Checked bags

Check your bags in just a few easy steps.

Size and weight

Checked bag

Carry-on bag sizes dimension diagram

The maximum size of a checked bag can be 30 in x 20 in x 12 in (76 cm x 51 cm x 30 cm), including handles and wheels.

Other fees apply for extra checked bags or any bags that go over these limits. Visit the oversized, overweight and extra bags section below for more info.

Baggage Fee Calculator

Depending on where and how you travel, you may have to pay to check your bag. Use our baggage fee calculator to see how much it’ll cost.

Calculate bag fees

Other fees apply for extra checked bags or any bags that go over these limits. Visit the oversized, overweight and extra bags section below for more info.

Weight limit

The weight limit for a checked bag depends on your cabin and your MileagePlus status. If they have different limits, we’ll go by the one that has the larger limit.

Weights by cabin

CabinMaximum weight per bag
United Economy®
Premium Economy®
50 pounds
(23 kilograms)
United Business®
United First®
United Polaris® business class
70 pounds
(32 kilograms)

Weights by MileagePlus status

MileagePlus statusMaximum weight per bag
Premier Silver
Premier Gold
Premier Platinum
Premier 1K®
70 pounds
(32 kilograms)
Star Alliance™ Gold
70 pounds
(32 kilograms)
in Business
50 pounds
(23 kilograms)
in Economy

Bag check process

Check your bag on timeCheck your bag on time

There is a time limit for checking bags and we can't check yours if you’re not on time. Find out your airport’s cut off time for checking bags.

Keep your claim checkKeep your claim check

Go to the airport kiosk to get a claim check for each checked bag. A claim check is like a receipt. Keep each one until you reclaim all your bags at your last stop.

Learn about connecting flightsLearn about connecting flights

If you have a connecting flight, you might need to re-check your bags between stops. Visit the connecting flights section below for more information.

Bag drop shortcut

This drop-and-go service lets you check your bags faster. First, check in and check your bag on the United app. Then drop your bag at the Bag Drop Shortcut area in the airport.

Keep in mind that the Bag Drop Shortcut is only available in some airports. Use the terminal guide on the app to find out if it’s in your airport.

Download the app

Download on the App StoreGet it on GooglePlay
Download on the App Store
Get it on GooglePlay

Bag tracking

Bag tracking is a feature of the United app that lets you see the status and location of your checked bags.

Learn more

Bag tracking

Bag tracking is a feature of the United app that lets you see the status and location of your checked bags.

Learn more

Additional info