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United Airlines

United just increased checked bag fees. Here's how much you'll pay.

April 2, 2026, 7:48 p.m. ET

United Airlines is the latest U.S. airline to increase its bag fees amid higher fuel prices.

"United is raising first and second checked bag fees by $10 for customers traveling in the U.S., Mexico and Canada and Latin America beginning with tickets purchased Friday, April 3," the Chicago-based airline told USA TODAY in an email on April 2.

This is the first time the airline has hiked its bag fees in two years.

For checked bags paid for within 24 hours of the flight, the price for the first checked bag will increase from $40 to $50, the second bag from $50 to $60, and the third bag from $150 to $200.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 31: A United Airlines Boeing 777 takes-off from Heathrow Airport, March 31, 2026 in London, England. London Heathrow (LHR) is one of the world's busiest airports, hosting around 1,300 daily flights from over 89 airlines. (Photo by Peter Nicholls/Getty Images)

However, travelers get a discount if they prepay for their bags online in advance. The new price will go from $35 to $45, the second from $45 to $55 and the third from $150 to $200.

United Chase credit card holders, MileagePlus Premier members, active military members and those flying in premium cabins will still be able to check a bag for free, the carrier added.

The news follows JetBlue's decision to also raise its checked bag fees due to soaring oil prices from the war in Iran. The cost of the first checked bag is going from $35 to $39, with an additional $10 charge if they pay less than 24 hours before departure.

"As we experience rising operating costs, we regularly evaluate how to manage those costs while keeping base fares competitive and continuing to invest in the experience our customers value," the airline told USA TODAY in a statement. "Adjusting fees for optional services used by select customers, such as checked baggage, allows us to continue offering more competitive fares while delivering the onboard experience our customers love, including complimentary snacks and drinks, unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi and seatback entertainment screens."

Contributing: Zach Wichter, USA TODAY

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