When preparing to travel with United Airlines, one of the most important aspects to consider is your carry-on luggage. Knowing the size restrictions and packing rules does not help you avoid additional fees but also ensures a smooth experience at the airport. United Airlines, like most major carriers, has specific rules about the size and type of carry-on items passengers are allowed to bring on board. This guide provides all the essential details you need to know about United's carry-on size limits in 2025, personal item allowances, packing tips, and policy exceptions.
Standard Carry-On Size for United Airlines
As of 2025, United's carry-on size bag policy allows passengers to bring one standard carry-on bag and one personal item. The maximum size for a standard carry-on is:
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22 inches (height) x 14 inches (width) x 9 inches (depth)
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These dimensions include the handles and wheels
The bag must fit in the overhead bin above your seat. United strictly enforces this rule at gates, and non-compliant bags may need to be checked in. To avoid delays or additional charges, make sure your bag meets these dimensions before arriving at the airport.
Personal Item Policy
In addition to the carry-on bag, United permits passengers to bring one personal item. A personal item is typically smaller than a carry-on and must fit under the seat in front of you. Acceptable personal items include:
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Laptop bags
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Purses or handbags
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Small backpacks
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Briefcases
The maximum size for a personal item on United is:
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17 inches (length) x 10 inches (width) x 9 inches (depth)
If your personal item exceeds these measurements, it may be classified as a standard carry-on or be subject to gate check procedures.
Carry-On Rules for Basic Economy Tickets
One of the most notable differences in United's baggage policy applies to passengers flying on Basic Economy fares. If you're traveling on a Basic Economy ticket within the US, or between the US and Canada, Central America, or the Caribbean, your baggage allowance is more limited. In most cases, Basic Economy passengers are allowed:
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One personal item
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No standard carry-on bag
If you bring a standard carry-on bag while flying Basic Economy and do not meet certain exceptions (such as Premier status or holding a United-branded credit card), you may be required to check your bag at the gate and pay a service fee.
Exceptions to this rule apply on transatlantic and transpacific Basic Economy routes, where passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item, similar to Economy fares.
Exceptions and Special Items
United Airlines does make accommodations for certain items and scenarios, such as:
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Medical and mobility devices (eg, wheelchairs, crutches) do not count towards your carry-on allowance.
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Infants and small children : You can bring diaper bags, child safety seats, and strollers in addition to your carry-on allowance.
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Musical instruments can be carried if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.
It's recommended to review United's special baggage policies or call customer service in advance if you plan to travel with unique or oversized items.
Packing Tips for United Flights
Efficient packing is key to staying within carry-on limits while ensuring you have everything you need. Here are some useful tips:
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Use the right bag : Choose a bag that is specifically designed to meet United's size restrictions.
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Use packing cubes : These help organize your items and compress clothes to fit more efficiently.
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Limit liquids : Comply with TSA rulesliquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less and packed in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag.
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Wear your bulky items : Save space by wearing jackets, boots, or heavy clothing instead of packing them.
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Utilize your personal item : A backpack or underseat duffel bag can hold essential items like electronics, toiletries, and snacks.
What Happens if Your Bag Is Oversized?
If your bag exceeds United's carry-on size limits, you may be asked to check it at the gate. Depending on your fare type, this may come with an added fee. To prevent this, many airports have carry-on bag sizers at check-in counters and gates where you can test whether your luggage meets the requirements.
It's also important to note that even if your bag meets size requirements, it may still need to be gate-checked on very full flights due to limited overhead space. United does not charge for gate-checking carry-on bags in such cases unless your fare type restricts carry-on allowance.
International Flights and Codeshare Partners
When traveling internationally or on a flight operated by one of United's Star Alliance partners, the carry-on rules may vary slightly. While United generally applies the same size limits across its international flights, codeshare partners may have different size or weight restrictions.
Always check the policies of all airlines involved in your itinerary, especially for long-haul or multi-leg flights. Discrepancies in baggage rules can lead to confusion or added charges at connecting airports.
Conclusion
Understanding United Airlines' carry-on size rules and packing smartly can save you time, money, and stress. Always measure your bags before leaving for the airport and check for the latest updates on United's official website or app. Whether you're traveling domestically or internationally, being informed about baggage policies ensures a smoother journey from start to finish.
By following United's guidelines for carry-on and personal items, and planning your packing carefully, you'll be well-prepared for your flight without any last-minute surprises at the gate.
