United Airlines Carry-On Rules & Size Limits (2026)
Planning to fly with United Airlines (UA) and wondering what you can bring on board? This comprehensive guide covers everything about United Airlines carry-on baggage rules including exact size dimensions, weight restrictions, personal item policies, and what additional items you can bring free of charge. All information is verified against United Airlines's official policies and updated regularly.
Quick Answer
United Airlines carry-on size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm). Free for Economy and above. Basic Economy: personal item only (carry-on not included, $35-$65 to add). Personal item: 17 x 13 x 9 inches (always free).
Size Limits at a Glance
| Bag Type | Size (inches) | Size (cm) | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-On Bag | 22 x 14 x 9 | 56 x 35 x 22 | Paid |
| Personal Item | 17 x 13 x 9 | 43 x 33 x 22 | Free |
Weight Limit
No weight limit
Carry-On Fee Details
Free for Economy and above. Basic Economy: personal item only (carry-on not included, $35-$65 to add).
Overhead bin access: Economy+: full access. Basic Economy: no overhead bin access unless carry-on purchased.
Personal Item Rules
Size: 17 x 13 x 9 inches (43 x 33 x 22 cm). Examples: Purse, laptop bag, small backpack (must fit under seat — 17 x 13 x 9 in)
Additional Items Allowed (Free)
- Coat or jacket
- Umbrella
- Food items
- Reading material
- Assistive devices
- Duty-free items in bag
How Strictly Are Rules Enforced?
Strict for Basic Economy. United actively enforces the personal-item-only rule for Basic Economy at the gate.
Expert Tips
- United Basic Economy does NOT include a carry-on — plan accordingly
- United's personal item size (17x13x9) is slightly smaller than competitors
- United Explorer card holders get free carry-on on Basic Economy
- If you're caught with a carry-on on Basic Economy, you'll pay $65 at the gate
Carry-On Packing Checklist
Before heading to the airport, ensure your carry-on meets United Airlines's requirements:
- Measure your bag: must be within 22 x 14 x 9 inches including handles and wheels
- Weigh your bag: No weight limit
- Personal item fits under the seat: 17 x 13 x 9 inches max
- Liquids in 3-1-1 compliant bag (containers 100ml or less, one quart-size clear bag)
- Electronics accessible for security screening
- No prohibited items (sharp objects, large liquids, flammable materials)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size carry-on does United Airlines allow?
- United Airlines allows a carry-on bag up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm).
- Is carry-on free on United Airlines?
- Free for Economy and above. Basic Economy: personal item only (carry-on not included, $35-$65 to add).
- What is United Airlines's personal item size?
- Personal item must be 17 x 13 x 9 inches. Examples: Purse, laptop bag, small backpack (must fit under seat — 17 x 13 x 9 in)
- Does United Airlines weigh carry-on bags?
- No weight limit