Traveling can be stressful, especially if you’re not sure about the rules for your carry-on bag. Understanding the united carry on bag size is key to avoiding extra fees and headaches at the airport. Let’s make sure you know everything about the size limits so you can travel without any issues.
Many travelers pay unexpected baggage fees just because their bags are too big. You don’t want to be one of them, right? Let’s go over all the details you need to know to keep your trip smooth and stress-free.
What Is the United Carry-On Bag Size?
So, what is the united carry on bag size? For most flights, United Airlines allows you to bring one carry-on and one personal item for free. But here’s the catch: your carry-on must fit in the overhead bin. To do this, it must be no larger than 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (23 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm). That’s not just the bag—make sure to include the handle and wheels when you measure it.
Your personal item, like a backpack or purse, needs to fit under the seat in front of you. The size for that is 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm). These measurements are pretty specific, so it’s a good idea to double-check your bag before you head to the airport. No one wants to deal with last-minute surprises at the gate!
What Happens If Your Bag Is Too Big?
Nobody likes unexpected fees, especially when you’re about to board a plane. But what happens if your carry-on is too big?
United Airlines will make you check your bag at the gate. If that happens, you’ll pay the standard checked bag fee plus an extra $25 gate-check fee. That’s money you could easily avoid by knowing the united carry on bag size ahead of time.
Let’s look at how the whole gate-check process works.
| Bag Type | Placement | Extra Fees | Key Info |
| Carry-on within size limits | Overhead bin | No extra fees | Be sure to follow exact measurements. |
| Oversized carry-on | Gate-checked | Standard fees apply | You’ll pay an extra $25 on top of the fee. |
| Personal item | Under the seat | No extra fees | Must fit under the seat in front of you. |
| Basic Economy | Gate-checked | Standard fees apply | Only one personal item is allowed. |
| Gate-check for small planes | Gate-checked | No extra fees | Happens mostly on smaller United Express flights. |
If your carry-on bag meets the size requirements, it goes in the overhead bin, no problem. But if it’s too large, it’ll be checked at the gate, which means you might have to wait at baggage claim to pick it up when you land.
Can You Bring Extra Items for Free?
Here’s another question I get asked a lot: What extra items can I bring on board for free? The good news is, United lets you carry a few additional items beyond your carry-on and personal item without any extra charge.
Here’s what you can bring:
- A jacket or coat
- An umbrella
- Something to read, like a book or magazine
- Food or drinks purchased at the airport
- Mobility devices (e.g., a wheelchair or cane)
- A diaper bag and breast pump (even if you’re not traveling with your baby)
- A child safety seat or stroller
- A camera or camera equipment
These items don’t count against your carry-on limit, which can be a huge help if you’re already tight on space.
What About Special Items?
Some items need special handling. So, how do you pack special items like musical instruments, liquids, or medications when flying United? Well, United Airlines has specific rules for these. While they still need to fit within the united carry on bag size, there are a few more things to keep in mind.
- Musical instruments: If your instrument fits in the overhead bin, you can bring it as your carry-on. If not, it needs to be checked.
- Smart bags: Smart bags with lithium batteries must have the battery removed before being placed in the overhead bin.
- Liquids, gels, and sprays: Remember TSA’s 3-1-1 rule—each liquid must be in a 3.4-ounce container, placed in a one-quart-sized bag, and you’re allowed one bag per person.
- Medications and vapes: You can bring these, but they need to follow TSA regulations.
Always check the TSA guidelines before packing anything unusual in your carry-on to avoid any surprises at the security checkpoint.
Basic Economy: What’s Different?
If you’re flying Basic Economy, the rules are even stricter. So, can you bring a carry-on bag when flying Basic Economy with United? For most flights, no. Basic Economy passengers can only bring one personal item that fits under the seat. If you try to bring a larger carry-on, you’ll have to check it and pay the checked bag fee, plus an additional $25 gate-handling fee.
There are a few exceptions. If you’re flying across the Atlantic, Pacific, or to South America, you’re allowed one carry-on bag. Also, if you’re a MileagePlus Premier member or hold a MileagePlus credit card, you can bring a carry-on for free, even in Basic Economy.
Flying Basic Economy can be a great way to save money, but make sure you understand the luggage rules so you don’t get hit with extra fees at the airport.
Packing Tips for United Airlines Carry-On
Want to make sure you fit everything you need into your carry-on? Here are some pro packing tips for maximizing space and staying within the united carry on bag size.
- Choose the right bag: Make sure your carry-on meets United’s size requirements. There are lots of great bags designed specifically to fit within airline limits.
- Use packing cubes: These are a game changer! Packing cubes help you stay organized and compress your clothes so you can fit more into your bag.
- Wear your bulkiest items: If you’re traveling with a heavy jacket or boots, wear them on the plane to free up space in your carry-on.
- Roll your clothes: Instead of folding, try rolling your clothes. It saves space and prevents wrinkles.
- Use the space inside your shoes: Shoes take up a lot of room, so stuff them with socks, chargers, or other small items.
These tips will help you pack smart, so you can avoid paying extra to check a bag at the gate.
Final Thoughts
To travel smart, it’s important to understand the united carry on bag size rules. Following the size limits will help you avoid extra fees and make your trip smoother.
Make sure to measure your bag, double-check the restrictions for Basic Economy, and pack strategically to maximize space. If you need help or have questions about your upcoming trip, consult the experts at Travelopolicy. We’re here to help you travel without any hassles, from packing your bags to planning your next adventure!
FAQs
What happens if my carry-on is too big?
If your carry-on exceeds the size limit, it must be gate-checked. You’ll be charged the standard checked bag fee plus an additional $25 gate-check fee.
Can I bring a personal item in addition to my carry-on?
Yes, United allows one personal item for free, such as a purse or small backpack, that must fit under the seat in front of you.
Are there exceptions for Basic Economy passengers?
Basic Economy passengers are only allowed one personal item. A carry-on will require checking and incurs additional fees unless you’re flying on certain international routes.
What extra items can I bring for free on United Airlines?
Items like jackets, umbrellas, reading material, and mobility devices do not count towards your carry-on limit and are allowed on board for free.
Can I bring liquids in my carry-on bag?
Yes, liquids must follow TSA’s 3-1-1 rule: 3.4-ounce containers in a one-quart bag, with one bag allowed per person.
