How Much Are United Checked Bags? Navigating the complexities of airline baggage fees can be frustrating, but how.edu.vn is here to provide clarity and solutions. This comprehensive guide will break down the costs associated with checking bags on United Airlines, explore strategies for minimizing these expenses, and offer insights to ensure a smooth and cost-effective travel experience. Discover practical tips for baggage allowance and avoid hidden fees.
1. Understanding United Airlines’ Baggage Policies
United Airlines, like many carriers, has specific rules and fees for checked baggage. These policies depend on various factors, including your destination, fare class, and frequent flyer status. Understanding these policies is the first step in managing your baggage costs effectively.
1.1. Standard Baggage Allowance
The standard baggage allowance for United Airlines passengers typically includes one personal item (like a purse or laptop bag) that fits under the seat in front of you. Checked baggage is subject to fees, which vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
1.2. Factors Affecting Baggage Fees
Several factors influence the cost of checking bags on United:
- Destination: International routes often have different baggage allowances and fees compared to domestic flights.
- Fare Class: Basic Economy fares usually have higher baggage fees and may not include any checked bags.
- MileagePlus Status: Elite members of United’s MileagePlus program often receive complimentary checked baggage.
- Credit Card Benefits: Certain United Airlines credit cards offer free checked bags as a perk.
- Advance Purchase: Paying for your checked bag online in advance is often cheaper than paying at the airport.
1.3. United’s Baggage Fee Structure
United’s baggage fees generally follow a tiered structure:
- First Checked Bag: The fee for the first checked bag typically ranges from $30 to $35 for domestic flights within the United States, when paid online.
- Second Checked Bag: The fee for the second checked bag is usually higher, often around $45 for domestic flights, when paid online.
- Additional Bags: Fees for third or subsequent checked bags can be significantly higher.
- Overweight and Oversized Bags: Additional fees apply for bags exceeding United’s weight (50 pounds for most fares) or size (62 linear inches) restrictions.
1.4. Comparing United’s Baggage Fees with Other Airlines
To make informed decisions, it’s helpful to compare United’s baggage fees with those of other major airlines:
| Airline | First Checked Bag (Domestic) | Second Checked Bag (Domestic) |
|---|---|---|
| United Airlines | $30-$35 | $45 |
| American Airlines | $30-$35 | $40 |
| Delta Air Lines | $30-$35 | $40 |
| Southwest Airlines | Free (up to 2 bags) | Free (up to 2 bags) |
| JetBlue Airways | $30-$35 | $45 |
This comparison highlights that Southwest Airlines offers a significant advantage by allowing two free checked bags. However, United’s MileagePlus benefits and credit card perks can help offset these costs for frequent flyers.
2. Detailed Breakdown of United Airlines Baggage Fees
Let’s delve deeper into the specific fees associated with checking bags on United Airlines, covering domestic and international routes, overweight and oversized baggage, and special items.
2.1. Domestic Baggage Fees
For domestic flights within the United States, United’s baggage fees are generally as follows (when paid online):
- First Checked Bag: $30-$35
- Second Checked Bag: $45
- Third (or more) Checked Bag: $150
Paying at the airport typically adds an additional $5 to these fees.
2.2. International Baggage Fees
International baggage fees vary widely depending on the destination. For flights to Europe, for example, the first checked bag might be free, while a second checked bag could cost around $100. Flights to other regions, such as Asia or South America, may have different allowances and fees. Always check United’s website or contact their customer service for specific details.
2.3. Overweight Baggage Fees
United’s standard weight limit for checked bags is 50 pounds (23 kg) for most fares. If your bag exceeds this limit, you’ll incur an overweight baggage fee:
- 51-70 pounds (23-32 kg): $100
- 71-100 pounds (32-45 kg): $200
These fees are in addition to any standard baggage fees.
2.4. Oversized Baggage Fees
United’s standard size limit for checked bags is 62 linear inches (length + width + height). If your bag exceeds this limit, you’ll incur an oversized baggage fee:
- 63-115 linear inches: $200
This fee is also in addition to any standard baggage fees.
2.5. Fees for Special Items
Certain items, such as sports equipment (bikes, skis, golf clubs) and musical instruments, may be subject to special handling fees. These fees can vary depending on the item and destination. It’s best to check United’s website for the most up-to-date information.
2.6. Examples of Baggage Fee Scenarios
To illustrate how these fees can add up, consider a few scenarios:
- Scenario 1: A family of four traveling domestically, each checking one bag, would pay between $120 and $140 in baggage fees (4 bags x $30-$35).
- Scenario 2: A traveler flying to Europe checks two bags. The first bag is free, but the second costs $100.
- Scenario 3: A traveler checks a bag weighing 60 pounds on a domestic flight. They pay the standard baggage fee ($30-$35) plus an overweight fee ($100), totaling $130-$135.
- Scenario 4: A traveler checks an oversized bag (70 linear inches) on a domestic flight. They pay the standard baggage fee ($30-$35) plus an oversized fee ($200), totaling $230-$235.
These scenarios underscore the importance of understanding United’s baggage fees and planning accordingly.
3. Strategies to Avoid or Reduce United Baggage Fees
Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to avoid or reduce baggage fees when flying with United Airlines. These include leveraging MileagePlus status, using United credit cards, shipping your luggage, and packing strategically.
3.1. Leverage United MileagePlus Status
Elite members of United’s MileagePlus program receive complimentary checked baggage, depending on their status level:
- Premier Silver: One free checked bag (up to 50 pounds) for themselves and one companion on the same reservation.
- Premier Gold: Two free checked bags (up to 70 pounds each) for themselves and one companion on the same reservation.
- Premier Platinum: Three free checked bags (up to 70 pounds each) for themselves and one companion on the same reservation.
- Premier 1K: Three free checked bags (up to 70 pounds each) for themselves and one companion on the same reservation.
Achieving MileagePlus status requires accumulating Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) and Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF) through flying with United and partner airlines.
3.2. Utilize United Airlines Credit Cards
Several United Airlines credit cards offer the perk of free checked baggage:
- United Explorer Card: One free checked bag for the cardholder and one companion on the same reservation.
- United Club Infinite Card: Two free checked bags for the cardholder and one companion on the same reservation.
- United Quest Card: One free checked bag for the cardholder and one companion on the same reservation.
These cards often come with annual fees, but the value of the free checked bags can easily offset the cost for frequent travelers.
3.3. Ship Your Luggage
Shipping your luggage through services like Luggage Forward, ShipGo, or even traditional carriers like FedEx or UPS can sometimes be more cost-effective than checking bags, especially for longer trips or when traveling with bulky items. These services pick up your luggage from your home and deliver it to your destination, eliminating the hassle of dealing with airport baggage.
3.4. Pack Strategically
Packing light and efficiently can help you avoid checked baggage fees altogether. Consider these tips:
- Use a Carry-On Only: Pack only essential items in a carry-on suitcase and a personal item.
- Wear Bulky Items: Wear your heaviest shoes and jackets on the plane to save space in your luggage.
- Roll Your Clothes: Rolling clothes instead of folding them can save space and reduce wrinkles.
- Use Packing Cubes: Packing cubes help compress clothes and keep your luggage organized.
- Utilize Travel-Sized Toiletries: Purchase travel-sized toiletries to comply with TSA liquid restrictions.
3.5. Consider Basic Economy Restrictions
Basic Economy fares often have the most restrictive baggage policies. If you’re considering a Basic Economy fare, factor in the cost of checked bags, as they are usually more expensive and may not be allowed at all. It might be more economical to upgrade to a higher fare class with a more generous baggage allowance.
3.6. Pay for Bags Online in Advance
Paying for your checked bags online in advance is generally cheaper than paying at the airport. United typically charges an additional $5 per bag for airport payments.
3.7. Other Tips and Tricks
- Check United’s Website: Always check United’s website for the most up-to-date baggage policies and fees.
- Contact Customer Service: If you have any questions or concerns, contact United’s customer service for clarification.
- Weigh Your Bags: Use a luggage scale to weigh your bags before heading to the airport to avoid overweight fees.
- Measure Your Bags: Measure your bags to ensure they comply with United’s size restrictions.
4. Maximizing Value with United MileagePlus Program
The United MileagePlus program offers various benefits that can help you save on baggage fees and enhance your overall travel experience. Understanding how to maximize these benefits is crucial for frequent United flyers.
4.1. Earning MileagePlus Miles
There are several ways to earn MileagePlus miles:
- Flying with United and Partner Airlines: Earn miles based on the fare paid and your MileagePlus status.
- Using United Airlines Credit Cards: Earn miles on everyday purchases.
- Shopping Through the MileagePlus Shopping Portal: Earn miles for online purchases at participating retailers.
- Dining with MileagePlus Dining: Earn miles for dining at participating restaurants.
- Partner Programs: Earn miles through hotel stays, car rentals, and other partner programs.
4.2. Redeeming MileagePlus Miles
MileagePlus miles can be redeemed for:
- Award Flights: Book flights with United and partner airlines.
- Upgrades: Upgrade to a higher fare class.
- Hotel Stays: Book hotel rooms through United’s hotel partners.
- Car Rentals: Rent cars through United’s car rental partners.
- Merchandise: Purchase merchandise through the MileagePlus online store.
4.3. Achieving and Maintaining MileagePlus Status
To achieve and maintain MileagePlus status, you need to accumulate Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) and Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF). The requirements vary depending on the status level:
| Status Level | PQP Required | PQF Required |
|---|---|---|
| Premier Silver | 4,000 | 12 |
| Premier Gold | 8,000 | 24 |
| Premier Platinum | 12,000 | 36 |
| Premier 1K | 18,000 | 54 |
PQP are earned based on the fare paid for flights, while PQF are earned based on the number of flights taken.
4.4. Benefits of MileagePlus Status
In addition to free checked baggage, MileagePlus status offers other valuable benefits:
- Priority Boarding: Board the plane earlier.
- Complimentary Upgrades: Receive complimentary upgrades to a higher fare class (subject to availability).
- Bonus Miles: Earn bonus miles on flights.
- Priority Check-In and Security: Access priority check-in lines and security lanes.
- Star Alliance Status: Receive reciprocal benefits with Star Alliance partner airlines.
4.5. Tips for Maximizing MileagePlus Value
- Consolidate Your Miles: Focus on earning miles within the United MileagePlus ecosystem.
- Use a United Credit Card: Use a United credit card for everyday purchases to earn miles quickly.
- Take Advantage of Bonus Offers: Keep an eye out for bonus mile offers on flights, shopping, and dining.
- Redeem Miles Strategically: Redeem miles for high-value awards, such as international flights or upgrades.
- Monitor Your Status: Track your PQP and PQF to ensure you maintain your desired status level.
5. Comparing Baggage Policies of Other Major Airlines
To provide a broader perspective, let’s compare United’s baggage policies with those of other major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways.
5.1. American Airlines
American Airlines’ baggage fees are similar to United’s:
- First Checked Bag (Domestic): $30-$35
- Second Checked Bag (Domestic): $40
American Airlines also offers free checked bags to elite members of its AAdvantage program and holders of certain American Airlines credit cards.
5.2. Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines’ baggage fees are also comparable to United’s:
- First Checked Bag (Domestic): $30-$35
- Second Checked Bag (Domestic): $40
Delta Air Lines offers free checked bags to elite members of its SkyMiles program and holders of certain Delta SkyMiles credit cards.
5.3. Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines stands out for its generous baggage policy:
- First Checked Bag (Domestic): Free (up to 2 bags)
- Second Checked Bag (Domestic): Free (up to 2 bags)
Southwest Airlines does not offer elite status-based free checked bags, but its standard policy is very customer-friendly.
5.4. JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways’ baggage fees are similar to United’s, but can vary depending on the fare class and route:
- First Checked Bag (Domestic): $30-$35
- Second Checked Bag (Domestic): $45
JetBlue Airways offers free checked bags to elite members of its TrueBlue program and holders of certain JetBlue credit cards.
5.5. Comparison Table
| Airline | First Checked Bag (Domestic) | Second Checked Bag (Domestic) | Elite Status Benefits | Credit Card Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Airlines | $30-$35 | $45 | Yes | Yes |
| American Airlines | $30-$35 | $40 | Yes | Yes |
| Delta Air Lines | $30-$35 | $40 | Yes | Yes |
| Southwest Airlines | Free (up to 2 bags) | Free (up to 2 bags) | No | No |
| JetBlue Airways | $30-$35 | $45 | Yes | Yes |
This comparison highlights the importance of considering baggage fees when choosing an airline, especially if you plan to check bags.
6. Travel Hacks for Saving Money on United Flights
Beyond baggage fees, there are other ways to save money on United flights. These include booking in advance, being flexible with your travel dates, using travel search engines, and taking advantage of fare sales.
6.1. Book in Advance
Booking your flights well in advance can often result in lower fares. Airlines typically increase prices as the departure date approaches, especially for popular routes and travel times.
6.2. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Being flexible with your travel dates can also save you money. Flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons can often result in lower fares than flying on weekends or during holidays.
6.3. Use Travel Search Engines
Use travel search engines like Google Flights, Kayak, or Skyscanner to compare fares from different airlines and find the best deals. These search engines allow you to set up fare alerts and track price changes.
