United Airlines Baggage Policy

United Airlines Baggage Policy: Complete Guide for United Airline Carry-On Luggage and Checked-In Bag Rules

You’ve zipped up your suitcase, ready for takeoff but there’s one lingering question: Will it actually make it on the plane? That moment of uncertainty at the gate when you’re holding your bag, hoping it fits is one every traveler knows too well. For those flying with United Airlines, understanding the baggage rules in advance can save time, stress, and unexpected fees. The policies can vary depending on your route, fare type, and even the kind of aircraft you’re flying on.

This detailed guide walks you through everything you need to know about United Airline Carry-On Luggage, the carry on bag for United Airline, and the checked-in bag for United Airline. You’ll find exact size and weight limits, special item rules, fees, and real examples of how United handles luggage on different routes and aircraft types.

To help travelers pack smart, we’ll also highlight a few Bugatti travel collections that are perfectly designed to fit United’s baggage standards: sleek, lightweight, and dependable for both short and long-haul trips.

What Is the United Airline Carry-On Luggage Policy?

Most United Airlines passengers can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free on all standard Economy, Premium, and Business fares.

Your carry-on bag for United Airlines must fit in the overhead compartment and measure no more than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm) — including wheels and handles.

Your personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or backpack, must fit completely under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions are 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 22 cm).

If you’re connecting through smaller airports or regional flights (like CRJ or ERJ aircraft), note that the overhead bins are much shallower. In these cases, even a standard-size carry-on may need to be gate-checked. You can collect it at the gate or baggage claim once you land.

Traveler note: Always measure your bag including handles and wheels before heading to the airport. United’s bag sizers are located near most check-in counters for quick reference.

Does Basic Economy Have Different Carry-On Rules?

Yes, Basic Economy fares come with stricter baggage limits.

If you’re flying in Basic Economy, you’re allowed only one personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you. You cannot bring a full-size carry-on bag for United Airlines, unless you’re flying to South America, across the Atlantic, or across the Pacific.

If you bring a full-size carry-on to the gate where it’s not allowed, you’ll have to check it for a fee starting at $35 before security or $65 at the gate.

Exceptions:

• MileagePlus Premier members
• Star Alliance Gold members
• Primary cardholders of qualifying MileagePlus credit cards

They can still bring one full-size carry-on free of charge, even on Basic Economy fares.

What Items Are Always Free With United Airline Carry-On Luggage?

Even if your fare is limited, United allows a few essential items at no extra cost. These do not count toward your United Airline Carry-On Luggage allowance:

• A jacket or coat
• An umbrella
• Food or duty-free items bought at the airport
• Reading materials
• Mobility aids like canes, crutches, or wheelchairs
• One stroller or car seat per child
• A diaper bag and breast pump
• A camera

If you’re flying with an infant, these extra items can be brought in addition to your personal item.

What Are the Rules for Special or Fragile Items in Carry-On Bags?

United Airlines has specific rules for certain categories of carry-on items:

• Smart Bags: Bags with lithium batteries must have the batteries removed before being checked or brought onboard.
• Liquids and Gels: Follow TSA’s 3-1-1 rule each container must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less and fit inside one quart-sized, clear, resealable bag.
• Powders: Up to 12 oz (350 ml) allowed in carry-on bags; larger amounts should go in checked luggage.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be your carry-on or personal item if they fit under the seat or in the overhead bin. Larger ones may require purchasing a seat.
• Medical Devices: Syringes, vapes, and medications are allowed in your personal item. Ask flight attendants for safe disposal of used syringes.

To ensure your bag fits without worry, Bugatti’s Carry-On are excellent choices lightweight, durable, and built exactly to the standard used by United.

What Is the Checked-In Bag Policy for United Airlines?

The checked-in bag for United Airline policy depends on your cabin class, route, and MileagePlus status.

Each checked bag must measure no more than 62 linear inches (158 cm) in total (length + width + height).

Weight limits:

• Economy & Premium Economy: up to 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag
• Business, First, and Polaris: up to 70 lbs (32 kg) per bag
• MileagePlus Premier Silver, Gold, Platinum, 1K, and Star Alliance Gold members: up to 70 lbs (32 kg), even in Economy

If your checked-in bag for United Airline exceeds these size or weight limits, additional charges will apply.

How Much Does United Charge for Checked Bags?

For U.S. Domestic Flights: United charges $35 for the first checked bag, $45 for the second, and $150 for each additional bag. The first-bag fee of $35 equals roughly 21% of the price of a Bugatti Berlin Check-In Medium (CAD $170). The second-bag fee of $45 is about 26% of the same suitcase’s cost. For travelers bringing a third bag, the $150 charge is nearly 95% of a Bugatti Siena Check-In Large (CAD $210) meaning you’re paying almost the same as buying another premium suitcase. You can save $5 on each of the first two bags by prepaying online at least 24 hours before your flight.

For International Flights: In Standard Economy, the first checked bag is free, while the second costs $100. That $100 fee equals about 40% of the cost of a Bugatti Hamburg Check-In Large (CAD $290) nearly half the value of your luggage.

In Basic Economy, the first bag costs $60, and the second costs $100. Paying $60 to check a bag is around 33% of the price of a Bugatti Siena Check-In Large (CAD $210), making it a noticeable addition to your total travel expense.

Some long-haul routes, such as flights from the U.S. to Brazil or Dubai, allow two free checked bags for Economy passengers.  In such cases, investing in durable, stylish Bugatti check-in luggage makes sense so you can enjoy its design and quality without worrying about baggage fees.

What Are the Fees for Overweight and Oversized Bags?

United Airlines charges extra for checked bags that exceed standard size or weight limits.

Overweight Fees:

• 51–70 lbs (24–32 kg): $100–$200 per bag
• 71–100 lbs (33–46 kg): $400 per bag
• Over 100 lbs (45 kg): Not accepted

Oversized Fees:

• 63–115 in (160–292 cm): $200 per bag
• Over 115 in (292 cm): Not accepted

If your bag is both overweight and oversized, both fees apply.

Bugatti’s Check-In Collection is ideal for keeping your luggage below these limits. Its lightweight yet sturdy build gives you more packing space without crossing weight thresholds.

What About Sports Equipment and Exceptional Items?

United Airlines accepts most sports equipment like skis, golf clubs, hockey sticks, fishing rods, and lacrosse gear as one checked item. Fees vary based on size and route, starting at $30 and going up to $150 for larger gear.

Musical instruments weighing up to 165 lbs (75 kg) can also be checked if properly packed. Oversized fees apply to instruments larger than 63 inches in total dimensions.

For fragile or valuable items, United allows passengers to purchase an additional seat to transport them safely in the cabin.

Are There International Baggage Limits or Embargoes?

Yes, United has both year-round and seasonal baggage restrictions for some international destinations.

Year-Round Limit:

• Each bag must weigh less than 70 lbs (32 kg).

Seasonal Restrictions:

• Apply during busy travel periods:
  • March 25–April 13
  • June 1–August 31
  • November 18–January 14

During these times, extra, oversized, or overweight bags may not be accepted.

For destinations like Mexico, Central America, or the Caribbean, travelers can check boxes instead of suitcases up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and under 42 inches (107 cm) in total size.

Sports items like bikes and surfboards may not be accepted during embargo periods, except for surfboards traveling to or from Costa Rica.

Packing Tip: How to Make Your Carry-On Fit

If your United Airline Carry-On Luggage is right on the edge of the size limit, a few small adjustments can make all the difference:

• Compress soft items near the handle or wheels to reduce thickness.
• Place the bag on its back (flat side down) before sliding it into the bin.
• Works best with soft-shell or semi-flexible luggage.

The Bugatti Revo Softside Spinner is great for this. It’s lightweight, flexible, and perfectly sized for tighter overhead bins on smaller aircraft.

Can You Ship Bags Instead of Checking Them?

If you’re traveling with more than your checked-in bag for United Airline allowance, or just want a simpler airport experience, you can ship your luggage.

Through United’s partner LuggageToShip.com, you can send bags door-to-door from your home to your hotel with full tracking, flexible delivery, and insurance coverage. It’s a stress-free option that helps avoid heavy airport fees and long baggage claim waits.

How to Avoid Extra Fees on United Airline Carry-On Luggage and Checked Bags

• Weigh and measure bags at home before your trip.
• Prepay online to save on checked bag costs.
• Choose lightweight luggage, like Bugatti’s Munich Collection, to stay comfortably within airline limits.
• Double-check your fare rules — Basic Economy has more restrictions.
• Know your route — certain destinations have seasonal limits or extra fees.

A little preparation ensures your bags are compliant and your trip begins smoothly.

Travel Better with Bugatti and United Airlines

Knowing United’s baggage rules is the simplest way to travel stress-free. From the United Airline Carry-On Luggage to the checked-in bag for United Airline, understanding these details helps you avoid unexpected costs and delays.

For travelers who value reliability and design, Bugatti’s luggage collections fit United’s requirements perfectly. Each piece combines premium craftsmanship, durability, and lightness ideal for modern travelers who want bags that perform as well as they look.