members can check bags weighing up to 70 pounds.

Related Articles

UponArriving

United Airlines Baggage Fees Policy Guide (International, Carry-On, Checked) [2024]

Having flown United Airlines a countless number of times over the years, I am very familiar with their baggage fee policy, and luckily it is pretty straight forward policy.

However, the baggage fees can vary based on the fare class you book, your elite status, credit card membership, flight route (international), and weight and size of your luggage. Below is everything you need to know about the United’s baggage policies. 

What are the United Airlines baggage fees?

Generally, you’ll get one free carry-on and one free personal item and you’ll have to pay $40 for your first checked bag and $50 for the second checked bag. Your can now save $5 on your first and second checked bags if you prepay for them. There are many rules and restrictions that apply though so I suggest that you keep reading below for more detailed information.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

United Airlines carry-on policy

United has a pretty standard carry-on luggage policy. They’ll allow you to bring the following for free:

• 1 Carry-on bag
• 1 Personal item

Carry-on bag dimensions

The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (23 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including handles and wheels.

Personal item dimensions

The maximum dimensions for a personal item are 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm). Personal items typically consist of the following:

• Shoulder bags
• Other small items

The personal items should be able to fit beneath the bottom of the seat in front of you and bag sizers are available in the check-in area, so you can double check the size of your items once you get to the airport.

If you are bringing in a carry-on item and a personal item, the flight attendants will ask you to place your smaller item beneath the seat and to store your larger item in the overhead bin.

Related: What’s a Personal Item on a Plane?

Weight limit for United carry-ons

There are no published weight limits for carry-ons but rather only size dimension limitations.

Still, just because there are no published weight limits you still want to keep the weight of your carry-ons reasonable. And if your carry-on is especially heavy I would recommend that you handle your bag yourself while storing your bag. 

Carry-on exceptions

Like many other airlines, United makes certain exceptions for certain items brought on board.

If you bring one of the following items on board, they won’t count towards your one carry-on and one personal item limit.

• Jacket or coat
• Reading material
• Food or merchandise purchased in the airport
• Assistive devices (collapsible wheelchair, cane, one set of crutches, medical devices needed to administer prescription medications, portable oxygen concentrator, etc.)
• FAA-approved child restraint system or safety seat
• Breast pump
• Pet carrier (service charges apply for in-cabin pets)

Basic economy carry-on policy

Note that if you purchase a Basic Economy fare,  you will only be allowed one personal item, unless you’re flying to South America, across the Atlantic or across the Pacific or if you are a Premier member or a primary card member using a qualifying MileagePlus credit card .

If you aren’t familiar, Basic Economy fares are the newer economy fares that are cheaper than economy but come with less benefits (many of which are standard). For example, you don’t get a free carry-on and you are not allowed to choose your seat for free.

• You can read more about United’s Basic Economy fares here  and here . 

United Express carry-ons

United Express flights are served by regional partner carriers using smaller aircrafts which means that they often have less overhead bin space. Sometimes the space is so limited that roller bags aren’t able to fit. If you’re flying in an  EMB170, EMB175 or CRJ-700 you should be fine though.

United checked baggage fees

United does not provide you with free checked luggage. The fees charged can vary by route so I suggest that you  enter in your route here to calculate the exact amount for your luggage. However, to provide you with some guidance, I’ve supplied fee amounts that you can probably expect to pay.

Unless you’re given free checked baggage due to airline status, cabin class, or credit card membership, you’ll generally have to pay:

• $40 for the first checked bag
• $50 for the second checked bag
• $150 to $200 for the third checked bag ($200 for some international flights)

These prices are the same that you would generally pay when flying other domestic airlines like American Airlines . However, it is always a good reminder that Southwest Airlines offers you the ability to check two bags for free. 

If you want all the tips on how to deal with checked baggage, be sure to check out the ultimate guide to checked luggage here .

United checked baggage dimensions and weight

The maximum exterior dimension (length + width + height) of standard checked baggage is  62 inches (158 cm) , including handles and wheels. The maximum weight for United checked baggage depends on which class you’re flying and/or your level of elite status.

Class of ticket

• Economy: 50 pounds (23 kg)
• Business/First : 70 pounds (32 kg)

Elite status

• Premier Silver , Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, Premier 1K: 70 pounds (32 kg)

If you qualify for different allowances based on your class of service and your MileagePlus status, the larger of the two allowances will apply.

United Airlines excessive baggage fees

United will charge you based on each measure that your luggage exceeds the limits. So for example, if one of your bags is oversized, overweight, and above the allowance then you will be subject to three individual extra charges. This can get very pricey so always be aware of that if you’re planning on bringing oversized luggage.

Remember, baggage fees will always depend on the airline you are flying. Therefore, if you’re flying one of United’s partners then you will have to pay partner’s prices. For example, if you’re flying Lufthansa and then connecting onto United, you will need to know Lufthansa baggage fees, even though you’re flying United on the second leg.

United Airlines baggage policy for oversized baggage

Generally, for luggage that is 63.0 to 115.0 linear inches (160 to 292 cm), you can expect to pay $200 extra per bag. That sounds like a lot but it is on par with other domestic airlines.

Baggage with total outer dimensions (length + width + height) measuring more than 115 inches (292 cm) will not be accepted as checked baggage.

United Airlines baggage policy for o verweight baggage

Generally, for luggage that is from 51.0 to 70.0 pounds (24 to 32 kg) overweight, you’ll pay $100 extra per bag  but on international flights this could be up to $200 per bag.

For luggage that is from 71.0 to 100.0 pounds (33 to 45 kg) you’ll pay $200 extra per bag

With the exception of assistive devices and musical instruments, baggage weighing more than 100 pounds (45 kg) will not be accepted.

Musical instruments up to 165 lbs. (75 kg) will be accepted along with all assistive devices.

Something to keep in mind is that extra baggage is only accepted if space permits. Oversized, overweight and extra baggage is not accepted on flights to certain destinations and on certain flights during specific timeframes.

For example, the following destinations don’t allow bags that weigh more than 70 pounds (32 kilograms):

• The Netherlands
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• United Kingdom

For a current list of destinations where oversized/extra baggage may not accepted check out the Excess Baggage Embargo  page.

MileagePlus Premier members

United will allow you to check your bags for free if you have elite status with them.

Below are the different checked baggage policies for different levels of elite status. Travel companions of MileagePlus Premier members will have the same exemptions as the Premier member whose status provides the benefit, as long as they are traveling on the same reservation.

United credit cards

If you hold the United Explorer Card you’ll be able to check a bag for free for yourself and up to one companion on the same itinerary. This benefit applies even to international itineraries which is different from other airline cards like the American Airlines cards that only applies to domestic itineraries.

If you want to check two bags for free, the United Club Card will offer you that benefit. That card is the more premium card that also offers complementary lounge access to United lounge us along with a host of additional benefits.

Hot Tip: Use a travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred to earn extra points on travel purchases like airline tickets — you can even transfer your points to United (at a 1:1 ratio) and use them to fly for free! Find the detailed review here!

Active U.S. military personnel and their dependents

The United Airlines baggage policy allows active military personnel and their dependents to check a certain number of bags for free. The size limit and number of bags depends on the purpose of the travel, however. Notice how when traveling on official business the maximum weight per bag is increased to 100 pounds.

Here are the United policies for military members and their families:

• Dependents of active U.S. military personnel have the same exemptions as the service member whose status provides the benefit, as long as they are traveling on the same reservation.
• When travel is due to official orders, dependents may travel unaccompanied.
• When dependents travel on their own for reasons other than relocation, they are subject to the normal baggage allowance and applicable bag fees based on ticket type.

So basically the only time a military family member does not get the baggage benefit is when they are traveling for reasons other than relocation and they are traveling alone.

Sporting equipment

United Airlines will accept most sporting equipment. However, you need to be aware that there might be specific guidelines and packaging requirements that you must abide by when transporting certain types of equipment. You can find out more about the specific restrictions here .

Here are some examples of accepted sporting equipment:

• Boating & surfing
• Fencing and kendo
• Hang gliding
• Hockey or lacrosse
• Parachutes and parasails
• Pole vaulting
• Skiing and snowboarding

United animal policy

United will allow domesticated cats, small dogs, rabbits and birds in the aircraft cabin on most flights within the U.S. You can read more about their in-cabin animal policy here .

Their Pet Safe program has been updated recently and you can find out more about the animal policies here.

United Baggage Fees FAQ

If you are traveling with baggage, you must check in at least 45 minutes prior to departure on a domestic flight and 60 minutes prior to departure on an international flight. (This applies to most airports although there are exceptions.). Of course, I always advocate for you to arrive to the airport much earlier than this. For a domestic flight, I will try to arrive around two hours before departure and for an international flight I will try to arrive around three hours prior to departure. Click here to see U.S. airports with special minimum required times.

For a trip that includes one or more connections, United will check bags to the final destination stated on the ticket. Usually luggage will be stored on the same flight as the traveler but that’t not always the case. You’ll need to claim and re-check baggage if you are: Making a voluntary stopover Making a connection that involves an overnight stay Connecting to an itinerary booked on a separate ticket that doesn’t include a Star Alliance partner airline Traveling internationally and connecting to a domestic flight within your destination country I would always recommend to avoid flying two separate itineraries when connecting. That is because it increases the risk of you missing a flight and if you miss a flight in a situation like that you will likely have to pay for a new second flight. Also, if your luggage is lost for some reason it can become much more difficult to work through that process since it is harder to coordinate efforts to retrieve your bag.

Effective January 15, you must remove spare lithium batteries or lithium batteries that are part of bags themselves (“smart bags”) before checking or gate-checking baggage. These batteries can be transported in your carry-on baggage. Bags with non-removable lithium batteries are not allowed on any United flights , including United Express flights.

The United Airlines baggage policy is for the most part straight forward and pretty similar to what other legacy carriers provide. However, you need to be aware of the different rules and restrictions that apply to overweight and oversized luggage as well as all of the special rules for class fares such as Basic Economy.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

can I pay cash for checked bags?

I think that’s going to depend on the airport. Some airports no longer take cash for baggage fees, so I suggest calling in to your airport.

What’s the maximum number of extra luggage that one can fly with on an international flight?

Does the baggage fee cover the whole trip, two way ticket.

The baggage fees are only good for one-way travel.

Comments are closed.

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United Airlines Baggage Fees and Tips on Covering the Expenses

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Table of Contents

United airlines carry-on allowance, united airlines checked baggage allowance, additional and excess baggage fees, can i prepay for baggage, exclusions and waivers, credit cards that give you a free checked bag with united airlines.

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Key Takeaways

• United charges varying fees for checked bags based on route, class of service, and frequent flyer status, with additional charges for overweight and oversized luggage.
• First checked bag fees typically start at $35, with higher fees for subsequent bags. Prepaying for baggage online is $5 cheaper per bag.
• United MileagePlus Premier members and certain credit card holders may receive complimentary checked bags.

United has a pretty basic baggage policy all around, so you won’t find many surprises here. Overweight and oversized fees are on the higher side but, that being said, they’re consistent with most other major U.S. carriers.

Something to note: Economy fares are split into Basic or Full Economy, which is of importance when you consider the carry-on allowance. Otherwise, in terms of baggage, fees are pretty much the same across both.

1 Personal Item: FREE 1 Standard Carry-on Bag:

• Standard Economy: FREE
• Basic Economy: No bag included (excluding South America, transatlantic/trans-Pacific flights where a standard carry-on is included*)

* Any Basic Economy Fare passenger that brings a full-sized carry-on bag to the gate will be required to check their bag and pay the applicable checked bag fee plus a $25 gate handling charge; unless the said passenger is a Premier member or a qualifying MileagePlus credit card primary cardmember or a Star Alliance Gold member.

Size Restrictions

• Personal: 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 22 centimeters)
• Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 centimeters)

Lap Infant Carry-On Policy

• Customers may carry the following infant and child articles on board, in addition to the maximum carry-on baggage allowance : 1 diaper bag , breast pump, or a government-approved child seat (infant carrying seat or car seat).

Stroller-Check Policy

• United allows passengers to check 1 car seat and 1 stroller or folding wagon per child they’re traveling with, either at the ticket counter or at the gate, for free.
• If your stroller is large or noncollapsible, or the wagon is non-folding, it has to be checked at the ticket counter (also free).
• Car seats aren’t allowed in United Polaris business class on most Boeing 767, 777, or 787 aircraft.
• Items such as a pack-and-play or collapsible crib must be checked at the ticket counter and are charged as baggage.

All checked bags must weigh no more than 50 pounds (23 kilograms) for all economy and premium economy fares and 70 pounds (32 kilograms) for business, first, and Polaris and must adhere to maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches (158 centimeters). (“Maximum linear dimensions” is merely the number you get when you add together the length, width (or height), and depth of a piece of luggage. For example, if you have a suitcase that’s 26 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 16 inches deep, then its linear dimensions are 62 inches, or right at the maximum for many airlines.)

Instead of providing a hard and fast table to assess your baggage fees at a glance, United is now recommending all passengers use its official baggage fee calculator tool .

However, after doing some basic route searches, we found consistent fees as detailed in the table below (though you should use the baggage calculator to check your specific route).

For many routes, United now charges $5 more per bag when purchased at the airport rather than prepaying.

As with checked luggage fees, United recommends all passengers use its official baggage fee calculator tool for excess baggage fees.

We ran some searches and found consistent fees for the destinations below, but we advise you to check the baggage calculator for your specific route, as this could vary based on your departure airport.

For baggage fees related to special luggage (sporting equipment, musical instruments, etc.), please refer to United’s policy .

United Airlines does allow passengers to prepay for luggage online or via the mobile app:

Here are the ways you can prepay:

• Log in to your booking on the United Airlines website
• Download and check in via the United Airlines app

Use the United Airlines baggage calculator to check for any exclusions and waivers for your route.

Here are the Premier Member Status free weight allowances for the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S Virgin Islands:

Travel companions of MileagePlus Premier members have the same exemptions as the Premier member whose status provides the benefit, as long as they are traveling on the same reservation.

The above exclusion and waivers may have seasonal exceptions or limits. Refer to United’s baggage policy .

Star Alliance Gold Members: 

• Economy Cabin: First checked bag free (50 pounds)
• Premium Economy Cabin: 3 free Checked bags (50 pounds)
• Business or First Cabin: 3 free Checked bags (70 pounds)
• Economy Cabin: 2 free checked bags (50 pounds)
• Premium Economy: 3 free checked bags (50 pounds)

Active U.S. Military Personnel

• Personal travel: 3 checked bags FREE (70 pounds, 62 linear inches)
• Military dependent with travel orders: 2 checked bags FREE (70 pounds, 62 linear inches)
• Military orders: 5 checked bags FREE (100 pounds, 115 linear inches)

Dependents of active U.S. military personnel have the same exemptions as the military service member whose status provides the benefit, as long as they are traveling on the same reservation. If the dependent is traveling because of official orders, the exemption applies. If dependents are traveling on their own for personal reasons, they’re subject to the normal baggage allowance and fees based on the purchased ticket type.

There are several United co-branded credit cards that waive checked baggage fees on United flights. There are even 3 cards that will waive the fee for 2 checked bags.

To see more airline baggage fees and policies, click here.

The information regarding the United Club℠ Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the United℠ Explorer Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. 

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United: Free Checked Bag on Award Flight with United MileagePlus Card?

What is United's free checked bag policy for award flights, with taxes and fees paid for using a United MileagePlus credit card?

TravelSort reader Diane writes “I have an  Explorer  card that I have for purchasing roughly 3-4  United  flights a year. So the card pays for itself in just the  baggage  fees alone. My question is: if I book an award travel using miles, for example DEN to KOA and it is 45k miles plus $10 fee, if I charge the $10 fee to the  Explorer  card, do I and a companion still get the free checked bag? One  United  rep said no, so I hung up and called back and the next rep said yes. Any help on this issue would greatly be appreciated.”

Award Tickets Qualify When You Use Your United MileagePlus Credit Card for the Taxes and Fees

Fortunately, the first rep was misinformed: you are able to check your first bag free when paying the taxes and fees on a United award ticket, assuming you redeemed United miles for it.

It Used to Be Possible to Just Show Your United MileagePlus Card, But (Mostly) You Do Need to Use It

Actually, it used to be the case that even if you didn't use your United MileagePlus card to pay for the ticket or taxes and fees, and just showed it when checking luggage, you were able to have the checked bag fee waived. That is now dead, although a few folks have still encountered nice United staffers who have manually waived the fee for them when they show their United MileagePlus credit card.

But don't count on it. If you will be checking a bag, put the paid ticket or, for an award ticket, the taxes and fees, on your United MileagePlus card in order to get your free checked bag.

United Free Checked Bag FAQ

What Do I Need to Do for United's Free Checked Bag Benefit?

You must 1) include your MileagePlus account number in your reservation and 2) use your United MileagePlus credit card to pay for your ticket (or the taxes and fees on an award ticket).

Can I Get Two Free Checked Bags?

Yes, if you have a United MileagePlus Club credit card or a United Presidential Plus credit card. No, if you're holding a United MileagePlus Explorer card, as that allows first checked bag free.

Is the Free Checked Bag Benefit Available Immediately On Being Approved for a United Credit Card?

Per the terms, “new United MileagePlus Chase primary credit Cardmembers will be eligible for their applicable free standard checked bag(s) 2 weeks after account opening.”

If I Have United Premier Status Can I Get an Additional Free Checked Bag Using My United Credit Card?

No–you get a first free checked bag through either Premier status or a United MileagePlus credit card, they are not stackable, so you do NOT get two free checked bags by using your Premier status and United MileagePlus credit card.

Can I Book On Orbitz, Expedia, Priceline, Hotwire, Etc. and Get the Free Checked Bag Benefit?

As long as you're flying a published United fare and pay for the ticket with your United MileagePlus credit card you can take advantage of the free checked bag benefit. Note, however, that unpublished fares , for example on Priceline and Hotwire, are NOT eligible . So be careful when booking via OTAs and third parties. 

Are Codeshare Flights Eligible for the Free Checked Bag Benefit?

No, you must be flying United–codeshare flights are not eligible, even if paid for with your United MileagePlus card.

What If I'm Flying United Using US Air Dividend Miles and Pay the Taxes with My United Credit Card?

You do not receive a free checked bag on a United flight when paying taxes and fees on an award ticket booked with non-United miles, even if you put the taxes and fees on your United credit card.

If I'm Flying a Mixed Itinerary Ticket of United and Partners, Which Baggage Policy Applies?

The baggage policy of the carrier you're flying first will apply, so if you're flying US Airways first, you do not get to have a free checked bag unless you would anyway (for example due to flying US Air First Class or having US Air elite status). If, however, you fly United first on a mixed itinerary, you will be entitled to a free checked bag if you booked the ticket (or taxes and fees on a United award ticket booked with United miles) using your United MileagePlus credit card.

Can I Check Any Type of Bag Free?

No: standard weight and size restrictions apply, so overweight or oversize luggage will incur additional fees. And I don't recommend checking your Taylor guitar 😉

What's been your experience with United's free checked bag(s) using a United MileagePlus credit card?

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United Airlines Baggage Fees and Policy

• October 23, 2023
• Baggage Allowances , Baggage Fees , Baggage Policies , Carry-on Baggage , Checked Baggage , International Travel , United Airlines

In this post we’ll take a close look at United Airlines’ baggage policy. We will explain the airline’s carry-on and checked baggage allowances and fees.

We will cover both domestic and international flights, explaining how much you’ll have to pay for your bags, including excess, oversized, and overweight baggage.

I’ve received several queries regarding United Airlines’ Basic Economy fare and its exclusion of a carry-on bag. I’ll explain what options you have open to you if you wish to bring a carry-on bag after buying your Basic Economy ticket.

We’ll end the blog by explaining some ways that you can save on baggage fees, including:

• Items that are exempt from checked baggage fees.
• Credit cards with free checked baggage benefits.
• Having MileagePlus Premier status.
• Military baggage allowance.

Basic Economy and Carry On Bags

Checked bag weight limit, united airlines credit cards with free checked bags, overweight baggage, baggage fees for oceania, carry on baggage allowance.

You are allowed to bring 1 personal item and, in most cases, 1 carry-on bag on board with you.

Your carry-on baggage must adhere to specific size limits. However, there are no weight limits for your carry-on items.

Personal Item Size Limit

All fare types include 1 personal item.

Your personal item must be no larger than 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 22 centimeters) in size.

Examples of typical personal items include:

• Small backpack

Your personal item must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.

Carry On Bag Size Limit

All fare types, except for Basic Economy tickets, include 1 carry-on bag.

Your carry-on bag can be no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 centimeters) in size.

Examples of typical carry-on bags include:

• Small suitcase
• Large backpack
• Garment bag

Your carry-on bag must be able to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Although there is no weight limit for your carry-on bag, you should be able to lift it into the overhead bins without requiring assistance.

If you book a United Basic Economy ticket, you’re not allowed to bring a carry-on bag on board. The airline only allows Basic Economy passengers to bring one personal item into the cabin.

If you bring a carry-on bag, you’ll have to check it at the gate and pay a $25 gate handling charge plus the applicable checked bag fee.

This can become quite expensive, especially if you’ve already checked some baggage:

Note: If you purchase a Basic Economy ticket and later decide that you wish to travel with a carry-on bag, you can include this benefit by logging in to your reservation on United and adding a carry-on bag. You will have to pay a fee, of course. However, it will be less expensive than having your carry-on bag gate checked.

There are a few exceptions to this “no carry-on bag” rule. Basic Economy passengers can bring a carry-on bag on board under of the following circumstances:

Your Itinerary

If you’re flying to South America, your Basic Economy ticket will include a free carry-on bag.

This is also the case if you’re taking a transatlantic or transpacific flight. This includes flights to:

• Middle East
• New Zealand

Your Loyalty Status

MileagePlus Premier Status

If you’re a MileagePlus member with Premier status, you can bring a carry-on bag on board if you’re traveling on a Basic Economy Ticket.

If you’re traveling with a MileagePlus Premier member, this carry-on bag benefit extends to you as well.

Star Alliance Gold Status

if you’re a Star Alliance member with Gold status, you’re entitled to bring a carry-on bag when traveling on a Basic Economy fare.

Primary Card Holder of MileagePlus Credit Cards

If traveling on a Basic Economy fare, you can travel with a carry-on bag if you’re the primary card holder of one of the following MileagePlus personal credit cards:

• United℠ Explorer Card
• United Quest℠ Card
• United Club℠ Infinite Card

The same Basic Economy carry-on bag benefit applies to the following MileagePlus business credit cards:

• United℠ Business Card
• United Club℠ Business Card
• United℠ Presidential Plus℠ Business Card

Standard Checked Bags

United Airlines’ checked baggage policy imposes size and weight restrictions on checked baggage.

Checked Bag Size Limit

Your checked bag can be up to 62 linear inches (157 centimeters) in size. You calculate the size of your bag by measuring its outside length, width, and height , then adding these measurements together. Be sure to include any protruding wheels, handles, or straps with your measurements.

If your checked bag exceeds 62 linear inches, it will be considered oversized and subject to an additional fee at check-in .

United doesn’t accept checked bags larger than 115 linear inches (292 centimeters) in size.

Your checked baggage weight allowance depends on your cabin class.

Economy Class Checked Baggage Weight

Basic Economy, Economy, and Premium Economy Class passengers’ checked baggage has a 50-pound (23 kilogram) weight limit. If your checked bag exceeds 50 pounds, it will be considered overweight and subject to an additional fee at check-in.

Business / First Class Checked Baggage Weight

Business and First Class passengers’ checked baggage has a 70-pound (32 kilogram) weight limit. If your checked bag exceeds 70 pounds, it will be considered overweight and subject to an additional fee at check-in.

However, if you purchase additional bags, they will have a 50-pound weight limit.

Checked Baggage Maximum Weight

United Airlines won’t accept checked baggage that weighs more than 100 pounds (45 kilograms).

However, there are a couple of exceptions to this rule:

• Musical instruments: 165 pounds (75 kilograms).
• Assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs): always accepted as checked baggage, irrespective of their weight.

Free Checked Baggage

In this section, we’ll indicate what items are exempt from checked baggage fees. We’ll also explain ways that you can check bags for free.

Free Checked Baggage by Cabin Class

Your fare may include a baggage allowance, depending on your cabin class:

For most international destinations, except for Mexico and the Caribbean, Economy Class passengers receive a free checked baggage allowance. Head to the Baggage Fees section for more information.

Mobility and Assistive Devices

You are allowed to check in mobility and assistive devices at no charge.

Examples of assistive and mobility devices allowed include:

• A set of braces
• A set of crutches
• Prosthetic devices
• Wheelchairs

These items can be checked at the ticket counter or at the gate. They do not have any effect on your checked baggage allowance.

Child and Infant Items

If you are traveling with a child or infant, United will allow you to check in the following items at no charge:

• A government-approved car restraint
• A collapsible stroller or a folding wagon

If these items exceed standard checked bag limits (62 linear inches and 50 pounds), oversized and overweight fees may apply.

As with mobility and assistive devices, child and infant items can be checked at the ticket counter or the gate. Also, they do not have any effect on your checked baggage allowance.

Prepackaged Fruit from Hawaii

If you are flying out of Hawaii, United will accept a prepackaged box of fruit as checked baggage at no charge. The box can weigh up to 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms).

Military Baggage Allowance

If you are an active-duty member of the U.S. military, you can enjoy some benefits when flying with United Airlines.

Depending on whether you are traveling for official business or personal travel, you can check up to five or three bags for free, respectively.

The bags can weigh up to 100 lb each, which is more than the usual limit for other passengers.

Related: United Airlines Military Baggage Allowance

Free Checked Bags with MileagePlus Premier Status

The following free checked baggage benefits apply to MileagePlus Premier members and their travel companions on the same booking.

Economy Class Domestic Travel

Economy Class Travel Between the U.S. And Canada/ Mexico/ Caribbean/ Central America

Economy Class Travel Between the U.S. And South America/ Asia/ Australia/ New Zealand/ Europe/ Middle East/ Africa

Business and First Class Travel on All Routes

Baggage Embargoes

There are some limitations to these MileagePlus free checked baggage benefits. The following destinations have year-round baggage embargoes in place. A maximum of 2 checked bags, weighing up to 70 pounds (32 kilograms), are allowed for the following destinations:

• San Salvador (SAL)
• Havana (HAV)
• Santo Domingo (SDQ)
• Managua (MGA)
• San Pedro Sula (SAP)
• Tegucigalpa (TGU)
• Guatemala City (GUA)

Free Checked Bags with Star Alliance Status

If you have reached status with another airline which is a member of the Star Alliance loyalty program, you may be eligible for a free checked baggage benefit:

You can check your Star Alliance status for your participating airline here .

Personal Credit Cards with Free Checked Bags

The following personal credit cards offer a free checked bag benefit:

Business Credit Cards with Free Checked Bags

The following business credit cards offer a free checked bag benefit:

Excess Baggage

In this section we’ll introduce United Airlines’ rules for excess baggage, including:

• Oversized baggage
• Overweight baggage

Firstly, let’s define what we mean by extra bags. Essentially, this refers to any checked baggage that isn’t included with your ticket. You’ll have to pay a fee for each extra bag.

When you purchase an additional bag, it has the following allowances, irrespective of your cabin class:

• Size limit: 62 linear inches (157 centimeters)
• Weight limit: 50 pounds (23 kilograms)

Oversized Baggage

Oversized baggage applies to checked bags from 63 linear inches to 115 linear inches (160 to 292 centimeters) in size.

Oversized baggage fees range from $150 to $300, depending on your itinerary.

United won’t accept checked baggage larger than 115 linear inches.

Overweight baggage applies to checked baggage heavier than 50 pounds (23 kilograms).

United has two categories for overweight baggage:

• 51 to 70 pounds (24 to 32 kilograms): $100 to $300, depending on your itinerary.
• 71 to 100 pounds (33 to 45 kilograms): $200 to $500, depending on your itinerary.

Some regions accept checked baggage weighing up to 70 pounds only.

United won’t accept checked baggage heavier than 100 pounds.

However, there are some exceptions:

Baggage Fees

In this section we will explore United Airlines’ baggage fees for checked luggage.

We begin with domestic fees, and then progress through each region that United flies to.

We break down baggage fees for each region as follows:

• Online baggage fees if there is a discount for prepaying fees.
• Airport baggage fees when paying at a kiosk or check-in counter at the airport.
• Oversized and overweight baggage fees.

A few things to keep in mind as you peruse this section:

• Not all regions provide discounts for prepaid baggage.
• Many international destinations include 1 and sometimes 2 checked bags with Economy fares.
• Not all regions offer Basic Economy class fares.
• Certain itineraries include a free checked bag with Basic Economy fares!
• Some regions don’t allow checked bags weighing more than 70 pounds (32 kilograms).
• Certain destinations south of the U.S. border are subject to seasonal or year-round baggage embargoes which can restrict the amount of checked baggage with which you can travel.

Related: United Airlines Baggage Embargoes

Baggage Fees for Domestic Flights

This section applies to flights within the U.S. only.

Online Baggage Fees for Domestic Flights

Airport baggage fees for domestic flights, oversized and overweight baggage fees for domestic flights, baggage fees for canada flights.

For flights to or from Canada, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for Canada Flights

Baggage fees for mexico flights.

Basic Economy fares aren’t available for flights to or from Mexico.

Certain destinations in Mexico are subject to baggage embargoes which can restrict the amount of checked baggage that you check in.

Online Baggage Fees for Mexico Flights

Airport baggage fees for mexico flights, oversized and overweight baggage fees for mexico flights.

Oversized checked baggage isn’t allowed for flights to or from Mexico. Your checked bag can be up to 62 linear inches (157 centimeters) in size.

Baggage Fees for Caribbean Flights

Basic Economy fares aren’t available for flights to or from the Caribbean.

Certain destinations in the Caribbean are subject to baggage embargoes which can restrict the amount of checked baggage that you check in.

Online Baggage Fees for Caribbean Flights

Airport baggage fees for caribbean flights, oversized and overweight baggage fees for caribbean flights, baggage fees for central america.

Certain destinations in Central America are subject to baggage embargoes which can restrict the amount of checked baggage that you check in.

Online Baggage Fees for Central America Flights

Airport baggage fees for central america flights, oversized and overweight baggage fees for central america flights, baggage fees for south america.

For flights to or from South America, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Certain destinations in South America are subject to baggage embargoes which can restrict the amount of checked baggage that you check in.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for South America Flights

Baggage fees for europe.

For flights to or from Europe, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for Europe Flights

For flights to or from Europe, your checked bags can weigh no more than 70 pounds (32 kilograms).

Baggage Fees for Middle East

For flights to or from the Middle East, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Also, Basic Economy fares aren’t available for flights to or from the Middle East.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for Middle East Flights

Baggage fees for africa.

For flights to or from Africa, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Also, Basic Economy fares aren’t available for flights to or from Africa.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for Africa Flights

For flights to or from Africa, your checked bags can weigh no more than 70 pounds (32 kilograms).

Baggage Fees for U.K. and Russia

For flights to or from the U.K. or Russia, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for U.K. and Russia Flights

Baggage fees for china.

For flights to or from China, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for China Flights

Baggage fees for japan / south korea/ hong kong flights.

For flights to or from Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for Japan / South Korea / Hong Kong Flights

Baggage fees for southeast asia.

For flights to or from southeast Asia, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Also, Basic Economy fares aren’t available for flights to or from southeast Asia.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for Southeast Asia Flights

Oceania includes flights to/from:

For flights to or from Oceania, there is no discount for paying for your bags online before you arrive at the airport.

Certain destinations in Micronesia are subject to baggage embargoes which can restrict the amount of checked baggage that you check in.

Oversized and Overweight Baggage Fees for Oceania Flights

For flights to or from Oceania, your checked bags can weigh no more than 70 pounds (32 kilograms).

Final Thoughts

We hope you’ve enjoyed our deep dive into United Airlines’ baggage policy.

If you’re considering traveling on a Basic Economy ticket, remember that it doesn’t include a carry-on bag. You can add a bag at a later date by accessing your reservation on United’s website and paying a fee.

However, if you turn up at the gate with a carry-on bag that hasn’t been paid for, it will be gate-checked, incurring a checked bag fee as well as a $25 gate check charge. There is no option to pay a fee at the gate and bring it on board.

Remember to always check United Airlines’ website or contact their customer service for the latest information on baggage allowances and fees.

• United Airlines

Hands Off My Suitcase

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The best credit cards to use for United flights

Editor's Note

You're about to buy a flight, and you have a credit card with that airline's name stamped on the front. That's the best card to use for this purchase, right? Or would you be better served if you used some other credit card ?

You have options for earning extra points and miles when you pay. Conversely, there are options for enjoying additional perks during your flight. Some credit cards can give a mix of both.

Let's take a look at the best credit card to use for United flights so you can see your options.

Comparing cards for United Airlines flights

Aside from using a United Airlines credit card , you could also pay using an all-around travel rewards card that earns transferable points on travel purchases, including your next flight reservation with United Airlines . Here are some cards you might pay with and what you could get when using these cards:

* Bonus value is estimated based on TPG's August 2024 valuations and not the card issuer.

The information for the American Express Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Which card should you use for United Airlines flights?

Typically, earning transferable points (which you can use in many ways, not just with United) is probably your best approach. And if you use a card that earns Ultimate Rewards points — such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card — you would be able to transfer these points to United Airlines later on if you want to make a redemption through the MileagePlus program.

But what if you need to check a bag? Do you get free checked luggage in some other way due to flying in a premium cabin or having status with United? If not, paying with a United card might make sense.

Unlike with a Delta Air Lines credit card — where the checked baggage benefit is attached to your loyalty program number — you must pay for your United flight with your United credit card to use the free checked baggage benefit.

Simply having the United Club Infinite card , United Quest card or United Explorer card in your wallet doesn't confer this benefit.

There are other benefits that require paying with your United credit card. These include earning bonus PQPs through credit card spending, receiving 25% back (as a statement credit) for inflight purchases with United and getting up to $125 in statement credits each year for United purchases made with the United Quest card.

A credit card with annual travel credits can also help offset your checked bag fees. If you don't need to check a suitcase, consider whether you're losing out on other benefits. Have you used your United Quest card's $125 in United credits this year, for example?

If you want to avoid missing out on benefits like this, aim for the card that will give you the best return on your spending through points and miles.

If you choose to pay with your Amex Platinum Card to earn 5 Membership Rewards points for each dollar, for example, you'll earn more value (in terms of rewards) on the money you spend but won't get free checked bags — even if you have a United credit card in your wallet.

Some benefits exist regardless of which credit card you use to pay for your flights.

These include eligible visits to the United Club lounges, priority boarding and priority check-in benefits, getting 5,000 miles back in your account if you make an eligible mileage award redemption while holding the United Quest card and gaining access to saver award bookings with a 10% discount thanks to the United Club Infinite card.

Another benefit available to all cardholders and those with United Airlines elite status is access to additional award space when redeeming miles for United flights .

Plus, those with elite status with United and a United credit card can receive complimentary upgrades to first class when using miles for award flights. That can make holding a United credit card worthwhile even if you also receive numerous benefits as an elite member.

Related: The single reason I'd open a MileagePlus credit card as a United elite

Bottom line

TPG's August 2024 valuations peg United Miles at 1.35 cents apiece. Even the best-earning option for United credit cards yields just 5.4 cents in value for each dollar spent on United purchases, yet more general travel rewards credit cards can earn at a higher rate. But, you need to pay with your United credit card to take advantage of certain benefits, such as free checked bags and statement credits toward eligible purchases.

Before paying with a certain card, evaluate whether you would be sacrificing benefits to earn more valuable rewards and how important this is to you.

Related: 4 reasons someone in your family needs a United credit card

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum card, click here .

A Brief Guide To United Airlines' Economy Baggage Allowance

• A number of different factors affect an economy passenger's baggage allowance, including flight type (domestic or international), loyalty status, and booking class.
• Basic economy tickets restrict carry-ons, with checked bag fees differing with the destination and offering no option to pay for a carry-on.
• Standard economy allows full-sized carry-ons but shares similar checked bag fees with basic economy; Economy Plus benefits can include earlier boarding.

One may think that when flying United Airlines, an economy class ticket is simply an economy ticket, one which comes along with a standard set of baggage allowances. This, however, is not always the case, and there are multiple different kinds of economy tickets, all of which come along with their own set of baggage guidelines.

First and foremost, baggage allowances vary significantly by flight, with clearly distinguished offerings for passengers on domestic and international services. Furthermore, members of United's loyalty program or those who hold Chase/United cobranded credit cards can also receive baggage perks and avoid certain fees.

However, the biggest distinguishing factor between United's different baggage allowances within the economy cabin is between different types of tickets. From basic economy tickets, which come along with the fewest bells and whistles, to the most flexible economy plus tickets, baggage allowances and fees vary heavily. In this article, we will take a deeper look at baggage allowances for passengers in United's economy class cabin.

Basic Economy

When analyzing baggage allowances, it is best to start with United's most restrictive fare class. With a basic economy ticket, passengers will be restricted from bringing a standard carry-on-sized bag onboard the aircraft.

Basic economy passengers can only bring one personal item onboard to stow under the seat in front of them. According to NerdWallet , passengers can check bags with the following fee schedule:

It is important to note that there is no opportunity for basic economy passengers to travel with a carry-on by paying a fee. If a passenger with a basic economy ticket brings a carry-on to the gate, they will be charged the appropriate fee to check the bag.

Get all the latest aviation news right here on Simple Flying!

Standard economy

Standard economy class tickets come with a more generous baggage allowance than basic economy bookings , as would be expected. With a regular economy ticket, United passengers can bring a full-sized carry-on bag onboard the aircraft, which can be stowed in the overhead bins.

For checked bags, however, there are relatively few benefits to a standard economy ticket over a basic economy one. When checking a bag, all fees are identical to those for basic economy tickets, except for a free bag for flights to or from Europe.

Delta Economy vs United Economy Which Is Better?

Economy plus.

With an Economy Plus ticket, passengers are entitled to a standard carry-on bag and a personal item, which is identical to the offering of a standard ticket. Fee schedules also remain identical for checked bags, offering limited benefits here.

There are some advantages to a United Economy Plus ticket when it comes to baggage allowances. While there may be few directly observable benefits from a financial perspective, Economy Plus passengers are more likely to be in earlier boarding groups, limiting the potential of having to gate-check a bag. These passengers will also be seated towards the front of the aircraft, where they will be able to exit the aircraft more quickly.

United Airlines

IATA/ICAO Code: UA/UAL

Airline Type: Full Service Carrier

Hub(s): Chicago O'Hare International Airport, Denver International Airport, Guam International Airport, Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, San Francisco International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport

Year Founded: 1931

Alliance: Star Alliance

CEO: Scott Kirby

Country: United States

Plan & Book

Flight information, infinity mileagelands, business travel, please select your country / region of residence, travel news, advisory on eva air flight affected by runway closure at toronto pearson international airport.

Aug 28, 2024

Due to partial runway closure at Toronto Pearson International Airport from September 2nd to September 3rd , EVA AIR flight departing from Toronto Pearson International Airport will be affected. The flight schedule is changed as follow.

• 2024/09/02 Flight Status
• 2024/09/03 Flight Status

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Travel Together Ticket

Spend $30,000 each calendar year (excluding refunds and returns) on your British Airways Visa Signature ® Credit Card and receive a Travel Together Ticket*.

Travelling the world is great – and it’s even better when you can share the experience with someone else or pay 50% of the Avios fare when travelling solo. Every calendar year that you spend $30,000 on your British Airways Visa Signature Credit Card we’ll give you a Travel Together Ticket good for two years 1 .

The Travel Together Ticket allows you to pay 50% of the Avios fare when travelling solo or gives you a second seat for a companion, on the same flight and in the same cabin when you book a reward flight on a British Airways, Iberia or Aer Lingus flights, including respective selected subsidiaries and franchise partners of these airlines 1 originating from anywhere in the world, not just the United States. All you’ll have to pay is the taxes, fees, and carrier charges for the reward seats 2 .

British Airways has over 300 destinations waiting to be explored, and all of them are better explored together.

Reward Flights are subject to availability. To be eligible for Reward Flight Saver, you need to have collected at least 1 Avios in the past 12 months. If you are not eligible for Reward Flight Saver, you'll be shown the standard Reward Flight price instead with full taxes, fees and charges. To find out more about Reward Flights and/or Reward Flight Saver, click here .

At time of publication, all reward flights and travel together tickets are subject to taxes, fees and carrier charges. For a peak, roundtrip flight from Los Angeles to London, these can amount to $651.33 in economy (World Traveller) and $1,984.57 in business (Club World). Subject to change.

*Flights subject to availability.

Chase Travel Together Ticket Terms and Conditions

These Terms and Conditions are effective from [ July 4, 2023] and shall apply to any Chase Travel Together Ticket (Chase Companion Voucher) issued.

Earning a Chase Travel Together Ticket

• The Chase Companion Voucher entitles you to make a Reward flight booking on Selected Airlines either for yourself and a companion or just you as a solo traveller receiving a 50% discount of the Reward flight (“Chase Travel Together Ticket”) in accordance with these Terms and Conditions and subject to availability and the applicable Taxes, Fees, and Charges.
• You are only eligible to receive a Chase Travel Together Ticket if you are a Member of the British Airways Executive Club and are the main account holder within a British Airways/Chase Credit Card account (a "Member").
• Additional cardmembers to the main Credit Card account are not eligible to receive a Chase Travel Together Ticket. Any amount spent on any supplementary Credit Card(s) of the main Credit Card account will count towards the main account holder’s Spend Target.
• To be entitled to receive a Chase Travel Together Ticket, the Member must have reached the required Spend Target within a 12-month period starting each year on January 1 and ending on December 31 (the “Twelve Month Period”). For the avoidance of doubt, if a customer opens a Credit Card account on any date following January 1, then they must have reached their Spend Target by December 31 of that year to be awarded a Chase Travel Together Ticket.
• The qualifying Spend Target of the British Airways/Chase Credit Card is 30,000 USD (the "Spend Target"). Qualifying spend is when you, or an authorized user of a supplementary Credit Card, use the card(s) to make purchases of products and services, minus returns, or refunds. Buying products and services with your card, in most cases, will count as a purchase; however, the following types of transactions won’t count and won’t earn points: cash withdrawals, balance transfers, cash advances, travellers checks, foreign currency, money orders, wire transfers or similar cash-like transactions, lottery tickets, casino gaming chips, race track wagers or similar betting transactions, any checks that access your account, interest, unauthorized or fraudulent charges, and fees of any kind, including an annual fee, if applicable.
• Only one Chase Travel Together Ticket can be earned in any Twelve-Month Period. If the Member reaches their Spend Target within the Twelve-Month Period, then further spend will not accumulate towards another Chase Travel Together Ticket. Members can begin earning towards their next Chase Travel Together Ticket at the beginning of the next Twelve-Month Period.
• When the Member has reached the Spend Target a Chase Travel Together Ticket will automatically be added to their British Airways Executive Club account. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. The Chase Travel Together Ticket will be valid from the date on which it appears on the Member's Executive Club account and will be valid for 24 months.

Using the Chase Travel Together Ticket with a companion

• The Chase Travel Together Ticket allows the main British Airways/Chase account holder, when making a flight booking using Avios on a British Airways, Iberia or Aer Lingus flight, including certain of their respective subsidiaries and franchise partners, as detailed in Clause 3 (‘Selected Airlines’), to book another seat on the exact same journey for a companion without having to pay the Avios flight price for that companion. Taxes, airline, government, or other separately charged fees and charges (“Taxes Fees and Charges”) must be paid by Member redeeming the Chase Travel Together Ticket and is payable at time of booking.
• The Chase Travel Together Ticket will be issued in the name of the main British Airways/Chase Credit card account holder, who must travel on any Chase Travel Together Ticket.
• The Chase Travel Together Ticket may only be used for bookings, which are strictly subject to availability and British Airways offers no guarantee that Members will be able to book for a companion on any specific flight with Selected Airlines.
• When booking a Reward flight with a Chase Travel Together Ticket, you can choose to make a full Avios redemption or from other Avios and Money price options (subject to the Cardmember’s payment of the Taxes, Fees, and Charges for each seat).
• A Member who has two valid Chase Travel Together Tickets on their account has the option to redeem both simultaneously on one flight booking, the Avios flight price must be paid for the Member and an additional individual in order that 2 companions can travel on that booking. If booking for the Member and an additional 2 companions (grand total of 3 passengers) then the booking will need to be processed through the contact centre.

Using the Travel Together Ticket as a solo traveller

• The Chase Travel Together Ticket allows the main British Airways/Chase account holder, when making a flight booking using Avios as a solo traveller on a British Airways, Iberia, or Aer Lingus flight, including certain of their respective subsidiaries and franchise partners, as detailed in Clause 3 (‘Selected Airlines’), to pay 50% of the Avios fare of the journey. Taxes, Fees, and Charges must be paid by Member redeeming the Chase Travel Together Ticket and is payable at time of booking.
• 50% solo traveller Reward flight discount can be accessed by solo travellers or one single adult travelling with an infant under two years of age. When booking with an infant, usual Avios redemption rules will apply.
• When booking a reward flight with a Chase Travel Together Ticket, you can choose to make a full Avios redemption or from other Avios and Money price options (subject to the Cardmember’s payment of the Taxes, Fees, and Charges for each seat).
• The Chase Travel Together Ticket will be issued in the name of the main British Airways/Chase Credit card account holder, who must travel on the Chase Travel Together Ticket.
• The Chase Travel Together Ticket may only be used for bookings, which are strictly subject to availability and British Airways offers no guarantee that Members will be able to book on any specific flight with Selected Airlines.

Rules and Restrictions

• The Chase Travel Together Ticket can only be used for travel on reward flights listed in the Executive Club Redemption table operated by British Airways, Iberia, or Aer Lingus, including certain of their respective subsidiaries and franchise, as detailed in Clause 3 (‘Selected Airlines’), in any cabin class, as long as the Member has sufficient Avios to complete the booking for their desired journey.
• The Chase Travel Together Ticket can be used for travel on any route, in any cabin class, for return or one-way journeys, as long as the Cardmember has sufficient Avios to complete the booking for their desired journey.
• Avios and Reward Flight bookings made with the Chase Travel Together Ticket can only be used on ‘Selected Airlines’ including, British Airways and its subsidiary CityFlyer and EuroFlyer; Iberia and its subsidiary Iberia Express and its franchise partner, Air Nostrum; Aer Lingus and its subsidiary Aer Lingus U.K. and its franchise partner, Emerald Airlines. This excludes any flights operated by British Airways’ franchise partner Sunair.
• Reward Flight bookings made with a Chase Travel Together Ticket can only be redeemed online through the British Airways Executive Club Avios Reward Flight booking page and British Airways Executive Club app or through British Airways contact centres, and Chase Companion Vouchers must be applied at the time of booking through your British Airways Executive Club account.
• The Member and their companions must travel together at all times and therefore must be booked onto the same flight and cabin class when travelling using a Chase Companion Voucher.
• Bookings for companions must be made at the same time as the Member makes their booking.
• If the Cardmember has a British Airways Executive Club Household Account, companions do not have to be people who are named within this Household Account, however they will need to be within the cardmember’s British Airways Executive Club Friends and Family list (a list which allows Household Account members to redeem for individuals who they do not live with). To find out more about refer to Household Accounts.
• Outbound travel must take place before the expiry date stated on the Chase Travel Together Ticket, however inbound travel on a return booking, may take place after the expiry date.
• The Chase Travel Together Ticket is non-extendable, non-transferable and has no cash value. No Avios or other frequent traveller programme miles or points may be earned on the Chase Travel Together Ticket.
• Once travel using the Chase Travel Together Ticket(s) has been booked, name changes are not allowed.
• If travel using the Chase Travel Together Ticket is cancelled within 24 hours of departure, the Chase Companion Voucher will not be re-issued to the Member’s Executive Club account.
• If travel using Chase Travel Together Ticket is cancelled more than 24 hours before departure, then the Chase Companion Voucher will be re-issued to the Member’s Executive Club account for the remainder of its original validity period.
• British Airways reserves the right to amend these Terms and Conditions at any given time. Any amendments made to these Terms and Conditions will not affect the validity of any Chase Travel Together Ticket(s) which have already been issued.
• The Chase Travel Together Ticket cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion, including Priority Reward (Gold Executive Club membership benefit). For more information on Priority Reward please visit ba.com.
• Any use of the Chase Travel Together Ticket and/or use of Avios must be in accordance with the British Airways Executive Club Terms and Conditions.
• Cardmembers and their companion(s) will be carried by British Airways and Selected Airlines in accordance with the airlines’ notice and Conditions of Contract (as stated on each ticket) and such airlines’ general conditions of carriage for passengers and baggage (copies available on request).
• Members must remain eligible for this promotion at the time of travel. British Airways and Chase reserve the right to withdraw any Chase Travel Together Tickets in the event that the Member is in breach of the terms of the British Airways/Chase Credit Card or the British Airways Executive Club Terms and Conditions.
• Offer subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Additional significant restrictions may apply.
• A maximum of two Chase Travel Together Tickets can be redeemed at any one time on the same booking.
• Only Chase Travel Together Tickets of the same type can be combined and redeemed on any one Reward Flight booking.
• If you wish to change your Reward Flight booking booked using your Chase Travel Together Ticket to another Reward Flight, with a Selected Airline that is different from your original booking, this amendment to your booking will require you to cancel the original Reward Flight and re-book onto the new Selected Airline.

The British Airways Visa Signature Travel Together Ticket entitles you to receive a second seat for a companion on the same flight as you and in the same cabin when you make a reward booking on selected airlines*. All you’ll have to pay is the taxes, fees and charges for you and your companion’s tickets. Alternatively, you can use your Travel Together Ticket to book a solo trip and receive 50% Avios discount on the Reward flight fare.

You can earn one Travel Together Ticket each year.

How do I qualify for a Travel Together Ticket?

To qualify, you must reach the required spend target of $30,000 within a 12 month period starting each year on January 1 and ending on December 31 (excluding cash withdrawals, returns or refunds, interest, balance transfers or fees). Required spend collected in one 12 month period cannot be carried over into the next 12 month period.

When will I receive my Travel Together Ticket?

Once you reach your Spend Target an e-voucher (“Travel Together Ticket”) will automatically be added to your British Airways Executive Club account. Please allow 4-6 weeks for posting.

How can I get the most out of my Travel Together Ticket?

Be flexible with your dates and destinations. Have a list of preferences and book as far in advance as possible.

Am I restricted to British Airways operated flights only?

No, you can now also use your voucher via ba.com on British Airways, Iberia or Aer Lingus flights, including certain of their respective subsidiaries and franchise partners, as detailed in Clause 3 ('Selected Airlines'), see full Terms and Conditions.

Can my trip start from outside the US?

Yes, your Reward booking can originate from anywhere, there is no restriction on routes. Please refer to Terms and Conditions regarding selected airlines, subject to availability.

When is the best time to redeem my Travel Together Ticket?

As soon as you can. Start to make a rough plan of your preferred destinations and dates of travel before your voucher is issued. Your ideal destination, dates and times may not always be available so being flexible reduces disappointment. Outbound travel must be taken before the expiry date of the voucher, which is 24 months from date of issue.

When is the best time to travel?

Although seats are available for redemption throughout the year, you may benefit from planning your trip during quieter times, such as midweek and during school terms.

When should I try to avoid?

Our busiest times are during the school holidays and at weekends, so avoiding these periods will give you more flexibility and choice.

Do I have to return during the lifetime of the Travel Together Ticket?

Although your outbound journey must be completed before the ticket expires, you are free to return any time afterwards. However, you must book your return flight at the same time as making your outbound reservation if choosing to redeem on a round trip.

Can I use my voucher for one-way travel?

Yes, your voucher can now be redeemed against both return and one-way travel.

I’ve just realised that my Travel Together Ticket has expired. Can I get it extended?

Unfortunately, this is not possible. Your voucher must be exchanged for an outbound ticket departing before the expiry date on your voucher, which is 24 months from date of issue.

Can I redeem a Travel Together Ticket when I pay with Avios & Money?

No, the Travel Together Ticket is only valid when you pay fully with Avios. However, you can purchase up to 35,000 Avios per annum, per account, if you don’t have enough Avios for your chosen reward flight.

Can I make a booking through my Travel Agent?

No, the booking must be made directly with British Airways.

Can I make my booking online?

Yes, you can redeem and manage your Travel Together Ticket online. Simply log in to to your Executive Club account using your membership number and pin.

I have a joint card with someone else, but the Travel Together Ticket has been issued in his or her name instead of mine, even though I do most of the spending on the card.

The voucher will be issued in the name of the main cardmember, regardless of who spends the most on the card.

Is it possible to allow someone else to use my voucher?

The person whose name is on the voucher must make the booking. The reward flight made using Avios must also be in the same name, although the additional ticket can be for your chosen companion.

Does my British Airways Executive Club account need to be registered in the US?

No, you can redeem your Chase Travel Together Ticket no matter where your Executive club account is registered.