What Is United Airlines’ Baggage Policy in 2025?

The United Airlines Baggage Policy 2025 provides one carry-on bag that cannot have a length that is longer than 9 inches, 14 inches and 22 inches (22 x 35 x 56 cm) and one personal item that does not exceed 9 inches, 10 inches and 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm).

Thinking of flying United Airlines in 2025? You can save money, time, and stress by knowing the baggage policy of United, whether it is a short domestic flight or a long-distance international flight. This all-inclusive guide explains everything that U.S. travelers should know about carry-ons, fees on checked baggage, and special considerations of Basic Economy.

United Airlines Baggage: Overview 

Basic Economy (U.S.):

• Carry-On: Not allowed

• Personal Item: Allowed

• Checked Bags: Not included

Economy:

• Carry-On: Allowed

• Personal Item: Allowed

• Checked Bags: Fee applies

Premium Economy:

• Carry-On: Allowed

• Personal Item: Allowed

• Checked Bags: 1 or 2 (depends on route)

Business / First Class:

• Carry-On: Allowed

• Personal Item: Allowed

• Checked Bags: 2 Free

MileagePlus Elite Members:

• Carry-On: Allowed

• Personal Item: Allowed

• Checked Bags: Extra baggage benefits included

United Airlines Carry-On Policy

The United Carry-on baggage rules in 2025 include:

What’s Allowed?

• 1 carry-on bag (22″ x 14″ x 9″ max, including wheels and handles)

• 1 personal item (e.g., backpack, laptop bag — must fit under the seat)

Not Allowed in Carry-On:

• Liquids over 3.4 oz (TSA restrictions)

• Oversized bags (subject to gate-check and fees)

Exceptions:

• Diaper bags, child safety seats, and mobility devices do not count toward your item limit.

Checked Baggage Policy

Size & Weight Limits:

• Max weight (Economy): 50 lbs (23 kg)

• Max size: 62 linear inches (L + W + H)

Fees (U.S. Domestic Flights):

• 1st bag: ~$35

• 2nd bag: ~$45

• 3rd+ bag: $150+

Fees for International Routes:

Varies by region. Some routes include one or two free checked bags, especially for Business Class or Premium Economy passengers.

United Airlines Baggage Fees 

The United Airlines checked bag fees are according to the following criteria:

First Checked Bag:

• Domestic Fee: $35–$40

• International Fee: Free to $70

Second Checked Bag:

• Domestic Fee: $45

• International Fee: $50–$100

Overweight Bag (51–70 lbs):

• Domestic Fee: +$100

• International Fee: +$150

Oversized Bag (63–115 inches):

• Domestic Fee: +$200

• International Fee: +$200

 

United Basic Economy Baggage Rules

For U.S. domestic routes:

• No carry-on bag allowed (must pay or gate-check)

• Only a personal item is included

• You can’t pool baggage with others on the same booking

• You can add a carry-on by upgrading to standard economy or by holding United co-branded credit cards.

Special Baggage Rules

Sports Equipment:

• Allowed, but subject to oversized/overweight fees

• Ski bags, golf clubs, and bikes have specific rules

Musical Instruments:

• Must fit in the overhead bin or be checked

• Consider buying an extra seat for fragile instruments

Medical Devices & Mobility Aids:

• Free of charge and not counted toward bag limits

Pets:

• In-cabin allowed on certain flights (fees apply)

• PetSafe program for larger animals (domestic only)

United Airlines International Baggage Policy

• Most long-haul routes include 1 to 2 free checked bags

• Rules vary for destinations like Europe, Asia, and Latin America

• Star Alliance codeshare flights may have different policies; you should always check before departure

Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage

If your bag is missing:

• Report it immediately at the airport or via United’s mobile app

• Use the United baggage tracker online

• Compensation: United typically offers reimbursement for essentials and lost baggage claims up to $3,800 (U.S. domestic)

Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees

• Join MileagePlus: Earn status for extra free bags

• Use a United credit card: Many offer a free 1st checked bag

• Weigh bags at home: Avoid overweight charges

• Prepay online: Save up to $10 per round trip

• Pack efficiently: Use compression bags or personal item hacks

To Summarize

Learning the baggage policy of United Airlines in 2025 will prevent a nasty surprise and make travel easier, particularly for U.S. flyers. Travelling is stressful, and the solution to stress-free travel, regardless of being in Basic Economy or Business Class, is smart packing and planning. Moreover, you need not worry about the long flight booking process. You can get great assistance in booking flights to India through the TripBeam platform.

 

FAQs

Q1. What is United’s carry-on size limit in 2025?

Carry-ons must be 22″ x 14″ x 9″ or smaller, including handles and wheels.

Q2. Can I bring a personal item and a carry-on?

Yes, except for Basic Economy, which allows only a personal item.

Q3. How many bags can I check for free?

It depends on your fare type and route. Most Economy fares are fee-based, but Business Class and international routes often include 1–2 free checked bags.

Q4. Does United Airlines charge for overweight bags?

Yes, bags over 50 lbs (23 kg) incur an extra charge starting at $100+.

Q5. How can I avoid baggage fees on United Airlines?

Use United credit cards, achieve MileagePlus status, or prepay online.