United Carry-On Size Guide 2025: Rules, Dimensions, and Packing Tips

Understanding the United carry-on size policy is essential for travelers looking to avoid delays, extra fees, or last-minute luggage checks. United Airlines has clear rules for what passengers can bring into the cabin, and this guide explains everything about United carry-on size, personal item limits, and smart packing tips for 2025.

What is the United Carry-On Size Limit?

The official United carry-on size is:

• 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.

This is the maximum size allowed for carry-on bags on United Airlines. Your bag must fit in the overhead compartment without assistance. Any bag larger than the allowed United carry-on size will be required to be checked at the gate and may incur additional fees.

Along with a carry-on bag, United also allows one personal item, such as a backpack, purse, laptop bag, or briefcase. The maximum size for a personal item is:

• 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 23 cm)

Your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you.

United Carry-On Size Rules for Basic Economy

Passengers flying with a Basic Economy ticket on United Airlines face additional restrictions. If youre flying domestically or on select international routes in Basic Economy, you may not be allowed to bring a full-size carry-on.

In this case, only one personal item within the allowed size is permitted.

However, you can bring a full-sized carry-on under Basic Economy if:

• Youre a MileagePlus Premier member

• You have a qualifying United credit card

• Youre on a transatlantic or transpacific flight

Violating the United carry-on size policy under Basic Economy may result in your bag being checked and additional fees.

How Strict is United Airlines About Carry-On Size?

United Airlines is relatively strict about enforcing its carry-on size policy. Bag sizers are placed at boarding gates and check-in counters. If your bag exceeds the official United carry-on size, youll be required to check it.

To avoid issues:

• Measure your bag carefully, including handles and wheels.

• Avoid overpacking soft-sided bags that might exceed the limit.

• Test your bag in a sizer at home before travel.

Sticking to the United carry-on size rules ensures a smoother experience at the airport.

Additional Items Allowed with Carry-On

Besides a personal item and a carry-on within the allowed United carry-on size, travelers may bring the following items:

• A jacket or coat

• An umbrella

• Reading material

• Food purchased after security

• Duty-free items

These items do not count toward your baggage allowance but must still meet safety and space requirements.

Special Situations and United Carry-On Size

For families traveling with children:
Youre allowed to bring a diaper bag, a child safety seat, and a breast pump in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

For passengers with disabilities:
Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, and canes are allowed on board and are not subject to the United carry-on size policy.

For musicians:
Small instruments may be carried on as long as they meet the United carry-on size and fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.

Packing Tips Based on United Carry-On Size

To make the most of your baggage allowance while staying within the United carry-on size limit, consider the following tips:

• Use packing cubes to compress clothing and organize space efficiently.

• Roll your clothes instead of folding to save room and avoid wrinkles.

• Wear your bulkiest clothing items like jackets and boots to reduce bag volume.

• Limit liquids to TSA-approved sizes (3.4 oz per item in a quart-size bag).

• Pack smart electronics and chargers in your personal item for easy access.

• Leave extra room in your bag in case you buy items during your trip.

Efficient packing that respects the United carry-on size ensures a hassle-free airport experience.

Prohibited Items in United Carry-On Bags

Even if your bag meets the United carry-on size, you must follow TSA and United safety regulations. The following items are not allowed:

• Sharp objects (except small scissors with rounded tips)

• Liquids over 3.4 ounces

• Explosive or flammable materials

• Sporting equipment (bats, clubs, etc.)

• Self-defense items like pepper spray

Always check the TSAs latest guidelines before packing.

Conclusion

Knowing the United carry-on size rules helps you avoid surprise charges, delays at boarding, and frustration during travel. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, following the airlines carry-on policy makes your journey smoother.

• Carry-On Bag: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

• Personal Item: 17 x 10 x 9 inches

• Restrictions for Basic Economy: Only personal item allowed unless exempt

Plan ahead, pack smart, and stick to the official United carry-on size guidelines for a better travel experience with United Airlines in 2025.