Getting hit with an unexpected baggage fee can be more than just a hassle – it can also be quite expensive. However, you can easily avoid this by doing a bit of planning ahead. By using
Save cash at check-in: can you dodge United's baggage fees?
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Do I need to pay a baggage fee?
When flying with United Airlines, planning ahead can help you save money. The airline allows customers to prepay for their checked bags. Instead of paying at the airport, you can log in up to 24 hours before your flight and save $5 per bag. For example, if you're flying economy on a domestic route, you'll pay $30 instead of the usual $35 checked bag fee. Prepaying for a second bag will cost $40 instead of $45.
On all international flights, your first checked bag is complimentary. However, a second checked bag will incur a fee, which varies depending on your destination. United's website has a baggage calculator to help you determine the cost. Generally, a second checked bag will cost $45 on domestic flights, $60 for flights to Mexico, and $100 for flights to Europe, Australia, or parts of Asia. Again, the fee is reduced by $5 if you prepay for the bag ahead of time.
What exactly is covered under the baggage fee?
United Airlines allows each economy class passenger to bring 2 items onboard – a carry-on bag and a personal item. It's essential to ensure that both items comply with the maximum size limitations to avoid the need to check them and potentially incur additional fees. The carry-on bag can be up to 9 x 14 x 22 inches while the personal item can be up to 9 x 10 x 17 inches. In addition, small musical instruments and collapsible strollers are also considered carry-on items, so you can bring those along as well.
Is there any fine print or hidden details I should be aware of?
As a basic economy passenger, there are restrictions on what you can bring on the plane. You can only bring a personal item, and a carry-on bag must be checked, which will incur a $25 fee. However, this rule doesn't apply to international flights to Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa, where a carry-on bag is complimentary.
In addition, checked bags come with their own set of rules and fees. For instance, your first checked bag to Paris will cost $70 and $45 to Rio de Janeiro. You can use the baggage calculator to get the exact pricing for your basic economy ticket.
If you frequently fly internationally, it may be worth signing up for United's loyalty program, MileagePlus. Members with status typically receive 1 or 2 free checked bags, and they also have a higher weight limit (70 pounds) compared to the standard 50-pound limit.
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