+1-833-654-7126 How Many Bags Can You Take on United Airlines for Free?
Airline baggage policies are one of the most misunderstood parts of flight booking. With fluctuating fees and unclear rules, travelers often find themselves facing unexpected charges at the airport. If you’re flying with United Airlines, you may be wondering how many bags you can take for free and what it could cost you otherwise.
United Airlines generally allows one personal item for free on all fares, while carry-on bags are free only with standard and higher fare types. Most travelers will pay for checked baggage, unless flying in a premium class or holding elite status.
As airfare deals become more competitive, many airlines have shifted toward à la carte pricing models—offering low base fares but charging for extras like seat selection, meals, and luggage. For travelers booking with United Airlines, understanding how many bags you can bring for free is essential to budgeting your trip accurately.
What seems like a low fare online can quickly become expensive if you’re surprised by baggage fees at check-in. This is especially true for families, long-haul travelers, and those bringing equipment or large suitcases.
United Airlines has a tiered baggage policy based on your fare type, destination, and frequent flyer status. Here’s what’s typically included:
Personal Item: Must fit under the seat (e.g., backpack, purse, laptop bag)
Carry-On Bag: Must fit in overhead bin (22" x 14" x 9")
All United passengers, regardless of fare type, may bring one personal item free of charge. This item should fit under the seat in front of you and typically includes:
Backpack
Laptop bag
Purse
Small tote
Carry-on allowance is where policies start to differ:
Basic Economy (U.S. domestic flights): No carry-on bag allowed unless you're a MileagePlus Premier member or flying transatlantic/transpacific.
Main Cabin and Higher: One carry-on bag is included free of charge.
Important: If you bring a carry-on with Basic Economy and you're not eligible, United may check your bag at the gate and charge a fee.
United typically charges for checked baggage unless you're flying in a premium class or qualify for free bags through status or credit cards.
Tip: Save money by prepaying online rather than paying at the airport.
Checked bags are free if:
You fly Business/First Class
You’re a MileagePlus Premier Member
You pay using a United-branded credit card
You booked with a bundled fare that includes baggage
Book a Higher Fare Class
Avoid Basic Economy if you need overhead storage or plan to check bags. Opt for Main Cabin or higher to get more included.
Join MileagePlus
Frequent flyers can earn elite status (Premier Silver, Gold, Platinum, or 1K), each offering 1–3 free checked bags depending on tier.
Use a United Co-Branded Credit Card
Cards like the United Explorer Card offer one free checked bag for you and a companion, saving up to $140 round-trip.
Prepay for Bags Online
Log into your booking at United.com and prepay your baggage to save money and reduce check-in stress.
Watch for Bundle Deals
During booking, United may offer fare bundles that include baggage, seats, and changes for a discounted price.
Even though this blog focuses on United Airlines, many travelers compare baggage policies before booking.
If you value baggage inclusions, Southwest offers the most generous policy, followed by Delta Airlines which includes a carry-on with Basic Economy.
Q1: How many bags can I bring on United for free?
You can bring one personal item for free on all fares. A carry-on is only free for Main Cabin and higher fares. Checked bags are free only in select cases.
Q2: Does United charge for carry-on bags?
Yes, if you book Basic Economy for domestic flights and do not qualify for an exemption, you may be charged for your carry-on at the gate.
Q3: How can I get free checked bags on United?
Fly in premium class, have MileagePlus Premier status, or use a co-branded United credit card.
Q4: Are international flights more generous with free bags?
Often yes. Flights to Europe, Asia, and South America usually include at least one free checked bag, depending on fare type.
Q5: Can I combine baggage benefits with both a credit card and elite status?
Yes. If you qualify for free bags through multiple sources, the more generous policy applies.
United Airlines' baggage policy is complex but manageable if you understand your fare class and prepare in advance. For most travelers, only a personal item is always guaranteed to be free. Carry-on and checked bag allowances depend heavily on your ticket type, frequent flyer status, and payment method.
Avoid surprise charges by reviewing your baggage eligibility during the booking process and considering the benefits of status memberships or United credit cards.
For questions about United’s baggage policy or help with flight booking, contact a travel representative at +1-833-654-7126 or +1-888-803-1162.