United Airlines Carry-On Bag Sizes, Rules and Restrictions

- UPDATED: April 26, 2021 |

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If you plan to bring a carry-on bag and personal item with you on a United Airlines flight, make sure you know the rules and restrictions ahead of time so you can plan accordingly.

Travelers already face plenty of hassles at the airport, from long check-in lines to even longer security lines (if you don’t have TSA Precheck) to tiny cramped economy seats.

Today we’re going to discuss how you can avoid some of these obstacles when flying United with a carry-on and personal item.

Table of contents

United Carry-on and Personal Item Requirements
United Express Flights
United Basic Economy Carry-on Rules
- Avoiding Basic Economy Carry-on Fees
- How to Handle Basic Economy Bag Issues
Final Thoughts

Table of Contents

United Carry-on and Personal Item Requirements
United Express Flights
United Basic Economy Carry-on Rules
- Avoiding Basic Economy Carry-on Fees
- How to Handle Basic Economy Bag Issues
Final Thoughts

United Carry-on and Personal Item Requirements

Both carry-on bags and personal items are required to meet certain standards that are set by United. You may bring 1 of each with you when flying United (excluding Basic Economy on a non-transatlantic flight), but the requirements for each are different.

Carry-on Dimensions

When flying United, carry-on bags can be no larger than 9 inches X 14 inches X 22 inches (22 cm X 35 cm X 56 cm). These dimensions include wheels and handles, so make sure you include those in your measurements.

If your carry-on bag does not meet the dimension requirements, you could be forced to check your bag and pay United’s standard checked baggage fee.

Hot Tip: Check out the best ways to avoid checked baggage fees on United.

Unlike checked baggage, carry-ons don’t have to meet certain weight requirements to avoid an extra fee.

Personal Item Dimensions

Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Common items include backpacks, laptop bags, and purses. These bags can be no larger than 9 inches X 10 inches X 17 inches (22 cm X 25 cm X 43 cm).

Like carry-on bags, personal items do not have to meet a weight requirement.

Additional Items

In addition to a carry-on bag and a personal item, passengers are permitted to bring some other items on board. These items include:

Additional Items Allowed on Board
Jacket	Assistive devices (cane, crutches, etc.)
Umbrella	FAA-approved child restraint system or safety seat
Food from the airport	Diaper bag
Merchandise from the airport	Breast pump
Reading material	Pet carrier (service charges will apply)

Musical instruments such as guitars, violins, and other small instruments are permitted on board if the instrument is packed in a hard case and space is available in an overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.

If you choose to bring a musical instrument with you, it will count as part of your carry-on allowance, so keep that in mind when you’re packing.

What Items Are Allowed in Your Carry-on Bag?

The items allowed in your carry-on baggage are regulated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The TSA allows liquids, gels, and aerosols to be packed in your carry-on bag, provided they are in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 mL).

United Express Flights

United Express flights are operated by regional airline partners that use smaller aircraft. As such, the overhead compartments have less space than on United’s mainline aircraft. Roller bags and larger carry-on bags often won’t fit in these overhead bins at all.

If this is the case, you may need to gate check your carry-on before boarding. These gate-checked bags will not be sent to the baggage claim area when exiting the airport. Instead, they will be brought to you just outside the aircraft, often in the jet bridge.

If you are forced to gate check your carry-on bag, any personal vaporizers and e-cigarettes should be removed and stored in your personal item onboard.

You will not incur a fee to gate check your carry-on in this case.

United Basic Economy Carry-on Rules

United has introduced basic economy fares to compete with low-cost carriers such as Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines.

during the booking process, you can pay extra for an economy ticket that comes with a few more benefits. If you choose to keep your basic economy ticket, you won’t be allowed to bring a carry-on bag on board at all (unless you’re flying on a Transatlantic route).

You will still have the option to bring a personal item with you that can be stored under the seat in front of you, but that’s it.

If you go to the gate with a carry-on and you’re sitting in basic economy, you will be required to check the bag and pay the applicable checked bag fees plus a $25 gate handling fee.

Avoiding Basic Economy Carry-on Fees

If you are stuck with a basic economy ticket, there are 2 ways to ensure you can bring a full-size carry-on bag on board with you. One is easy, while the other is expensive and time-consuming.

If you pay for your basic economy ticket using a co-branded United credit card, you can bring your carry-on bag with you at no extra charge.

In addition to our two favorite cards above, a free carry-on bag is also included with these credit cards:

MileagePlus Club Card
MileagePlus Club Business Card
Presidential PlusSM Card
Presidential Plus Business Card
MileagePlus Awards Card
Ixe United Universe Card
Ixe United Card

The standard carry-on bag benefit also extends to your travel companions if they are traveling on the same reservation (and space permits).

The second way to avoid a fee is to have elite status with United or Star Alliance. If you hold MileagePlus Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, Premier 1K, or are a Star Alliance™ Gold member, you are permitted to bring a standard carry-on bag.

Earning status requires a high level of spending, so this is mostly applicable to business travelers who work for companies that pay for their travel.

Hot Tip: Use a United MileagePlus credit card from Chase if you have to purchase basic economy tickets so you can bring a carry-on bag with you.

How to Handle Basic Economy Bag Issues

United baggage fees — With a little planning, you can avoid or offset baggage fees even when flying basic economy.

So if you don’t hold elite status with United, what’s the best way to ensure you can bring your carry-on bag for free?

First, if you really want a carry-on with you so you can jet off the plane to a meeting or catch a train, use one of the co-branded United cards to book your flight. This is the easiest way to ensure you can bring both your personal item and carry-on on board even with a basic economy ticket.

If you don’t have one of the co-branded cards, don’t try to sneak a carry-on bag onboard—it’s unlikely to work. When they stop you, you’ll be on the hook for the standard checked bag fee of $30 plus the additional $25 gate handling fee.

Rather than going through this hassle and paying double, plan ahead by putting everything you can in a checked bag and only keeping essentials such as medicines in your personal item. By checking the bag at the United check-in desk, you’ll still have to cover the checked bag fee—but it will be half of what you’d pay at the gate.

Finally, if you’re going to check a bag, pay for it with a credit card where you can use your points to pay for charges on your statement!

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card - This no annual fee card comes with a 20,000 bonus mile offer after spending $500 in the first 3 months. When you use your card for travel purchases (e.g. baggage fees), use your miles to pay off all, or part of, your statement balance! We've highlighted 30+ benefits of the card.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card - The "big brother" card to the VentureOne with 75,000 miles if you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. This card is full of benefits and perks and you can redeem your miles on travel or transfer your miles to over 15+ travel loyalty programs.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card - The newest card in the Capital One lineup with a welcome offer of 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening. Not only does the card come with up to $300 in statement credits when booking through Capital One Travel, you'll also get get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary.

Earn unlimited 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel, plus unlimited 2x miles on all other purchases.

While you might have a carry-on bag, using one of these cards can offset any extra cost you will be charged. Keep in mind that to use an American Express airline fee credit on checked bags with United, you must designate United as your selected airline before making the purchase.

Final Thoughts

If you book a ticket in first class, business class, or economy class, carry-on baggage and personal items won’t be much of a worry for you. Just make sure they fit the required dimensions.

It’s when you’re stuck in basic economy that you need to consider your needs. You’re likely going to have to check a bag if you want to bring anything more than a personal item, so planning ahead is advisable. Fortunately, you can use any of several credit cards to offset the checked baggage fees.

This is just another hassle to flying basic economy, but with the right information in hand you can at least make the best of a frustrating situation.

Featured Image Credit: United Airlines

Frequently asked questions

Does United allow you to bring a carry-on bag for Basic Economy fares?

No, if you’ve booked a Basic Economy fare you will have to pay extra for a carry-on bag.

What are the United carry-on dimensions?

The United carry-on dimensions are 9 inches X 14 inches X 22 inches (22 cm X 35 cm X 56 cm).

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128 comments

JoAnn Sweeney August 13, 2018
Can I take my c-pap machine in my carry on bag?
Reply
- Erin Miller August 15, 2018
  Hi JoAnn, you can find United’s policy on CPAP machines here: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/special-needs/disabilities/customer-ventilators.html
  It states the following but be sure to visit the page for additional details:
  “Portable electronic personal ventilators, respirators and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines may be carried and used on board United flights if it can be verified by a manufacturers’ label or otherwise that the units meet applicable FAA requirements.
  A forty-eight (48) hour minimum advance notification to the Accessibility Desk (1-800-228-2744) is required for customers using a ventilator, respirator or CPAP machine on board.”
  Reply
- Lou Ann Fischer May 16, 2021
  Can I take my gels liquids etc in a gallon zip lock instead of a quart size? Or have more than one quart size ziplock in my carry on?
  Reply
  - Jarrod West May 17, 2021
    Hi Lou Ann,
    According to the TSA, you are only allowed to bring one quart-sized bag of liquids.
    Reply
Virginia Mims August 25, 2018
Will I be able to carry on a garment bag?
Reply
- Erin Miller August 26, 2018
  Hi Virginia – United Airlines does not specifically state whether or not you can carry on a garment bag in their listed online policies. I think it would partially depend on whether you are taking the garment bag in place of your carry on/personal item or in addition to your carry on/personal item.
  It’s not a written policy but some airlines, as an act of customer satisfaction, will overlook taking a garment bag in addition to your carry-on/personal item and let you hang it at the front of the plane. Unless of course, there is no room to hang it there which can happen on some occasions (depending on the model of the plane).
  I actually called United Customer service this morning in order to ask them your question. The customer service representative I spoke with told me that YES, you are allowed to bring on a garment bag as a personal item in addition to your carry on bag. To clarify further, I asked if the garment bag would then replace the standard personal item (a purse or backpack) and the rep said that no, a purse or backpack would still be allowed in addition to the garment bag. I then asked if there was anything the customer would have to do to ensure this would not be an issue when flying and the representative stated that no, you would not have to do anything special, this is their standard rule and should not be an issue.
  That being said, of course, I must state my disclaimer here, that neither myself nor Upgraded Points should be held liable if you experience a different result once you board your flight. While United’s rep stated it was fine, I wouldn’t put it past an airline to go back on a policy (it wouldn’t be the first time) so it’s basically an “at your own risk” kind of scenario.
  Hope this helps!
  Reply
Laura Burgener August 30, 2018
I ordered bags that were advertised as carry on but when I measured them today the width is just a hair over the 14 inch limit. Is United a bit flexible in this situation? It is a hard case bag. I don’t want any surprises at the gate!
Reply
- Alex Miller August 30, 2018
  Hey Laura – Unfortunately I can’t say definitively if they’ll be cool with it or not. “Technically” it is over and if they asked you to place it in the measurement container it would likely fail (being a hard case). I guess the question to ask yourself is “Would it be a nightmare if you had to check the bag?”. “Will there be valuables etc in the bag that cannot be checked under any circumstance?”. If “yes” then maybe it’s not worth the risk? Gut-feel is that you would be OK as they are pretty relaxed in my experience, but it’s totally up to you.
  Reply
Morgan McKay October 6, 2018
What the rules on wearing a fanny pack and bringing a small backpack for your personal items? Can only one be okay or is a fanny pack considered appearal since I will have it around my waist at all times? Also I have a small suitcase than can fit overhead.
Reply
- Stephen Au October 8, 2018
  Hi Morgan, in theory, a fanny pack is not a personal item if you “keep it worn on you at all times during the flight” because a personal item is supposed to be under the seat in front of you. However, the gate agent will determine whether or not it’s a personal item. It all depends on who you get at the gate.
  Reply
  - Ira A Fazel December 8, 2019
    I’m an Artist. Can I bring my artist materials bag which contains pens, pencils, and a pencil sharpener on board?
    Reply
    - Katie Seemann December 9, 2019
      Hi Ira,
      Those items shouldn’t be a problem to bring on board.
      Reply
- Caesar Lopez November 11, 2019
  Im traveling with a sleeping bag and want to know if I need to pay for it or will it be free
  Reply
  - Catherine Luther November 12, 2019
    Hi Ceasar,
    A sleeping bag would be considered an individual item if you’re carrying this separately from any baggage. As long as it adheres to the maximum size dimensions of a personal item or standard carry-on then you could take this but you will need to consider your fare type. Economy Basic includes a personal item only (except on Transatlantic flights).
    Reply
  - Shawn December 14, 2019
    If I have a basic economy ticket and cannot bring a carry on aboard, what is the size of backpack you can bring that would be considered a personal item?
    Reply
    - Jarrod West December 14, 2019
      Hi Shawn,
      You can bring a backpack as a personal item and it must fit underneath the seat in front of you.
      Reply
Rita johnston October 23, 2018
Can i check a 24 x. 36 glass framed picture on the plane. How should it be packed ie bubble wrap and tape?
Reply
- Erin Miller October 23, 2018
  Hi Rita, checking anything fragile is VERY risky. Especially because United does not recommend you do so and is not liable if the item gets damaged (see their policy on highly fragile/perishable items here). It is better if you take this as a carry-on – however since it is larger than United’s carry-on restrictions (9x14x22), you will likely have to purchase an extra ticket for it. A ridiculous expense but may be worth it to you for the picture to arrive undamaged (see this policy here).
  Alternatively, you can call United’s customer service at 1-800-864-8331 and inquire as to what they recommend.
  The best practice when buying larger, fragile items is to have the merchant pack and ship it for you. It may cost a pretty penny but it will certainly be cheaper than purchasing another airline ticket for the item and it will usually be guaranteed to get there in one piece.
  Reply
Grace Kaehler January 3, 2019
I have a soft leather carry-on which is the correct dimensions, but the leather handles would make it taller. However, they fold over because they are not rigid. Would that be okay for under the seat?
Thank you.
Reply
- Stephen Au January 4, 2019
  Hey Grace,
  It should be fine. If you have a ticket that covers a carry-on, you can put it in the overhead bins. You don’t need to put it under the seat! Also, there’s not much enforcement with sizes the under the seat. Many people bring backpacks or other items that they put under the seat. Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Lam Huynh January 25, 2019
By taking the battery out to carry it with my personal item, can I put my lap-top in my checked-in luggage ?
Reply
- Catherine Luther January 27, 2019
  Hi Lam,
  There are currently no rules in place banning laptops from being packed in checked baggage, but the TSA recommends that you transport them in your carry-on. Baggage handlers are not known for their gentle touch so your laptop could easily be damaged then or even during the flight with the low temperatures that hold compartments reach. Hold baggage is also more likely to go missing than your carry-on item – another reason to not pack any valuable items in there. But if you do, be sure to check your insurance would cover you for the loss. Hope that helps!
  Reply
- Gordon May 20, 2019
  United somehow has gotten it in their head that laptops with Lithium Ion batteries are not allowed in checked baggage. While their policy online aligns with TSA regulations, their agents are trained to tell travelers that laptops cannot be checked. I have forced a rep to take my checked bag with a laptop by having them call the TSA folks. To her surprise she was told that there was no problem with it, and so they took it. I complained to corporate but all they did was send me some miles, not change their incorrect training. It’s kinda hilarious.
  The official rules are that Li-Ion batteries may be checked as long as the battery is 100 Watt-hours or less and it is installed in a device; loose Li-Ion batteries may not be checked.
  Reply
  - Catherine Luther May 22, 2019
    Hi Gordon, thanks for sharing your experience with us. It is odd that United’s staff training does not align with the information they present on their website. Let’s hope they rectify this soon.
    Reply
Kimberly February 10, 2019
Can I carry on two personal items with a basic economy ticket? Both fit under my seat.
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton February 10, 2019
  Hi Kimberly! You can only carry on one item free of charge with a basic economy ticket.
  Reply
Michael March 1, 2019
What About Fins? Going to belize and they will not fit in my carry on but are thin and flat and would fit on top of a carry on without any issue.
Reply
- James Larounis March 3, 2019
  Hi Michael. I would recommend not taking this aboard alone, without being in some sort of carrying case or bag. If you’ve already got a carry on, then the fins will more likely be larger than a personal item and would need to be checked – in this case, I’d recommend getting a hard sided case or other protective covering so you can check your fins without any potential damage, or check your roller carry on bag.
  Reply
Linda March 24, 2019
I just checked on flights via United Express from North Bend, Oregon to San Francisco, a flight I have taken twice before. There was a symbol for no carry-on being included, and a price of $60 each way if I wanted to bring one onboard. Yikes! Their smaller plane usually has really small overheads, so they stow the bag underneath the plane and I retrieve it on the tarmac when we land, but there was never a fee, and their website lists $39 as being the checked bag fee. I’m confused.
Reply
- Catherine Luther March 25, 2019
  Hi Linda,
  United’s controversial carry-on bag ban came into force July 2018 for its Basic Economy fares, in line with American Airlines’ policy and to compete with low-cost carriers. Whereas American recognised the limitations of this fare for passengers and revoked the rule, United are still holding strong only allowing passengers to bring a personal item for free. They do say that the fare price should be cheaper as a result but $60 each way is a pretty hefty fee for a carry-on bag! They’re hoping passengers will pay extra for the convenience of avoiding baggage reclaim. You might be better just booking a checked bag – at least you’ll get a higher allowance.
  Thanks
  Catherine
  Reply
Patty April 3, 2019
What is the weight of a checked bag and the charge?
Reply
- Catherine Luther April 4, 2019
  Hi Patty,
  All checked bags with United must adhere to a max weight of 50lb for all Economy and Premium Plus fares and 70lbs for Business and First Class fares. All bags must also adhere to max linear dimensions of 62 inches. For domestic flights or to Canada, then the first checked bag is $30, and a second bag is $40. If you’re flying to any other destinations or traveling in a different cabin, then you can view allowances and other baggage charges in our dedicated article.
  Reply
Cindy April 13, 2019
Hi! I want to buy one of the discounted Samsonite small wheeled underseat bags as discovered through the United website however I see that the dimensions are just a very small amount above the denoted dimensions for a personal item; would I still be able to use this as a personal item?
Reply
- Catherine Luther April 14, 2019
  Hi Cindy,
  As with any carry-on or personal item for any airline, there are never any assurances that a bag exceeding the maximum dimensions will be accepted. Even if United are advertising a bag on their website, the check-in or gate crew likely wouldn’t take that into consideration in the moment. I’m sure 9 times out of 10 it’s fine, but you must be prepared to take the risk of paying a fee if they do declare it oversized.
  Reply
Michelle May 16, 2019
Are there any wheeled cases or bags anywhere that do fit United’s personal item dimensions to fit underseat….help????
Reply
- Catherine Luther May 16, 2019
  Hi Michelle,
  Unfortunately I think you will struggle to find any wheeled cases that would meet United’s personal item restrictions. You would be better off with a small duffel bag or backpack that is soft enough to compress under the seat, that meets the airlines’ requirements.
  Reply
Carolyn Dos May 22, 2019
I have a very small Anker external battery power core for my cell phone. It is slightly smaller than a deck of cards. I cannot find what kind of battery (lithium) anywhere in the instructions and if it can be taken on board in a carry-on bag. Instructions are vague for these type of power cores and TSA differs from United? Can you please help me figure if I can or can not take it with me? I leave for my flight on Thursday, May 23. Thank you!
Reply
- Erin Miller May 22, 2019
  Hi Carolyn, we would just be researching United’s website and relaying the info to you here. But, since we aren’t United, we wouldn’t be certain our answer is 100% correct. We **THINK** you would be fine, but what we suggest (since this is a time-sensitive issue) is that you call United’s Customer Service and inquire with them directly. This will get you the most accurate answer: 1-800-864-8331 from the US.
  Reply
Amber June 10, 2019
Would I be able to bring 2 books if they go in my personal bag?
Reply
- Catherine Luther June 10, 2019
  Hi Amber,
  There are no restrictions on bringing books in your personal item provided the bag does not exceed the size allowance of 9 inches X 10 inches X 17 inches.
  Reply
Irma July 3, 2019
Can I bring a pen in my purse?
Reply
- Erin Miller July 3, 2019
  Hey Irma, it depends on what kind of “pen” you’re talking about.
  This is the portion of United’s policy regarding e-Cigarettes: “Electronic cigarettes and personal vaporizers are not accepted in checked or gate-checked baggage. These items may be stowed in carry-on baggage or on your person during travel, however, the use and charging of e-cigarettes and personal vaporizers is prohibited onboard all United flights and in United ClubSM locations.”
  Reply
  - Todd Roberson March 26, 2021
    Bringing full mod vape and ejuice.
    Reply
Milla July 8, 2019
If I book an economy flight using miles + fee (cost for the flight I’m looking at is 52k points + $141.33) and pay the fee with a United Explorer card, does that allow me to bring a carry-on and a personal item?
Reply
- Catherine Luther July 9, 2019
  Hi Milla,
  This depends on the type of Economy ticket and destination. If this is a standard Economy fare then a personal item and standard carry-on is included. If this is a an Economy Basic fare then only a personal item is included (unless the route is a transatlantic flight.)
  Reply
Debra Saunders July 14, 2019
Hello, I have a small tote bag that match my suitcase. Can I use that as a personal bag under seat…
Reply
- Catherine Luther July 15, 2019
  Hi Debra,
  A personal item must not exceed 9 inches X 10 inches X 17 inches (22 cm X 25 cm X 43 cm) so as long as your tote bag adheres to these measurements this would be fine. This is also assuming that you are not traveling on an Economy Basic ticket (where only 1 personal item is permitted if not traveling on a transatlantic flight.)
  Reply
LeeAnne Jensen July 30, 2019
I had a heart attack last year so now I am on a boat load of medications that I put in pill containers so I have everything I take a day in one place. Am I going to have problems with having daily pill containers with me with pills in it? I will need a whole suitcase for the meds I am taking if they have to be in the RX bottles.
Thanks for your help.
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton July 30, 2019
  Hi LeeAnne. If you are traveling domestically, it should not be a problem. Internationally, you are safer carrying the pills in their original prescription containers.
  Reply
Carolyn August 13, 2019
My husband and I have purchased a basic economy ticket for this Friday. After reading some of the above information on your site, I have a question. The reservation was made (for two) and now I question can we both bring a carry-on to go under our seats without a charge? Thank you.
Carolyn
Reply
- Jarrod West August 13, 2019
  Hi Carolyn,
  Basic economy tickets with United do not include carry-on baggage. The only thing you may bring, without an additional fee, is a personal item like a purse or small backpack.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Karen August 16, 2019
Can I bring a poster rube as a personal item?
Reply
- Jarrod West August 16, 2019
  Hi Karen,
  You may as long as it fits underneath the seat in front of you.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
john Hess August 21, 2019
Can I take a disposable razor on the plane? It will be carry on.
Reply
- Jarrod West August 21, 2019
  Hi John,
  Yes, you can bring a disposable razor in your carry-on. Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Jules August 24, 2019
A real question. Do they allow vibrators such as wands (over 7inches) in carry-on luggage? (No batteries)
Reply
- Jarrod West August 25, 2019
  Hi Jules,
  Yes, that will be fine to bring in your carry-on luggage.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
william ackerman August 26, 2019
Can I bring a defibrillator in my carry on bag. Small AED
Reply
- Jarrod West August 26, 2019
  Hi William,
  Yes, you can bring your defibrillator. Thanks for reading!
  Reply
  - Sasha Duke September 7, 2019
    If it states no carry on bag, only 1 personal item. Can you have a carry on with you and just check it at the gate? (boarding the plane)
    Reply
    - Catherine Luther September 8, 2019
      Hi Sasha,
      You can but you will pay extra to do this. You’ll be charged the applicable checked bag fee for your route plus a $25 gate handling fee.
      Reply
Tillie August 27, 2019
You state a fanny pack is ok in addition to a personal item. What about a small purse across body that is on me at all times.
Reply
- Catherine Luther August 28, 2019
  Hi Tillie,
  Similar to the answer regarding the fanny pack, it will be down to the gate agent to determine whether they consider this exempt from your personal item allowance. If it’s discrete, then chances are it would be ok, but you would need to be prepared to pack this in your personal item if requested.
  Reply
Larisa August 30, 2019
Hi,
I have a Basic Economy trip from Berlin to Seattle. It contains two flights Berlin-New York and New York-Seattle. The ticket itself says I can bring one full size carry-on bag (22 x 35 x 56cm) plus one personal item (shoulder bag). I am going to have only one carry-on bag.
However, I am worried about the New York-Seattle part because it is not transatlantic itself – will I have any problems because of the bigger bag? Or the transatlantic rule is applicable for the whole trip not separate flights?
Reply
- Catherine Luther August 31, 2019
  Hi Larisa,
  I believe the Basic Economy carry-on restriction applies to the domestic leg, regardless of if you’re connecting to/from an international flight. As we’re not United, we can’t confirm this for you 100% so you might want to give them a call to check.
  Reply
- Dena March 7, 2022
  I have this same question for Edinburgh->NY->SFO. Did you end up having to check your carry-on for the domestic portion?
  Reply
Alison Browne September 15, 2019
Hi. I have a basic economy flight from London Heathrow to Lax. Do I get a carry on baggage as well or just personal item. Thank you
Reply
- Catherine Luther September 16, 2019
  Hi Alison,
  Yes, on trans-Atlantic flights your carry-on baggage allowance is the same as a standard economy ticket (carry-on + personal item).
  Reply
Melissa September 27, 2019
I’m traveling back with a painting that would like to take as a carry on. It’s 2ft by 3ft. Do you think I will have to check it or will it be allowed?
Reply
- Jarrod West September 28, 2019
  Hi Melissa,
  You will likely be required to check it since it is past the dimensions that United allows for their carry-on items.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Shelly September 30, 2019
I have a nebulizer to carry-on, and I also have a duffle bag with all of my service dogs equipment in it, and a backpack is that considered too many products to carry on?
Reply
- Jarrod West October 3, 2019
  Hi Shelly,
  United usually only allows 1 personal item and 1 carry-on item. In this case, they would likely require you to check your duffle bag or backpack. I’d reach out to United directly though and see if any accommodations can be since one of your items is a nebulizer, and the other is for your service animal.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Jon October 15, 2019
We are travelling Heathrow to LA via Frankfurt outward and Toronto rtn. UA flights operated by Lufthansa outward and Air Canada rtn. We are basic economy.
Are we allowed an 8kg carry on bag each on all legs of this journey? Do the rules of United Airlines or the actual carrier apply? Does the transatlantic rules of basic economy ( ie allowing an 8kg carry-on bag) apply equally to the London Frankfurt and LAX to Toronto non-transatlantic legs too?
Reply
- Catherine Luther October 17, 2019
  Hi Jon,
  When it comes to carry-on, the rules of the individual airline operating the flight usually apply. As United and Air Canada don’t specify weight restrictions you would just need to consider the 8kg weight limit of Lufthansa and ensure that your bag adheres to the size restrictions of each airline.
  Reply
robert vagnier October 20, 2019
Can I bring auto parts in my carry on? These would be a wire harness, small water hose, and electric circuit breakers for my house. Also dog medicine in pill form. Thank you.
Reply
- Catherine Luther October 21, 2019
  Hi Robert,
  You’ll need to give United a call on this one as the information on their website is not that specific to detail their policy on these individual items.
  Reply
Al October 25, 2019
Can I bring a pill box with my medications in my personal bag?
Reply
- Jarrod West October 25, 2019
  Hi Al,
  Yes, you should be able to bring your medications with you in your personal bag.
  Reply
Tammy M Hamner November 7, 2019
Are creams and/or solid stick deodorants a part of our bag of liquids?
Reply
- Catherine Luther November 8, 2019
  Hi Tammy,
  Stick deodorants are fine and do not need to be included in your liquid bag; however, creams will need to be included and must not exceed 3.4 ounces (100ml) per item.
  Reply
Nancy November 9, 2019
I have purchased 2 tickets to Aruba in basic economy. Can I bring a purse and 1 carry on without paying a fee?
Reply
- Erin Miller November 10, 2019
  Hi Nancy, passengers that have purchased Basic Economy Fares are NOT allowed a free carry-on unless they are flying on a trans-Atlantic route.
  Per United’s Policy:
  “If you’re traveling on a Basic Economy ticket, you can only bring one personal item on board. There are some exceptions, which we list below.
  If you bring a full-size carry-on bag to the gate, you’ll need to check your bag. You’ll also have to pay the applicable checked bag fee and a $25 gate handling charge. To keep it simple at the gate, you’ll need to pay by credit card.
  If you’re traveling on a Basic Economy ticket and one of the following exceptions apply, you can follow our normal carry-on bag policy:
  – Customers traveling across the Atlantic Ocean
  – MileagePlus® Premier® members or companions traveling on the same reservation
  – Primary cardmembers of qualifying MileagePlus credit cardsfootnote2 or Star Alliance™ Gold members”
  Reply
Gretchen November 13, 2019
“Unfortunately, the ability to bring a carry-on when booked in basic economy is not extended to your traveling companion. Only the cardholder is eligible to bring a carry-on on board with a basic economy ticket, even if the companion is on the same reservation.”
This is incorrect. According to the United website, “Basic Economy Frequently Asked Questions,” all passengers on the same reservation are entitled to a free full sized carry-on:
For trans-Atlantic flights, all travelers with a Basic Economy ticket — even those without a MileagePlus credit card — can bring a full-sized carry-on bag on board.
For all other flights, if you are a primary cardmember of a qualifying MileagePlus credit card at the time of check-in and you provided your MileagePlus number when purchasing a Basic Economy ticket, you and travel companions on the same reservation will maintain your boarding priority and be allowed to bring a full-sized carry-on bag on board if space permits. The qualifying MileagePlus credit card must be used to purchase the ticket. Qualifying cards are: MileagePlus Explorer Card, MileagePlus Explorer Business Card, MileagePlus Club Card, MileagePlus Club Business Card, Presidential PlusSM Card, Presidential Plus Business Card, MileagePlus Awards Card, Ixe United Universe Card, and Ixe United Card.
Reply
- Catherine Luther November 14, 2019
  Hi Gretchen,
  Thanks for the feedback. We’ll take a look and update the article.
  Reply
Julie Happel November 18, 2019
Are heating pads allowed in checked baggage?
Reply
- Jarrod West November 18, 2019
  Hi Julie,
  Yes, you should be able to bring a heating pad in your checked luggage.
  Reply
Kent S November 30, 2019
Greetings,
We are flying first class to Belize for a fly fishing trip, can I carry 2 fly rod tube 36” X 3” strapped to my smaller back as a carry on item. My other 5 rods I’ll have in my checked bag. Michele will have her carry on bag also. I assume being it’s first class they won’t get too Bucky about it.
Thank You
Reply
- Catherine Luther December 5, 2019
  Hi Kent,
  Any items taken as carry-on must adhere to United’s carry-on size restrictions and the items you mention exceed this. So I imagine these would not be permitted in the cabin, but as we’re not United we can’t confirm this for you. We advise you contact United Airlines directly to query this.
  Reply
Lauren Taylor December 2, 2019
Hi, I will be traveling with my 2 and a half-year-old son. We both purchased our own basic economy tickets. Am I allowed to bring an under-the-seat bag, diaper bag, and my son’s little backpack? Thanks!
Reply
- Andrew Kunesh December 2, 2019
  Hey Lauren! This should be OK as each traveler is allowed a carry-on and a personal item, so this should be fine (especially if the backpack is small). You may want to call American Airlines to confirm if you’re also carrying on a roller bag. Thanks!
  Reply
Steve Walsh December 6, 2019
It’s terrible, they wouldn’t even let me carry on my wayward son.
Reply
- Jarrod West December 7, 2019
  Well done, Steve! 🙂
  Reply
Ron Lee December 9, 2019
Hi. I see that all answers refer to a basic ticket for luggage carry-on requirements. What can you carry on with a first-class ticket? I have a small backpack and a small bag. Will this work?
Reply
- Jarrod West December 9, 2019
  Hi Ron,
  Yes, you should be fine to bring a small backpack and a small bag with a first-class ticket.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
swathi vasikarla December 10, 2019
Hi,
I want to know the dimensions for the checked luggage for boxes. What would be the exact dimensions for the boxes instead of the checked luggage bags.
Reply
- Jarrod West December 12, 2019
  Hi Swathi,
  United does not appear to publish the dimensions allowed for checking a box, but it would likely need to adhere to the posted dimensions for all other checked luggage. In which case, you may be required to pay an oversized fee. I would suggest you contact United directly to verify.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Paula Lejeune January 9, 2020
Are tweezers allowed in a carry on?
Reply
- Jarrod West January 9, 2020
  Hi Paula,
  Yes, you should be permitted to bring tweezers in your carry-on.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Anna January 13, 2020
How many books can I bring?
Reply
- Jarrod West January 13, 2020
  Hi Anna,
  You can bring as many books as you’d like as long as your bag is under the stated weight limit.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Jo Roth January 18, 2020
I’m flying business class from NY to Berlin. Can I bring a 46 inch x 6 inch poster tube (very light with posters) along with my single normal briefcase as carry on?
Reply
- Jarrod West January 18, 2020
  Hi Jo,
  Yes, I can’t imagine United would have any problem with that.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Amanda McBride January 25, 2020
What size of bag is okay to bring for basic economy as a personal item to place under the seat? [What dimensions]
Reply
- Catherine Luther January 25, 2020
  Hi Amanda,
  A personal item can measure 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 22 cm).
  Reply
  - Omi May 21, 2022
    Why does United have a smaller personal item size requirement than Frontier and Spirit (they allow an 18x14x8)? I’m really struggling to find a personal bag (book bag) that is under 10″ wide, and if I do, it won’t fit my laptop which is 10.25″ wide and 15″ tall. I’m really upset that I need to buy a whole new personal size travel bag just to comply with the odd size standards of United or risk having to pay outrageous fees for a carry-on or checked in bag for each way of my journey. I am really encouraging United to increase the size of the personal bag so school students and business people alike can study on an airplane.
    Reply
    - Katie Seemann June 6, 2022
      Hi Omi,
      I’m not sure why United chose that size for their personal item requirements. However, in my experience, I’ve never seen an airline question the size of a backpack as a personal item. I would think as long as it’s a fairly regular sized backpack you’ll be ok using it as your personal item.
      Reply
annette jacobsen January 25, 2020
I’d like to be able to crochet on my 2 1/2 hour flight. Am I allowed to have a crochet hook?
Pretty sure knitting needles are not allowed. Can someone confirm.
Thanks,
Annette
Reply
- Catherine Luther January 26, 2020
  Hi Annette,
  TSA’s website states that croquet hooks are permitted in your carry-on (knitting needles are as well). What a great way to pass the time – have a good flight!
  Reply
Sandy February 23, 2020
My son has a severe allergy that requires him to carry an epi-pen, does he need a special note from an allergist to carry it with him?
Reply
- Jarrod West February 23, 2020
  Hi Sandy,
  No, your son should not need any sort of special note. He should be fine to bring his epi-pen.
  Reply
Rilee Kelton February 28, 2020
Can I bring an electric fan in my carry-on luggage?
Reply
- Jarrod West February 29, 2020
  Hi Rilee,
  Yes, you should be able to bring an electric fan in your luggage.
  Reply
Rob Farris March 8, 2020
Can I bring snacks like cheese & crackers and yogurt covered raisins in my backpack?
Reply
- Catherine Luther March 9, 2020
  Hi Rob,
  Yes, you can take these snacks in your carry-on luggage.
  Reply
Bella March 18, 2020
Hello,
I’m going to be travelling soon (hopefully my flight is not canceled) but I would like to bring a backpack with me as I go from Basel Switzerland to London Heathrow, then to O’Hare (Chicago). I know just a backpack is allowed, but it is the next part that I am not so sure of– I would also like to bring my penny board with me onto the plane, and I would rather not put it in my checked baggage. It is only 56cm long and 15cm wide (22 inches long, 5 inches wide). I would love to attach it with some rope and a carabiner or use two lanyards to hold it on (it would hang on the back of the backpack), but I’m not sure if I can bring it as a carry on, let alone attach it to the outside of the backpack. I’m not sure what the airline’s rules are when it comes to penny boards.
Some people have said that they have to take it apart, and store some parts in the checked bags and others in their backpack, and some people have said that the airlines just smile and wave when they see the penny boards. I know it needs to be wheels-up when (if) it gets stowed under the seat…but does it need to be inside the backpack?
(Also, would I be allowed to ride it in the airport, or would I get fined?)
Thanks so much for the help.
Reply
- Stephen Au March 19, 2020
  Hi Bella,
  The easiest way to avoid all of this is to bring it in a checked bag. The risk you run if you try to avoid that is you’ll be instructed at the airport to either put it in your luggage or not take it on your trip. You can always try to connect it to the back of your backpack, but there’s a high chance you’ll be told that’s not allowed.
  Reply
Paiden May 8, 2020
can I take a pillow and blanket on an airplane? Like a normal bed pillow and a regular old blanket?
Reply
- Jarrod West May 8, 2020
  Hi Paiden,
  Yes, you can bring a pillow and blanket on the plane with you.
  Safe travels!
  Reply
Jerry Collins August 13, 2020
What is the actual breakdown for the checked baggage limit in inches (?? X ?? X ??)? I read something like 62 total inches but I need it broke down, please. Thank you!
Reply
- Jarrod West August 14, 2020
  Hi Jerry,
  For checked baggage, United does not have specific dimension parameters. As long as the overall size does not exceed 62 total inches, then the bag is fine. For carry-on items, the dimensions are 9 inches X 14 inches X 22 inches.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Moses September 21, 2020
I’m traveling economy tomorrow and I had a question about a personal item. I have a carry on, and I wanted to put my VR system in my personal backpack. My laptop won’t fit in my backpack as well, so I was wondering if I could just hold it in my hands when I board, or will it constitute another personal item? It isn’t in a bag, and I’m sure I’ll be using it for the duration of the trip. Thanks!
Reply
- Jarrod West September 22, 2020
  Hi Moses,
  It really just depends on the preference of the flight attendant. They might not have an issue with it at all but the could potentially ask you to stow it underneath the seat in front of you during takeoff and landing. But either way it should not constitute as another personal item.
  Reply
Cindy A Bacon January 8, 2021
How many packs of cigarettes can you carry in a carry-on into Cancun International Airport and avoid import tax?
Reply
- Catherine Luther January 10, 2021
  Hi Cindy,
  Travelers over the age of 18 can carry 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 200 grams of pipe tobacco.
  Reply
Dorothy June Manley May 18, 2021
Can I bring a small 7 lb dog?
Reply
- Jarrod West May 19, 2021
  Hi Dorothy,
  Yes, you can! You can read more about traveling with pets on this page of the United website.
  Reply
Virginia Maierhofer July 8, 2021
Can I bring a seat cushion and back and knee braces on the plane?
Reply
- Jarrod West July 8, 2021
  Hi Virgina,
  Yes, you should be allowed to bring those items on the plane.
  Reply

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United Airlines Carry-On Bag Sizes, Rules and Restrictions