United Airlines Baggage Policy

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Planning a trip can be exciting, but it’s also important to understand the baggage policy of the airline you’re flying with to avoid any surprises or extra fees. We’ll delve into the United Airlines baggage policy and provide you with all the information you need to know before packing your bags.

United Airlines Carry-On Allowance

When it comes to carry-on luggage, United Airlines has specific guidelines that passengers must adhere to. For regular Economy and Premium cabin passengers, you are allowed to bring one cabin bag with dimensions of 9 x 14 x 22 inches (22 x 35 x 56 cm). Additionally, you can carry one personal item with maximum dimensions of 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm). It’s important to note that these dimensions include any handles and wheels.

However, if you’re traveling on a Basic Economy fare, the rules are slightly different. Basic Economy passengers, except for trans-Atlantic, trans-Pacific flights, or flights to South America, are only permitted to bring on board one personal item with maximum dimensions of 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm). If you bring a larger cabin bag to the gate, you will be required to check it in and pay a $25 handling fee.

United Airlines Carry-On Allowance for Infants

Adults traveling with infants on their lap are allowed to bring a diaper bag, breast pump, and child seat in addition to their standard carry-on allowance. This ensures that parents have the necessary items to take care of their little ones during the flight.

United Airlines Carry-On and Musical Instruments

If you’re a musician traveling with your instrument, you’ll be pleased to know that United Airlines allows musical instruments to be carried on board, along with a personal item. You can stow your instrument in the overhead locker or under the seat in front of you. However, if you’re traveling on a Basic Economy fare, you can carry the instrument instead of a personal item. It’s important to be aware that if your instrument cannot be stored in the cabin, it must be checked, and a $25 handling fee will be applied.

United Airlines Carry-On and Bringing Pets on Board

United Airlines understands that pets are a part of your family, which is why they allow domesticated cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on most flights within the US. To bring your furry friend on board, they must be transported in an appropriate carrier and can be carried in addition to your carry-on bag. The cost for bringing a pet on board is $125 one way. The maximum dimensions for hard-sided kennels are 17.5 x 12 x 7.5 inches (44 x 30 x 19 cm), while the maximum dimensions for soft-sided kennels are 18 x 11 x 11 inches (46 x 28 x 28 cm). It’s important to note that only one pet is allowed per kennel, and the animal must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably.

United Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance

United Airlines’ checked baggage allowance varies depending on the fare type and destination. For Economy and Basic Economy fare passengers, you are allowed to check bags that measure no more than 62 inches (158 cm) in total and weigh no more than 50 lbs (23 kg). However, if you’re traveling in Business or First class, or if you’re an active US military personnel, you may be allowed to carry bags weighing up to 70 lbs (32 kg).

The fees for checked baggage also vary depending on the route. For example, on a US domestic flight with an economy ticket, you can expect to pay $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second. On economy fares to Europe, the first bag is free, and the second bag costs $100. Basic economy fares to Europe have a fee of $75 for the first bag and $100 for the second. Some routes, such as US-Dubai, allow two checked bags free of charge. Higher fare types usually have increased luggage allowances.

United Airlines Checked Baggage for Children

Children, including infants, are granted the standard United checked baggage allowance, along with an allowance of one pushchair or car seat. This ensures that parents have the necessary items to make their journey with children more convenient.

United Airlines Checked Baggage and Excess Baggage Fees

If your baggage exceeds the allowed weight or size limits, United Airlines will charge you an excess baggage fee. The fees vary depending on the destination and the type of fare you’re traveling on. For example, on an economy fare between Europe and the US, a third bag and any additional bags will cost $200 each. Overweight bags from 51 to 70 lbs (24 to 32 kg) will incur an extra fee of $200 per bag. Oversized bags from 63 to 115 inches (160 to 292 cm) will also have a charge of $200 per bag.

It’s important to note that bags exceeding 115 inches (292 cm) in total dimensions and 100 lbs (45 kg) in weight will not be accepted as checked baggage. Additionally, there may be temporary or permanent excess baggage embargoes on certain routes, which restrict the baggage allowances.

United Airlines Checked Baggage and Exceptional Items

United Airlines allows certain exceptional items, such as sports equipment, to be checked into the hold as standard checked baggage. However, there may be certain exceptions and additional charges, depending on the size and weight of the item. Musical instruments can also be checked into the hold, provided they are properly packaged. Oversize charges apply to musical instruments measuring 63 to 115 inches in total dimensions, while overweight charges apply to instruments over 50 lbs. If your instrument exceeds 115 inches in total dimensions, it’s advisable to contact the United Customer Contact Center for further assistance.

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