This is the main Delta Airlines customer service' (Toll Free) phone number: +1 (877) 513-0810   freeline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for flight reservations, ticket changes, cancellations, baggage inquiries, refund requests, check-in assistance, and other travel-related needs. Travelers flying with United Airlines in 2025 need to understand the airline's checked baggage fees before arriving at the airport. While some United fares and premium cabins include checked baggage, many Economy passengers—particularly those traveling on domestic routes—may need to pay separately for their checked luggage.

For most travelers in 2025, the standard checked bag price on eligible United domestic and short-haul routes was generally $40 for the first checked bag and $50 for the second bag when paid at the airport or within the applicable payment window. Travelers could generally save $5 per bag by paying online at least 24 hours before departure, bringing the typical prices to $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second.

However, United's baggage pricing is not one-size-fits-all. Your actual cost can depend on your destination, fare type, cabin class, MileagePlus status, credit-card benefits, number of bags, and whether the itinerary is domestic or international.

United itself recommends using its Checked Bag Fee Calculator because baggage charges can vary by itinerary. The calculator allows travelers to enter their origin, destination, travel date, cabin and other details to determine the applicable charge.

This guide explains United checked bag fees in 2025, baggage weight and size limits, Basic Economy rules, international baggage allowances, ways to avoid fees, and what travelers should know before checking luggage.

United Checked Bag Fees in 2025 at a Glance

For many standard Economy passengers traveling on eligible United routes in 2025, the common fee structure was:

These figures represent common 2025 prices rather than a universal price for every United itinerary. United's official calculator should be used to determine the exact charge for a particular flight.

One of the easiest ways to reduce the cost is to prepay for checked baggage online. United states that passengers can prepay their checked bags before traveling, and on some routes a discount is available when payment is made more than 24 hours before departure.

Why United Checked Bag Fees Can Vary

There are several reasons two United passengers sitting on the same aircraft might pay different baggage fees.

The most important factors include:

• Origin and destination
• Domestic versus international travel
• Fare type
• Cabin class
• Number of checked bags
• MileagePlus Premier status
• Eligible United credit-card benefits
• Active-duty military status
• Bag weight
• Bag dimensions
• Whether the bag is prepaid
• Whether another airline operates part of the itinerary

For this reason, travelers should not rely solely on a generic baggage-fee table when budgeting for a specific trip.

United's baggage calculator is designed to provide itinerary-specific information, while its baggage pages explain the applicable allowances and restrictions.

How Much Was the First Checked Bag in 2025?

For many United Economy travelers flying within the United States and certain nearby markets, the first checked bag typically cost $40 when paid at the standard airport rate, while eligible passengers who prepaid online could generally pay $35.

United's $40 first-bag price reflected a $5 increase introduced in February 2024, when United raised the first checked-bag charge from $35 to $40 in most applicable markets. The airline also introduced a $5 online-prepayment discount.

Therefore, during 2025, a traveler who planned ahead could commonly reduce the first checked bag cost from $40 to $35.

For a round trip, that could make a meaningful difference:

• Airport/regular payment: approximately $40 each way
• Prepaid: approximately $35 each way
• Potential round-trip saving: approximately $10

Actual charges could vary depending on the itinerary and applicable baggage rules.

How Much Was the Second Checked Bag in 2025?

The second checked bag was generally more expensive than the first.

For many applicable United routes in 2025, the typical second-bag fee was:

• $50 when paid at the regular rate
• $45 when prepaid online

The second-bag fee had also increased by $5 in February 2024, from $45 to $50, with the online prepayment discount reducing the charge to $45.

For a traveler checking two bags on a round trip, prepaying could therefore potentially save approximately $20 compared with paying the regular $40/$50 rates each way.

What About a Third Checked Bag?

Additional checked baggage can become considerably more expensive.

For many applicable United itineraries in 2025, the charge for a third checked bag was around $150. Third and additional baggage charges can vary depending on the itinerary and circumstances, so travelers carrying three or more suitcases should check their exact flight before traveling.

A passenger who pays $35 for a first bag, $45 for a second and approximately $150 for a third could quickly spend hundreds of dollars on baggage during a round trip.

That is why travelers carrying a large amount of luggage should compare the total baggage cost with:

• Upgrading the fare
• Purchasing a premium cabin
• Using a qualifying United credit card
• Using MileagePlus benefits
• Shipping some belongings separately

Does United Basic Economy Include a Checked Bag?

United Basic Economy is designed as a lower-priced fare with fewer included benefits.

The baggage allowance associated with Basic Economy depends on the itinerary. On many domestic United flights, Basic Economy travelers may have to pay for checked luggage, while certain international Basic Economy itineraries can have different baggage restrictions.

Travelers should also pay close attention to carry-on rules. United's Basic Economy policies can differ depending on the route, and some Basic Economy passengers may have more restrictive carry-on allowances than travelers purchasing a standard Economy fare.

The important point is that travelers should not assume that a low Basic Economy fare automatically includes a checked suitcase.

Before purchasing a ticket, check the baggage allowance displayed with the fare.

United Checked Bag Weight Limit in 2025

A standard checked bag generally has a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg) for Economy passengers.

United's premium cabins can have higher baggage weight allowances. For example, United states that United First and United Business tickets include two checked bags, with a standard weight limit of 50 pounds for those bags on the referenced service.

MileagePlus Premier members can also receive enhanced baggage allowances depending on status and itinerary. United's baggage information notes that certain Premier members may receive allowances of bags weighing up to 70 pounds (32 kg).

Always check the allowance associated with your specific reservation because baggage limits are not identical across every United route and fare.

United Checked Bag Size Limit

Standard checked luggage generally needs to remain within United's permitted dimensions.

The commonly referenced maximum size for a standard checked bag is 62 linear inches, calculated by adding:

Length + Width + Height

For example:

• Length: 30 inches
• Width: 20 inches
• Height: 12 inches

Total:

30 + 20 + 12 = 62 linear inches

A suitcase larger than the permitted dimensions may be subject to an oversized baggage charge or other restrictions.

Before traveling, measure the suitcase from its outermost points, including wheels and handles where applicable.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage

Checked baggage fees are not the only charges travelers need to consider.

If your suitcase is heavier than the standard allowance or larger than the permitted dimensions, United may apply additional charges.

This means that paying a $35 or $40 checked-bag fee does not necessarily mean that your suitcase is completely covered.

For example, a traveler with a 65-pound suitcase could face an overweight-baggage charge in addition to the normal checked-bag fee.

Similarly, a very large suitcase can trigger an oversized-baggage charge.

Some extremely heavy or large bags may not be accepted at all.

To avoid an unpleasant surprise at the airport, weigh your luggage at home before leaving for the airport.

Do United Premium Cabins Include Checked Bags?

One major advantage of United's premium cabins is that checked baggage is generally included.

United states that a United First or United Business ticket comes with two free checked bags under the applicable baggage rules.

United Polaris business-class travelers can also receive baggage benefits.

This can make a premium ticket more attractive when a traveler needs to transport several heavy suitcases.

However, you should compare the cost of the ticket upgrade against the baggage fees you would otherwise pay. If you are traveling with two or three bags, the savings on baggage can partially offset the higher fare.

Can MileagePlus Members Avoid Checked Bag Fees?

Yes, eligible MileagePlus Premier members can receive free checked baggage benefits.

The exact number of complimentary bags and weight allowance depends on the member's Premier status, destination and cabin.

United's official baggage information gives examples of Premier benefits, including higher allowances for certain Premier members traveling on eligible routes.

Travel companions traveling on the same reservation can also receive certain exemptions associated with an eligible Premier member, subject to United's rules and limitations.

Because elite benefits vary by itinerary and status, passengers should confirm the baggage allowance shown in their reservation.

Can a United Credit Card Help Avoid Bag Fees?

Certain United co-branded credit cards can provide checked baggage benefits when their requirements are met.

This can be particularly useful for frequent United travelers.

Depending on the specific card and terms, cardholders may receive benefits such as a complimentary first checked bag for themselves and eligible companions on the same reservation.

The exact benefits depend on the card product and current terms, so travelers should verify the card's benefits before relying on it to avoid a baggage fee.

For someone who flies United regularly, a card with a checked-bag benefit can potentially save more than paying baggage fees separately on every trip.

Active-Duty Military Baggage Benefits

United provides special baggage benefits for eligible active-duty U.S. military personnel.

Military baggage allowances can be significantly more generous than the standard Economy allowance.

However, the rules can depend on whether the traveler is flying for official business or personal travel, as well as other circumstances.

Eligible military passengers should check United's current military baggage policy and carry the appropriate documentation when traveling.

United International Checked Baggage Fees

International baggage rules are more complicated than domestic baggage rules.

Many long-haul international United itineraries include one or more complimentary checked bags, particularly when passengers travel in premium cabins or on fares with an included baggage allowance.

However, not every international ticket includes the same number of bags.

United maintains an international checked-bag limits page and recommends using its baggage fee calculator to determine how many bags are permitted and what they cost for a particular trip.

For example, a passenger traveling between the United States and Europe may have a different baggage allowance from someone traveling between the United States and another international region.

Basic Economy can also have different baggage conditions from regular Economy.

Therefore, avoid assuming that an international flight automatically includes free checked luggage.

What Happens When You Connect to Another Airline?

Another important consideration is whether your itinerary includes a partner airline.

If a United itinerary involves another carrier, baggage policies can sometimes depend on the operating carrier, ticketing arrangement and itinerary.

United's baggage information notes that policies can change when a voluntary trip change results in travel on a different airline for the first leg.

Travelers should therefore check baggage rules for the entire itinerary rather than looking only at the United-operated portion of the journey.

This is particularly important when booking separate tickets.

If you have two unrelated tickets, you may need to collect your baggage and check it again, potentially resulting in another baggage charge.

How to Pay for United Checked Bags Online

Prepaying for baggage is one of the simplest ways to potentially save money.

A typical process is:

Step 1: Visit United's Website

Open United's official website and access your reservation.

Step 2: Open Your Trip

Enter your confirmation information or sign into your MileagePlus account.

Step 3: Find the Baggage Option

Look for the option to add or prepay checked bags.

Step 4: Review the Price

United will display the applicable baggage charge for your itinerary.

Step 5: Pay Online

Complete the payment before the deadline.

United specifically promotes prepaid baggage as a way to save time at the airport, and on some routes passengers receive a discount when they pay more than 24 hours before departure.

How to Use United's Checked Bag Fee Calculator

Because baggage fees vary by route, the official calculator is one of the most useful tools available.

United's calculator asks for information such as:

• Departure city
• Arrival city
• Travel date
• Cabin
• Number of travelers

You can use the "Any flights" option when planning a trip, while passengers who already have a booking can use the "My flights" option to look up their specific baggage charges.

This is preferable to relying on a generic baggage-fee table.

Ways to Avoid United Checked Bag Fees

If you want to keep your travel costs low, consider these strategies.

1. Prepay Your Bag

For eligible routes, paying online more than 24 hours before departure can save $5 per bag.

2. Use a Free Baggage Benefit

Check whether you qualify through:

• MileagePlus Premier status
• A qualifying United credit card
• Premium-cabin travel
• Military benefits

3. Pack More Efficiently

Instead of taking two suitcases, see whether you can fit everything into one checked bag plus a permitted carry-on.

4. Weigh Your Suitcase

A home luggage scale can help prevent overweight charges.

5. Measure Your Bag

Make sure your suitcase stays within United's size restrictions.

6. Compare Fare Options

If you need several bags, compare the total cost of the Economy fare plus baggage with a premium fare that includes checked luggage.

7. Check the Baggage Allowance Before Booking

Don't wait until airport check-in to discover that your fare doesn't include luggage.

United Checked Bag Fees: Example Calculation

Imagine a traveler flying a qualifying domestic United route in 2025.

The passenger wants to check two bags.

If the traveler pays the typical regular rate:

• First bag: $40
• Second bag: $50
• Total one way: $90

For a round trip:

• $90 × 2 = $180

If the passenger prepays and qualifies for the $5-per-bag discount:

• First bag: $35
• Second bag: $45
• Total one way: $80

Round trip:

• $80 × 2 = $160

Potential saving:

$20 per round trip

These are illustrative calculations based on common 2025 pricing; the actual price should always be confirmed through United's calculator.

Does United Charge for Carry-On Bags?

United generally allows one carry-on bag and one personal item on most flights, although Basic Economy restrictions can apply depending on the itinerary.

United states that one carry-on and one personal item are free on most domestic and international flights, subject to the applicable rules.

The standard maximum carry-on size listed by United is 9 x 14 x 22 inches.

Because Basic Economy restrictions can vary, travelers should check the rules attached to their specific ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was United's checked bag fee in 2025?

For many applicable domestic Economy itineraries, the typical first checked bag fee was $40 and the second was $50. Eligible passengers who prepaid online could generally pay $35 and $45 respectively.

Was it cheaper to pay for United bags online?

Yes. United offered a $5-per-bag discount on eligible routes when passengers prepaid more than 24 hours before departure.

How much was a third checked bag?

For many applicable itineraries, a third bag was approximately $150, although baggage charges can vary according to route and ticket conditions.

What is the standard checked-bag weight?

A standard Economy checked bag generally has a 50-pound (23 kg) limit. Premium cabins and eligible MileagePlus members can have higher allowances.

Does United Economy include checked baggage?

Not necessarily. Many Economy passengers on domestic routes have to pay for checked luggage, while some international itineraries and premium fares include baggage.

Does Basic Economy include a checked bag?

Basic Economy baggage rules vary by destination. Passengers should check their itinerary before assuming that a checked suitcase is included.

Can I check two bags for free?

Some premium-cabin passengers, eligible MileagePlus members, qualifying credit-card holders and eligible military travelers may receive free checked-bag benefits.

Can I pay for baggage before going to the airport?

Yes. United allows eligible travelers to prepay checked baggage online.

How do I find the exact baggage fee for my United flight?

Use United's official Checked Bag Fee Calculator. You can search an upcoming trip using your flight information or confirmation details.

Final Thoughts

United checked bag fees in 2025 were relatively straightforward for many domestic Economy travelers, but the exact price depended on the itinerary and passenger benefits. The common pricing structure was approximately $40 for the first checked bag and $50 for the second, with a potential $5 online prepayment discount per bag, making the typical prepaid prices $35 and $45.

However, these prices should not be treated as universal. International flights, Basic Economy fares, premium cabins, MileagePlus status, credit-card benefits and special travel circumstances can all change the baggage allowance.

The smartest approach is to check the baggage allowance before purchasing your ticket, measure and weigh your suitcase at home, and use United's official baggage calculator for the exact itinerary. United's calculator remains the most reliable way to determine what you will actually pay because the airline's baggage charges are route- and reservation-dependent.

Most importantly, don't wait until you reach the airport to discover your baggage cost. Prepaying online, packing efficiently and taking advantage of eligible baggage benefits can help keep your total United flight cost considerably lower.