United Airlines Baggage Rules and Fees:
Carry-On & Checked Bag Guide
This page provides general information on United Airlines baggage rules and allowance, including carry-on size limits, checked baggage allowance,
and common travel considerations.
United Airlines generally allows one carry-on bag and one personal item on most fares. Carry-on allowance may vary by ticket type, including Basic Economy.
| Carry-On Size | Personal Item Size |
|---|---|
| Max size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Must fit under the seat |
| Yes, wheels and handles count | Suggested size: 17 x 10 x 9 inches |
| If it’s bigger, they may take it at the gate and check it in | Think laptop bag, small backpack, or a small tote |
Prohibited Item in Carry On
Corrovives
Explosives
Flammable Liquids
Firerams (Undecared)
Blunt
Liquids > 100ml
Poisons / Toxics
Sharp Objects
Tools
Prohibited Items in Carry-On Bags
- Explosives
- Flammable liquids
- Undeclared firearms
- Sharp objects
- Tools
- Liquids over 100 ml (3.4 oz)
- Toxic or corrosive substances
What You Can Bring Inside
Common allowed items include clothes, electronics, chargers, snacks, medicines, and books. TSA guidelines apply to all U.S. departures.
Liquid Rules (TSA 3-1-1 Rule)
- Liquids must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less per container
- All liquid bottles must fit into one quart-sized clear bag
Carry-On Allowance for Lap Infants
Lap infants do not receive their own carry-on bag. However, parents may bring:
- One diaper bag in addition to their own carry-on and personal item
- Formula, baby food, medicines, and breast pumps
- One stroller and one car seat (generally checked free of charge)
Policies may vary by route and aircraft.
Stroller Guidelines
- You can generally bring your child’s stroller without additional charge, depending on route and aircraft.
- You can check it either at the counter or right at the gate.
- Small foldable strollers can usually be taken through the aircraft door.
- Large or non-folding strollers go to the counter.
- Pick them up at the gate or baggage claim.
- They don’t use up your baggage allowance.
Quick Summary:
- 1 carry-on + 1 personal item
- No weight limit
- Must follow size rules
- TSA liquid rules apply
Checked baggage allowance on United Airlines generally depends on ticket type, route, and fare class. Based on publicly available United Airlines baggage information:
| Ticket Type | Weight Limit | Size Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | 0 lbs (23 kg) | 2 linear inches |
| Premium/Business | 0 lbs (32 kg) | 2 linear inches |
Prohibited Item in Check-In
Corrovives
Explosives
Flammable Liquids
Poisons / Toxics
United Airlines Oversized and Overweight Baggage
If a checked bag exceeds United Airlines baggage weight limits or size restrictions, additional fees may apply. Based on publicly available information:
- Bags over 50 lbs (23 kg) may be subject to overweight charges
- Bags exceeding 62 linear inches may be considered oversized
- Special items like sports equipment may have separate handling rules
Carry-On vs. Check-In? | The Difference
| Carry it if | Check it if |
| ● It has valuables | ● It’s heavy |
| ● You need it during the flight | ● It’s too big for the cabin |
| ● You want to skip baggage claim | ● It has liquids or bulky items |
For general carry-on and checked baggage rules across airlines, see our carry-on and checked baggage rules guide.
Why Size Rules MatterUnited Airlines carry-on size rules are based on publicly available airline policies. On connecting flights, especially those involving non-U.S. carriers, carry-on size limits may differ between airlines. Reviewing the baggage policy for each airline on your itinerary before travel is recommended.
For general airline travel tips including packing for connecting flights, see our travel tips guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the baggage allowance?
One carry-on bag and one personal item are free. For checked bags, it depends on your ticket and route.
Q:Can I carry liquids in my carry-on?
Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule: 100 ml (3.4 oz) containers, everything in a quart-size clear bag.
Q.What to do if I have overweight or oversized bags?
Overweight, oversized, or additional checked bags may be subject to additional charges based on United Airlines’ baggage policy.
Q: Carry-on size?
22 x 14 x 9 in for carry-on. 17 x 10 x 9 in for a personal item.
Q: Free checked bags?
The domestic economy is usually none. International: often 1 free bag.
Q: Do I need to pay extra for a carry-on?
Most of the tickets include a free carry-on. Some Basic Economy fares may charge for it.
Q: Checked baggage policy?
Checked baggage allowance and weight limits vary by fare class and route.
• Economy class typically allows checked bags up to 50 lbs (23 kg)
• Premium cabins may allow higher weight limits
• Maximum size is generally 62 linear inches (L + W + H)
Policies may vary by destination and aircraft.
Q.Carry-on vs. checked bag?
Carry-on stays in the cabin. Checked bags go in cargo. Carry-ons are smaller but usually free.
Q: What can be packed in the carry-on?
Clothes, electronics, meds, and duty-free items. You can avoid large liquids and sharp or hazardous items.
Disclaimer : All information on MyBaggageInfo is provided for general travel guidance only. Airline policies, baggage rules, and fees can change at any time without prior notice. While we strive to keep our content accurate and updated, travelers should always verify details directly with the airline before their journey. MyBaggageInfo is not responsible for any errors, delays, or decisions made based on the information provided.
