Buy Extra Baggage
Updated Apr 25, 2026
Steps
- Go to united.com and click 'My Trips' (or visit united.com/en/us/mytrips.html)
- Enter your confirmation number and last name to access your booking
- Select the 'Add bags' or 'Baggage' option for your itinerary
- Choose the number of bags to add and review the applicable fees
- Complete payment with a credit or debit card
- Receive confirmation of your prepaid baggage allowance
Prices
Extra checked bags
Fees for first, second, and additional checked bags vary by route and fare class. Prices shown are one-way, prepaid (more than 24 hours before departure) for domestic US, Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean routes as of April 2026.
| Label | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First bag (domestic/Canada/Mexico/Caribbean) | $45 |
|
| Second bag (domestic/Canada/Mexico/Caribbean) | $55 |
|
| Third and additional bags (domestic) | $200 |
|
Overweight bags
Standard weight limit is 50 lbs (23 kg) for economy fares. Premium cabin and elite status passengers get 70 lbs (32 kg) allowance.
| Label | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 51-70 lbs (24-32 kg) | $100-$300 |
|
| 71-100 lbs (33-46 kg) | $200-$400 |
|
Oversized bags
Standard size limit is 62 linear inches (157 cm). Oversized fees apply to bags from 63 to 115 linear inches.
| Label | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 63-115 linear inches (160-292 cm) | $200 |
|
Airport or late purchase surcharge
Passengers who wait to pay for bags at the airport or within 24 hours of departure pay higher fees.
| Label | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First bag at airport (domestic) | $50 |
|
| Second bag at airport (domestic) | $60 |
|
FAQ
Can I buy extra baggage online after booking?
Yes. You can add bags anytime after booking through My Trips on united.com or the United app. Prepaying more than 24 hours before departure saves $5 per bag on domestic, Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean routes.
Where can I purchase extra baggage?
Extra baggage can be purchased through My Trips on united.com, the United mobile app, during online check-in, at a United self-service kiosk, or at the airport ticket counter.
When is the best time to buy extra baggage?
Purchase more than 24 hours before your flight to get the prepaid discount ($5 off per bag on eligible routes). Fees increase within 24 hours of departure and at the airport.
How does United's baggage pricing work?
Baggage fees are charged per bag, one-way, and vary by route, fare class (Basic Economy vs. Economy vs. premium cabins), and number of bags. The first two bags on domestic routes cost $45/$55 prepaid. Third and additional bags cost $200. International routes may include free bags depending on destination and fare class.
Is it cheaper to buy baggage online vs. at the airport?
Yes. Prepaying online more than 24 hours before departure saves $5 per bag on domestic, Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean routes. First bag: $45 prepaid vs. $50 at airport. Second bag: $55 prepaid vs. $60 at airport.
What are the size and weight limits for checked bags?
Standard checked bags must not exceed 62 linear inches (157 cm) and 50 lbs (23 kg). Premium cabin passengers and elite status members can check bags up to 70 lbs (32 kg). Bags over 100 lbs or 115 linear inches are not accepted.
What happens if my bag is both overweight and oversized?
Each charge applies separately. For example, a bag that is both overweight (51-70 lbs) and oversized (63-115 linear inches) would incur both the overweight fee ($100-$300) and the oversized fee ($200).
Do baggage fees apply the same on partner airline flights?
Baggage allowances and fees may differ on flights operated by partner airlines or on codeshare flights. Check your specific itinerary for applicable rules. Some routes have temporary or permanent excess baggage embargoes.
What payment methods are accepted for baggage fees?
United accepts major credit and debit cards for prepaid baggage purchases online and through the app. At the airport, payment can be made at ticket counters and self-service kiosks.
Who gets free or discounted baggage on United?
Free checked bags are available for: Premium Plus, Business, and First class passengers (2 free bags); MileagePlus elite status members; Star Alliance Gold members; active duty and retired US military personnel (2 free bags); United co-branded credit card holders (at least 1 free bag when flight is paid with the card). Basic Economy passengers on trans-Atlantic, trans-Pacific, Canada, and South America routes also get full carry-on allowance.