USA 🇺🇸 · UA · Verified 2026-08-27
United Airlines Baggage Allowance 2026
United uses PIECE concept. Basic Economy US domestic: NO overhead cabin bag — personal item only. Economy: no free checked bag domestic ($40 first), 1 × 23 kg free international. Polaris Business: 2 × 32 kg.
Full baggage rules by fare class
| Class | Carry-on | Personal item | Checked | First bag fee | Overweight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Economy US domestic Basic Economy: no overhead bag either — personal item only | 10 kg (personal item only on most routes) 43 × 25 × 22 cm personal item | Fits under seat | None — buy separately | $40 first bag / $50 second | $150 |
| Economy | 10 kg 56 × 35 × 22 cm | Fits under seat | None domestic / 1 × 23 kg international | $40 domestic / free international Y | $150 |
| Economy Plus | 10 kg 56 × 35 × 22 cm | Fits under seat | Same as Economy — extra legroom only | $40 domestic / free international | $150 |
| Premium Plus | 10 kg 56 × 35 × 22 cm | Fits under seat | 2 × 32 kg | Free | $150 |
| Polaris Business | 10 kg + 10 kg 56 × 35 × 22 cm each 2 pieces | Fits under seat | 2 × 32 kg | Free | $150 |
The real rules
United uses PIECE concept. Basic Economy US domestic: NO overhead cabin bag — personal item only. Economy: no free checked bag domestic ($40 first), 1 × 23 kg free international. Polaris Business: 2 × 32 kg.
MileagePlus Premier: Silver 1 free bag, Gold/Platinum/1K 2-3 free bags. Chase Explorer United card ($95/yr) + Presidential Plus ($395/yr) include 1-2 free bags for cardholder + companions.
Key rules quick reference
- ✓Basic Economy US domestic: NO overhead cabin bag
- ✓Economy: no free bag domestic, 1 × 23 kg free international
- ✓Polaris: 2 × 32 kg
- ✓MileagePlus Silver/Gold/Platinum/1K: 1/2/3 free bags
- ✓Chase Explorer card: 1 free bag for cardholder + companion
Insider tip
The United Explorer Chase card ($95/yr) waives the $40 first-bag fee for cardholder + 1 companion. Two roundtrip flights with 1 bag each = $160 saved = card pays for itself + $65 profit.
Data verified 2026-08-27 against United Airlines's official baggage policy page. Rules change — confirm with the airline before travel.
United Airlines baggage — FAQ
What is United Airlines's carry-on allowance?
1 bag(s) at 10 kg (personal item only on most routes), dimensions 43 × 25 × 22 cm personal item. Plus 1 personal item (Fits under seat).
What is United Airlines's checked baggage allowance in Economy?
None — Economy Basic fares do not include checked baggage. Buy back: $40 first bag / $50 second.
How much is overweight baggage on United Airlines?
$150. Book excess weight online in advance where possible — airport rates are typically 50-100% higher.
Does United Airlines Business Class include more baggage?
Yes — Business Class includes 2 × 32 kg checked plus 10 kg + 10 kg carry-on across 2 bag(s).
Can I take sports equipment on United Airlines?
Sports equipment generally counts against your standard allowance if pre-declared. Book separately for excess weight.
What is United Airlines's baggage insider tip?
The United Explorer Chase card ($95/yr) waives the $40 first-bag fee for cardholder + 1 companion. Two roundtrip flights with 1 bag each = $160 saved = card pays for itself + $65 profit.
Other airline baggage guides: