As of April 3, 2026, United Airlines is raising its baggage fees, which haven’t been altered for two years.
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Compared to other US airline baggage fees, United Airlines has historically had mid-range fees compared to other international carriers. In the past, United has charged $40 per checked bag for both international and domestic flights, plus $50 for the second.
Additionally, United Airlines has a Checked Bag Fee calculator available on its website. That makes it easy to figure out how much you owe based on what you’re bringing. You can even save $5 per bag by prepaying for luggage on the United website.
However, due to rising jet fuel costs, United Airlines is making an immediate change to manage rising operational costs.
Updates to United Airlines baggage fees as of April 3, 2026
Starting today, United Airlines has raised its baggage fee by $10 across the board. That means that checked bags for both international and domestic flights now cost $50, plus $60 for an additional second bag. The third bag is now $50 more expensive, marking the sharpest fee spike.
Here’s a quick rundown of United Airlines’ updated baggage fees:
- The first checked bag costs $50 to check in or $45 if you pay for baggage 24+ hours before your flight leaves
- The second checked bag costs $60 to check in at the airport or $55 if you prepay online 24+ hours before your flight
- The third checked bag costs $200 whether you prepay or check in your bag at the airport
There are a few exceptions to the new fees, meaning these members can still check one bag for free:
- MileagePlus Premier members
- United Chase credit card holders
- Active military members
- Travelers in premium cabins
