**Does United Make You Pay for Checked Bags?**
United Airlines has a checked baggage policy that allows passengers to bring a certain number of bags on their flights, with fees applying to some travelers. For domestic flights, United enforces a fee for the first and second checked bag, while the third checked bag and any additional items come with even higher charges. Depending on the flight destination and class of service, these fees can vary, so it’s important for passengers to review the current baggage policy before booking their flights.
**Frequently Asked Questions About United’s Checked Bag Policy**
**1. What is United’s checked baggage policy for domestic flights?**
United Airlines charges fees for the first and second checked bag on domestic flights. The fee for the first checked bag is $30, while the second bag comes with a $40 fee. Any additional bags will incur even higher costs depending on the flight destination and class of service.
**2. Are there any exceptions to the checked bag fees on domestic flights?**
United MileagePlus Premier members, primary cardholders of certain United co-branded credit cards, and Star Alliance Gold members are exempt from the first and second checked bag fees on domestic flights. Additionally, active U.S. military personnel and their dependents are also allowed to check up to five bags for free.
**3. What is the checked bag policy for international flights with United Airlines?**
For international flights, United Airlines typically allows passengers to check at least one bag for free, though fees may apply for additional bags or on certain routes. The specific checked bag policy for international flights can vary depending on the itinerary, class of service, and MileagePlus membership status.
**4. How much does United charge for additional checked bags?**
After the first and second checked bags, United Airlines charges varying fees for any additional items, with costs increasing for each bag beyond the second. The specific fees for additional checked bags depend on the flight destination, travel class, and MileagePlus membership status.
**5. Can I prepay for checked bags with United Airlines?**
Yes, United Airlines allows passengers to prepay for checked bags online or through the airline’s mobile app. By prepaying for checked bags, travelers can save time and potentially enjoy discounted rates compared to paying for their bags at the airport.
**6. What are the size and weight restrictions for checked bags on United Airlines?**
United Airlines enforces standard size and weight restrictions for checked bags, typically limiting the dimensions to a maximum of 62 linear inches and the weight to 50 pounds for economy class passengers. Oversized and overweight bags may incur additional fees.
**7. Are there any items that are prohibited in checked baggage on United Airlines?**
Yes, United Airlines prohibits certain items from being packed in checked baggage, such as hazardous materials, perishable items, and valuable or fragile belongings. Passengers should review the airline’s list of prohibited items before packing their checked bags.
**8. How can I avoid checked bag fees with United Airlines?**
Travelers can avoid checked bag fees with United Airlines by qualifying for exempted status, such as being a MileagePlus Premier member, a primary cardholder of select United co-branded credit cards, or a Star Alliance Gold member. Additionally, active U.S. military personnel and their dependents are eligible for free checked bags.
**9. Can I transfer my checked baggage allowance to another passenger on my United Airlines flight?**
In most cases, United Airlines does not allow passengers to transfer their checked baggage allowance to another traveler on the same flight. Each passenger is responsible for their own checked bags and any associated fees.
**10. What should I do if my checked bag is lost or damaged on a United Airlines flight?**
If a checked bag is lost or damaged while in the care of United Airlines, passengers should immediately report the issue to the airline’s baggage service office at the airport. United has a process for filing claims and reimbursing passengers for any verified losses or damages.
**11. Does United Airlines offer complimentary checked bags for business or first class passengers?**
Yes, United Airlines typically provides complimentary checked bags for business and first class passengers, allowing them to check at least one bag for free on most flights. The specific checked bag allowance can vary based on the traveler’s class of service and MileagePlus membership status.
**12. Are there any seasonal promotions or discounts for checked bags with United Airlines?**
United Airlines occasionally offers seasonal promotions, discounts, or waived fees for checked bags as part of special offers or marketing campaigns. Passengers should check the airline’s official website or subscribe to promotional emails for the latest information on any available discounts or incentives for checked bags.
