United Airlines Baggage Fees (2026)
Quick summary
United Airlines gives every fare one free personal item, and Economy and above also include a free full-size carry-on — but Basic Economy is limited to a personal item only. After the April 2026 fee increase, the first checked bag on most domestic routes is $45 prepaid online ($50 at the airport) and the second is $55 online ($60 at the airport). Premier elites, United-branded Chase cardholders, military, and premium-cabin flyers can check bags free.
At a glance
🎒 Personal item
One free personal item (small backpack, purse, or laptop bag) on every fare, including Basic Economy. Must fit under the seat, max about 17 x 10 x 9 in (43 x 25 x 22 cm).
🧳 Carry-on
One free carry-on bag (max 22 x 14 x 9 in / 56 x 35 x 22 cm) is included on Economy and all higher fares. Basic Economy does NOT include a full-size carry-on — those passengers may only bring a personal item (exceptions for transatlantic/transpacific routes and elites).
United Airlines checked bag fees
| 1st checked bag (domestic, online) | $45 |
| 1st checked bag (domestic, at airport) | $50 |
| 2nd checked bag (domestic, online) | $55 |
| 2nd checked bag (domestic, at airport) | $60 |
| 3rd checked bag (domestic) | $200 |
🔁 Change & cancellation
United has no change fees on standard Economy and above for domestic and most international flights; you pay only any fare difference. Basic Economy is non-changeable and generally non-refundable. All tickets booked directly with United include a 24-hour risk-free cancellation with full refund when booked at least 7 days before departure.
Other common fees
| In-cabin pet (carrier) | $150 |
| Economy seat selection | From $9 |
| Overweight bag (51–70 lb, domestic) | $100+ |
How to avoid extra fees
- Prepay checked bags online (24+ hours ahead) to save $5 per bag versus the airport price.
- If you fly Basic Economy, remember you can only bring a personal item — a full-size carry-on will be gate-checked for a fee, so pack light or upgrade to standard Economy.
- The United Explorer Card (and most United-branded Chase cards) gives the cardholder and one companion a free first checked bag on United flights, plus the card waives the fee even on Basic Economy when you charge the fare to it.
- MileagePlus Premier Silver and above, active-duty military, and premium-cabin (first/business) passengers get free checked bags automatically.
United Airlines baggage — FAQ
Can I bring a carry-on on United Basic Economy?
Generally no. On most domestic United Basic Economy fares you may only bring one personal item that fits under the seat; a full-size carry-on is not included and will be checked at the gate for a fee. Elites, eligible cardholders, and certain long-haul international routes are exceptions.
How much is a checked bag on United in 2026?
On most domestic routes the first checked bag is $45 if you prepay online (or $50 at the airport) and the second is $55 online ($60 at the airport), following United's April 2026 fee increase. International and some routes differ.
Does United offer a free cancellation window?
Yes. Tickets booked directly with United at least 7 days before departure can be canceled within 24 hours for a full refund, regardless of fare type, including Basic Economy.
Sources
This guide is independent and not affiliated with United Airlines. Baggage fees and policies change often and vary by route, fare type, and date — always confirm on the airline's official website before booking or flying.