United Airlines Baggage Rules: Carry-On, Personal Item and Bag Fees

Where these numbers come from

United's cabin rules hinge on your fare. Every passenger may bring a personal item that fits under the seat, with a commonly cited limit of 17 x 10 x 9 inches. Standard economy fares add a carry-on of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Basic Economy is different: on most domestic tickets only the personal item is included, and a full-size bag brought to the gate is charged at about $75, which includes a $25 handling fee.

Checked bag prices depend on when you pay. For domestic economy, the first bag costs $45 if prepaid online and $50 at the airport. The second bag is $55 prepaid and $60 at the airport. Premium Economy, Business and First include two free bags, with a $200 charge for a third. Elite members, Star Alliance Gold members and some United cardholders have waivers, and they may also get exceptions to the Basic Economy carry-on rule.

Consider a couple on a Basic Economy round trip, each bringing one suitcase. If they check it, that is $45 x 2 people x 2 directions, or $180 prepaid. If they instead carry the suitcase on and get caught at the gate, the price is about $75 per person each way, or $300 total. The cheapest choice is to decide at booking and prepay. A standard economy ticket that includes a carry-on may be worth the higher fare.

Weight and size rules match the big carriers. A checked bag should weigh no more than 50 pounds and measure 62 linear inches or less. From 51 to 70 pounds the extra is $100, and from 71 to 100 pounds it is $200. A bag from 63 to 115 inches adds a flat $200. United accepts nothing over 100 pounds. A 60-pound bag that would have been $45 therefore costs $145 each way.

United's online pricing matches American and Delta once you prepay, but its airport prices are $5 higher and its Basic Economy carry-on rule is stricter than Delta's or American's. That makes United a fair choice for travelers who check a bag anyway, and a worse one for someone trying to travel with only a roller bag. Fees rose in early April 2026, so older comparisons may show lower numbers.

Run your own numbers in the total bag cost calculator or rank carriers with the cheapest airline for my bags calculator. Compare with Delta and Southwest, or read the United personal item size page. United's own site loads fees with JavaScript, so figures here come from guides that quote it.

Sources

• United checked bag fee calculator (official, needs JavaScript)
• NerdWallet: United Airlines bag fees (quotes united.com, updated 2026-09-29)
• Upgraded Points: United baggage fees (updated 2026-06-10)
• Deep Arrival: United baggage fees

Figures checked on September 30, 2026.

This page is general information, not legal, insurance or travel-agent advice. Fees, rules and limits change, so confirm the figures with the official sources listed above before you book or travel.