Packing for a domestic trip should be simple—but figuring out baggage rules can sometimes feel overwhelming. United Airlines has clear guidelines, but fees and allowances depend on your ticket type and route.
To make things easier, here’s a senior-friendly breakdown of United’s domestic baggage policy—plus practical tips to save money and stress. If you’d like personal help before booking, call 877-297-0699 to speak with a United agent.
Carry-on allowance: 1 carry-on bag + 1 personal item included (except for Basic Economy).
Checked bags: Fees start at $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second.
Premium cabins: Business and First Class include 2 free checked bags.
Special needs: Seniors can request assistance for lifting and tagging bags at check-in.
💡 Visual idea: Simple icons for “Carry-on ✅ | Personal Item 🎒 | Checked Bag 💼.”
Carry-on size limit: 22” x 14” x 9” (must fit overhead).
Personal item: Purse, laptop bag, or small backpack (fits under seat).
Basic Economy restriction: Only 1 personal item—no full-size carry-on allowed.
👵 Tip for seniors: Four-wheel spinner bags are easier to maneuver through airports and reduce strain on shoulders.
First checked bag: $35 each way.
Second checked bag: $45 each way.
Additional bags: Higher surcharges apply (often $150+).
Business/First Class: Usually include 2 free checked bags.
A real-world example: A senior traveler flying from Florida to Chicago prepaid for her checked bag online, saving time at the airport and avoiding stress in line.
Over 50 lbs (23 kg): $100–$200 surcharge.
Over 70 lbs (32 kg): May not be accepted on domestic routes.
Oversized bags (over 62 linear inches): $200+ extra fee.
👴 Senior-friendly reminder: Lightweight suitcases prevent both lifting strain and costly fees.
MileagePlus Premier status: Free checked bags (varies by level).
United credit cards: Explorer and other co-branded cards include one free checked bag for the cardholder + one companion.
Prepay online: Often slightly cheaper and saves time at check-in.
Pack smart: Compression cubes or smaller bags reduce risk of overweight fees.
📞 Reminder: Call 877-297-0699 for help applying MileagePlus benefits or credit card perks before your trip.
| Bag Type | Fee (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-on | Free | Except Basic Economy |
| Personal Item | Free | Must fit under seat |
| 1st Checked Bag | $35 | Each way |
| 2nd Checked Bag | $45 | Each way |
| Business/First Class | Free (2 bags) | Up to 70 lbs each |
| Overweight (51–70 lbs) | $100–$200 | Per bag |
| Oversized (>62 in.) | $200+ | Surcharge applies |
For domestic flights, United includes a carry-on and personal item, while checked bag fees start at $35. Premium tickets, MileagePlus status, or United credit cards can save you money on baggage. With a little planning—like weighing bags at home—you can travel stress-free.
If you’d like reassurance before you book, or need senior-friendly assistance, call 877-297-0699 today.