Packing for United Airlines: The Ultimate Guide to Avoiding Extra Costs

Baggage fee is only a waste of money if you love travel and you must be smart while packing your bags. Your holiday can be exciting and memorable for you when you are not paying any extra charges during the travel. United Airlines also has a baggage policy, rules, and regulations that every passenger must follow to avoid extra baggage costs. This is an ultimate guide that helps you to navigate the baggage rules, and from these tips, you can learn how to pack smartly while boarding United flights.

Understand United Airlines' Baggage Allowances

Carry-On Bag and Personal Item

This airline also offers one personal item and one carry-on bag free per passenger, but the maximum dimensions for the carry-on luggage is 9 x 14 x 22 inches. The bag must fit in the overhead bin space. One personal item is also included in the carry-on bag, and you can carry your purse, laptop bag, or small backpack. the maximum dimensions allowed are 9 x 10 x 17 inches.

Checked Baggage Fee

There are two types of checked baggage fees that you need to know. The standard checked bag dimensions are 62 inches, and the weight limit is 50 pounds for the economy and 70 pounds for the business and first-class cabin. The fee for the checked bag varies based on the itinerary. The first checked bag is $35, and the second bag is $45.

Know the Overweight and Oversize Fees

Overweight Bags:

• 51 to 70 pounds (23 to 32 kg): Additional fee of $100 per bag.
• 71 to 100 pounds (32 to 45 kg): Additional fee of $200 per bag.
• Bags over 100 pounds (45 kg) are not accepted.

Oversize Bags:

• Bags measuring 63 to 115 linear inches incur an additional fee of $200.
• Bags over 115 linear inches are not accepted.

Tips to Avoid Extra Cost on United Airlines Baggage

You must pack smart, and your bag must not weigh extra. You can weigh your bags at home, and you can use your luggage scale to ensure your bags meet weight requirements. You can also measure your luggage to check that your bags are within the size limits to avoid oversize fees. Using compression bags also helps you reduce the volume of your clothes, and you can pack more efficiently.

Make sure to maximize your item

You must maximize your item and make sure your item is spacious to add extra stuff. You can also use a bag that meets the weight and size limits for good space. You must pack essentials and make sure to pack any heavy and essential items in your personal to reduce the weight of your carry-on luggage.

The Bottom Line

Therefore, these are the packing tips for United Airlines flights. You must avoid the extra baggage fee by packing the right stuff. Always check the weight and dimensions of the bag before leaving for the airport.

FAQs

What is United Airlines’ carry-on baggage allowance?

United Airlines allows passengers to bring one free carry-on bag and one personal item. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and meet the size limit of 9 x 14 x 22 inches, while the personal item should fit under the seat with dimensions not exceeding 9 x 10 x 17 inches.

How much is the checked baggage fee on United Airlines?

The checked baggage fee depends on your itinerary:

- First checked bag: $35.

- Second checked bag: $45.

- The standard checked bag size limit is 62 linear inches, with a weight limit of 50 pounds for Economy Class and 70 pounds for Business or First Class.

What are the fees for overweight and oversized bags?

Overweight Bags:

- 51–70 pounds: $100 per bag.

- 71–100 pounds: $200 per bag.

Oversized Bags:

- Bags measuring 63–115 linear inches incur an additional fee of $200.

- Bags exceeding 115 linear inches are not accepted.

How can I avoid extra costs on United Airlines baggage?

- Pack Smart: Ensure your bag is within weight and size limits by using a luggage scale and measuring your bags.

- Use Compression Bags: Reduce the volume of your clothes to pack more efficiently.

- Weigh at Home: Weigh your bags beforehand to avoid surprises at the airport.

How can I maximize my personal item?

Choose a personal item that is spacious yet fits the size limits. Pack heavy or essential items in your personal item to reduce the weight of your carry-on luggage, making the most of the free allowance.

What is the importance of planning your baggage?

Proper planning ensures that you stay within the baggage weight and size limits, avoiding overweight or oversize fees. It also helps you pack efficiently, saving money and hassle during travel.

Why should you measure and weigh your bags at home?

Measuring and weighing your bags at home helps ensure they meet United Airlines’ baggage policies. This prevents unexpected fees for oversized or overweight baggage at the airport.

What’s the final takeaway for avoiding United Airlines’ baggage fees?

Packing efficiently, understanding baggage policies, and using tools like luggage scales and compression bags can help you avoid extra costs. Always verify your baggage dimensions and weight before heading to the airport for a hassle-free travel experience.