United Airlines Baggage Policy: International Flights, Basic Economy, Carry-On, Military & Mexico

Make sure you're aware of United Airlines' baggage policy before you travel. This article covers everything from carry-on and checked bags to associated fees.

Traveling with United Airlines? Understanding their baggage policy is essential to ensure a smooth journey. This article covers United Airlines’ baggage policies for international flights, basic economy, carry-on, military personnel, first class, flights to Mexico, and associated fees.

Carry-on Baggage Policy

United Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item (e.g., purse, briefcase, laptop bag) per passenger, free of charge[1]. The carry-on bag must not exceed 9 x 14 x 22 inches (22 x 35 x 56 cm), including wheels and handles[2]. Basic Economy passengers on trans-Atlantic, trans-Pacific flights, or flights to South America are allowed a carry-on bag; however, other Basic Economy passengers are only permitted one personal item with maximum dimensions of 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm) [3].

Checked Baggage Policy

United Airlines‘ checked baggage allowance permits Economy and Basic Economy fare passengers to check bags that measure no more than 62 inches (158 cm) in total and weigh no more than 50 lbs (23 kg) [3]. Higher fares, such as Business and First, as well as active US military personnel, may carry bags up to 70 lbs (32 kg) in weight[3].

Baggage Policy for International Flights

The weight limit on United Airlines international flights is 45 kg or 100 lbs[4]. Baggage fees may apply depending on the destination and fare type[5].

Baggage Policy for Basic Economy

Basic Economy passengers are only allowed one personal item with maximum dimensions of 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm) [6]. Carry-on bags are not permitted for Basic Economy passengers, except on trans-Atlantic, trans-Pacific flights, or flights to South America[6].

Baggage Policy for Military Personnel

Active duty military personnel traveling on official orders or for pleasure can check extra baggage free of charge[7]. Military personnel on official business are allowed to check luggage up to 70 lbs (32 kg) in weight and up to five bags[8].

Baggage Policy for First Class

First Class passengers can check up to two standard-sized bags free of charge[9]. Checked bags will receive priority handling and should be among the first to arrive at the baggage claim[10].

Baggage Policy for Flights to Mexico

United Airlines’ baggage policy for flights to Mexico is consistent with their general international flights policy. Baggage fees may apply depending on the destination and fare type[5].

Baggage Policy and Fees

Baggage fees vary depending on the fare type, destination, and other factors. For domestic flights, no checked luggage is included in the ticket fee and must be purchased separately. The first bag costs $40[11]. Additional fees may apply for overweight or oversized bags[12].

In conclusion, understanding United Airlines’ baggage policies is crucial for a hassle-free travel experience. Be sure to check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date information on baggage allowances and fees before your trip.

Citations:
[1] https://www.seatguru.com/airlines/United_Airlines/baggage.php
[2] https://travelpro.com/pages/united-airlines-carry-on-bag-size-rules-restrictions
[3] https://www.sendmybag.com/en-us/airlines/united-baggage-allowance/
[4] https://airlines-gethuman.org/united-airlines-baggage-policy.php
[5] https://thepointsguy.com/guide/united-airlines-baggage-fees/
[6] https://www.united.com/en/us/fly/baggage/carry-on.html
[7] https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/products/milgov/military-benefits.html
[8] https://www.airline-baggage-fees.com/military-baggage-allowance-on-united-airlines/
[9] https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/inflight/cabin/first.html
[10] https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/guide-to-united-first-class
[11] https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/airlines/united-airlines-baggage-fees/
[12] https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/baggage.html

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