United Airlines Checked Baggage: Fees, Size & Weight (2026)
United's first checked bag is $40 prepaid ($45 at the airport) and the second is $50 prepaid ($55 at the airport) on domestic routes, for tickets bought on or after April 3, 2026. Bags must be under 50 lb and 62 linear inches. MileagePlus Premier members and United card holders get the first bag free.
| Bag | Prepaid | At airport |
|---|---|---|
| First checked bag | $40 | $45 |
| Second checked bag | $50 | $55 |
| Third+ bag | $150 to $200 depending on route | |
Does United Airlines charge for checked bags?
United Airlines charges $40 prepaid ($45 at the airport) for the first checked bag and $50 for the second on typical domestic routes. United raised first and second checked-bag fees by $10 for tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026 — the first increase in two years.
Who flies free: MileagePlus Premier members, United co-brand Chase card holders (first bag free for cardholder), premium cabin passengers, and active US military.
Weight and size limits
Weight: 50 lb (23 kg) economy; 70 lb (32 kg) premium cabins
Size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
Overweight: $100 for 51-70 lb, $200 for 71-100 lb; bags over 100 lb not accepted
Oversize: $200 for bags over 62 linear inches
2026 policy note: United raised first and second checked-bag fees by $10 for tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026 — the first increase in two years.
How to avoid the fee on United Airlines
MileagePlus Premier members, United co-brand Chase card holders (first bag free for cardholder), premium cabin passengers, and active US military.
How United Airlines compares
See checked-baggage fees and limits for Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines — fees, weight caps, and free-bag rules differ airline by airline.
Frequently asked questions
Does United Airlines charge for checked bags?
United Airlines charges $40 prepaid ($45 at the airport) for the first checked bag and $50 for the second on typical domestic routes. United raised first and second checked-bag fees by $10 for tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026 — the first increase in two years.
What is United Airlines's checked bag weight limit?
50 lb (23 kg) economy; 70 lb (32 kg) premium cabins
What is United Airlines's checked bag size limit?
62 linear inches (length + width + height)
Who flies free with United Airlines checked bags?
MileagePlus Premier members, United co-brand Chase card holders (first bag free for cardholder), premium cabin passengers, and active US military.