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

Understanding the United carry-on size limits is crucial when traveling with United Airlines. Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning a one-time trip, knowing what you can bring onboard will help you avoid surprise fees, boarding delays, or the inconvenience of having to check your bag unexpectedly. This guide covers everything you need to know about the United carry-on size in 2025, including personal item rules, Basic Economy restrictions, and tips for efficient packing.

What is the United Carry-On Size Limit?

The current United carry-on size rule allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard.

Carry-On Bag Maximum Dimensions:

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

Your carry-on must fit in the overhead bin. It must not exceed the United carry-on size limit, or it may be checked at the gate with an extra fee.

Personal Item Maximum Dimensions:

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

This must fit under the seat in front of you. Acceptable personal items include a backpack, purse, briefcase, or laptop bag.

It is essential to measure your luggage accurately, including all protruding parts like handles and wheels, to meet the United carry-on size requirement.

United Carry-On Policy for Basic Economy Passengers

If you’ve booked a Basic Economy ticket, United Airlines enforces different rules for carry-on bags. In most cases, Basic Economy passengers are allowed only one personal item.

• No full-sized carry-on bag is permitted unless:

  • You are a Premier member.

  • You are the primary cardholder of a qualifying MileagePlus credit card.

  • You are flying on a transatlantic or transpacific route.

Trying to bring a carry-on that exceeds the United carry-on size allowance in Basic Economy may result in a forced gate check and an additional charge.

How Strict is United About Carry-On Size?

United Airlines is strict about enforcing its carry-on size policy. If your carry-on does not fit within the size checker at the gate, you’ll have to check it, often with an added fee.

To ensure compliance:

• Choose luggage that specifically states it meets United carry-on size limits.

• Avoid using expandable compartments unless still within the size limits.

• Don’t overpack and bulge your bag beyond the allowed dimensions.

Investing in a quality carry-on that matches the United carry-on size standard is a long-term way to avoid stress at boarding.

Extra Items You Can Bring in Addition to Your Carry-On

United allows passengers to bring certain items in addition to their carry-on and personal item. These do not count against your baggage allowance:

• A jacket or coat

• An umbrella

• Reading materials

• Food bought after the security checkpoint

• Duty-free purchases

However, none of these items should interfere with your space or other passengers.

United Carry-On Size and Special Items

Traveling with infants:
Parents may bring an additional diaper bag, a breast pump, and a child safety seat.

Medical and assistive devices:
Wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, and other assistive devices are allowed without affecting your United carry-on size allowance.

Musical instruments:
Small instruments that fit in the overhead bin or under the seat can be considered carry-on items, provided they meet the United carry-on size rules.

Packing Tips to Meet United Carry-On Size Limits

Efficient packing is key to staying within the United carry-on size restriction. Use the following tips:

1. Use a soft-sided bag: These are more flexible and often easier to fit into overhead bins.

2. Use packing cubes: Organize clothing and compress your items to save space.

3. Limit your liquids: Follow TSA’s 3-1-1 rule to avoid issues during screening.

4. Wear bulky clothing: Jackets and boots take up space—wear them instead.

5. Roll clothes instead of folding: Rolling saves space and minimizes wrinkles.

6. Leave space for purchases: Keep some room for any souvenirs or extra items on your return trip.

By following these steps, your carry-on is more likely to comply with United carry-on size guidelines.

Prohibited Items in United Carry-On Bags

United follows TSA’s security rules. Items not allowed in your carry-on include:

• Sharp items like knives or tools

• Flammable substances or explosives

• Self-defense items (e.g., pepper spray)

• Sporting goods that could be considered dangerous

• Liquids over 3.4 oz unless purchased at duty-free shops post-security

Before traveling, it is wise to consult the TSA and United’s official baggage guidelines to ensure your items meet regulations.

Final Thoughts on United Carry-On Size

The United carry-on size policy in 2025 remains consistent with industry standards but is strictly enforced. Whether you're flying Economy, Basic Economy, or a premium class, knowing the rules will help you travel smoothly and avoid unnecessary costs.

To summarize:

• Carry-on size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

• Personal item size: 17 x 10 x 9 inches

• Basic Economy has restrictions on carry-ons

• Measure and pack carefully

Following these guidelines ensures you stay within the United carry-on size limits and enjoy a stress-free boarding process. Always verify your ticket type and use approved luggage to make the most of your trip.