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United’s carry-on rules are straightforward for most tickets: bring one carry-on for the overhead bin plus one personal item that fits under the seat. The main exception is Basic Economy, where you’re typically limited to a personal item only unless you qualify for an exception.
Below is the quick cheat sheet, then the details.
United carry-on rules at a glance
If you only read one section, make it this one—these are United’s published size limits and the one fare detail that changes everything.
For quick comparisons across airlines, keep my carry-on size by airline guide bookmarked.
Carry-on bag (overhead bin): 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (including wheels/handles)
Personal item (under the seat): 17″ x 10″ x 9″ (must fit under the seat in front of you)
Basic Economy (important): In most cases, personal item only (no full-size carry-on), unless you meet an exception
Carry-on weight limit: United does not publish a numeric carry-on weight limit—pack so you can lift and stow your bag safely
United carry-on bag size limit (overhead bin)
United’s maximum carry-on size is:
- 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (including wheels, handles, and attachments)
Practical tip: measure your bag fully packed from the outside. Overstuffed pockets and rigid handle housings are what usually push a bag from “fine” to “doesn’t fit.”
United personal item size limit (under-seat bag)
In addition to your carry-on (on most fares), United allows one personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you.
- 17″ x 10″ x 9″
This is the bag I’d treat as “must stay with me” storage—medications, chargers, keys, travel documents, laptop/tablet, and anything fragile.
If any bags are larger than the carry-on size listed above, or if you bring additional items, you’ll have to check them to your final destination. Additional charges may apply.
Carry-On Weight Limit
United does not publish a numeric carry-on weight limit in its general carry-on guidance. The practical expectation is that you can lift and stow the bag safely in the overhead bin.
United Basic Economy: when a carry-on is NOT allowed
This is the #1 place travelers get surprised on United.
For most Basic Economy trips, United’s rule is one personal item only (no full-size carry-on). United does list exceptions—for example, certain elite members and some co-branded credit cardholders may still be allowed a carry-on, and some international itineraries may follow different rules.
My practical advice: if you book Basic Economy, confirm your exact baggage allowance in your reservation details before you pack—because showing up with an overhead-size carry-on when you’re not eligible typically becomes a paid, last-minute check.
Recommended Carry-On Bag
If you want a lightweight, easy-to-roll carry-on that’s a great “default” for frequent flying, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner is my top pick.
Manufacturer dimensions:
- Overall dimensions (includes wheels and carry handles): 23″ H x 14.5″ W x 9″ D
- Case dimensions (the main body): 21″ H x 14″ W x 9″ D
The honest fit note for United
United’s published carry-on maximum is 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (including wheels/handles). The Maxlite 5 is slightly larger overall in height (23″) and width (14.5″), so if a sizer is being enforced strictly, it can be a close call.
How I’d travel with it on United:
If you’re on Basic Economy, assume you may not be allowed an overhead carry-on at all unless you meet an exception—so verify your allowance before you bring it.
Keep it unexpanded and avoid overstuffing exterior pockets.
This carry-on bag has been sizer bin tested to accommodate overhead bin space on most major US airlines.
Case Dimensions:
- H: 21 in. W: 14 in. D: 9 in.
Note: If fully expanded it may not meet overhead bin size limits, so be careful to not overpack.
United Express Carry-On Rules (Regional Planes)
United’s regional partner airlines (United Express or CommuteAir) use smaller planes with limited overhead space. If your carry-on is larger than the personal item dimensions, you will have to gate-check your bag before boarding.
All carry-on bags within United Airlines’ size restrictions will be gate checked, free of charge, during the boarding process and returned upon deplaning. You will not have to go to baggage claim to retrieve your bag, it will be delivered to the jet bridge outside the plane door.
Despite this “official rule” there are some bags that can easily fit on a regional jet. Check out this article on the best carry-on luggage for regional jets.
United Airlines Policy for Carry-on Liquids
The rules for carry-on liquids are set by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), not by the airline. United enforces the rules and policies of the TSA.
It’s also important to note that the rules for bringing a “liquid” in your carry-on bag are different from the rules that govern what you can bring in your checked luggage. Liquids in a carry-on bag must be 3.4 ounces or smaller and fit in a 1 quart-sized container. Anything larger must be placed in your checked luggage.
Exceptions to this rule are certain medications and baby food/child nourishment.
Summary: United Airlines Carry-On Policy
If you understand the fine print and comply with United Airlines’ carry-on policy you will avoid additional fees and delays at the airport. It’s very important to review United’s policy before packing for your flight and to ensure that all bags meet the requirements when you arrive at the airport.
By doing so, you can avoid potential problems and enjoy a smooth and stress-free travel experience with United Airlines. Here is a link to United’s Carry-On Rules page to make sure you have the most up-to-date information.
Delta Carry-On Rules: Everything You Need to Know!
Can I bring an empty metal water bottle in my carryon?
Yes. It needs to be empty going through security, then you can fill it up in the airport before you get on the plane.
My husband needs to wear a ostomy pouch. I have blunt scissors (that are supposed be be TSA complient) that I will need to place in my personal item. Is this acceptable if he needs to change the pouch while in flight? Also, can a small sharper scissor be able to be placed in the checked bag for the same reason while on our vacation?
Can you bring a Trekking Pole in your carry on.It Folds up
I am a knitter. What knitting needles can I bring in my personal item?
I did not see on your list a CPAP machine but I believe that is a no charge item,correct?
You can bring your CPAP as a carry on at no additional charge
Can I take my Ozempic medication in my carry on?
You are allowed to bring medication in your carry on.
Can I bring my hair dryer, hair spray,
Carry on pillow little blanket?
Hi Ila – hair dryer, pillow and blanket are allowed. hairspray will have to be in a bottle less than 3.4 ounces