As of October 2010, checked baggage must not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + depth); otherwise the traveler will be charged an oversized baggage fee. Should the size of a single piece of checked baggage exceed 115 linear inches, then it will not be accepted on to the flight. U.S. Military personnel and/or their dependents are allowed checked pieces of baggage up to 115 linear inches without fees.
For travelers on certain United Airlines frequent flyer programs and U.S. military personnel, the maximum weight per bag to avoid an overweight baggage fee is 70 lbs. Those travelling on the Star Alliance Gold, premier Executive, 1K and Global Services programs are entitled to check bags up to this weight without any fees. These travelers are permitted three checked bags without any fees, while others are permitted two. Other travelers must keep their individual pieces of checked baggage under 50 lbs. to avoid fees. Any bag over 100 lbs. will not be accepted as checked baggage.
For travel between Canada, the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico and the United States, overweight or excess baggage will result in fines of $100 per piece. The United Airlines website lists the various fees for oversized, overweight and excess baggage by country of departure.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits many dangerous items from being brought on to flights, such as weapons and sharp objects, whether in checked or carry-on baggage. Travelers should consult the TSA website for a complete list of prohibited items (see References).
