What is the carry-on limit for United Airlines?

For United Airlines, carry-on bags must not exceed 22x14x9 in (56x35x23 cm). There is no weight limit as long as you can lift it overhead. Free for standard economy and higher. Basic Economy passengers who bring a carry-on to the gate pay the standard fee plus a $25 gate service charge.

What is the personal item size for United Airlines?

The personal item size is restricted to a maximum of 17x10x9 in (43x25x22 cm) and must fit under the seat in front of you.

How much are the checked bag fees on United Airlines?

For domestic or standard Economy routes, United Airlines charges $30 for the 1st checked bag and $40 for the 2nd checked bag. Elite members or cardholders may qualify for waivers.

United Airlines Baggage Allowance & Fees 2026: Sizer limits & Calculator

United Airlines Sizer Limits Overview

Major Carrier

Personal Item

17 x 10 x 9 in

Must fit under the seat in front. Limit 17 x 10 x 9 inches. This is the ONLY bag allowed on Basic Economy tickets.

Carry-On Bag

22 x 14 x 9 in

Must fit overhead. BASIC ECONOMY tickets do NOT include a carry-on bag (unless trans-Atlantic/Pacific).

Checked Bag

50 lbs (23 kg)

Standard checked bag limits apply: 62 linear inches, 50 lbs. Business/First class allows 70 lbs (32 kg).

Can I Bring It? Sizer Calculator

Length18 in

Width14 in

Height (Thickness)8 in

Bag Weight15 lbs

Compliance Results for United Airlines

Fail

Under-seat Personal Item

Too Large (Airline max is 17x10x9 in)

Pass

Overhead Cabin Carry-On

Fits overhead bin free

Pass

Checked Hold Bag

Complies with standard checked limits

Estimated Baggage Fee:$0

Detailed Luggage Guidelines

Here is the full breakdown of size sizer dimensions, weight caps, and carry-on/checked bag policies.

Luggage Type	Maximum Size (Inches)	Maximum Size (Metric)	Weight Cap	Standard Cost
Personal Item	17 x 10 x 9 in	43 x 25 x 22 cm	No strict limit	FREE (Fits under seat)
Carry-On Bag	22 x 14 x 9 in	56 x 35 x 23 cm	No limit (must lift)	Free for standard economy and higher
1st Checked Bag	Max 62 linear inches	Max 157 linear cm	Max 50 lbs	$30 USD

Pro-Tip for United Airlines Travelers

If flying United Basic Economy, you cannot bring a carry-on. Buy your ticket with a United Explorer credit card to bypass this rule and get a free carry-on + free checked bag for your group.

Best bag selection: United has a slightly narrower personal item sizer (17x10x9"). Use a dedicated commuter tote or brief bag rather than a bulging backpack.

Baggage Penalty & Excess Fees

Exceeding either sizer dimensions or weight caps will result in extra charges at check-in or boarding gates.

Fee Category	Domestic US Rate	Details
1st Checked Bag Fee	$30	$35 for 1st bag ($30 if prepaid online), $45 for 2nd bag ($40 online).
2nd Checked Bag Fee	$40	Standard rate for economy passengers.
Overweight Charge	$100	Applies if the bag exceeds standard weight caps (e.g. 50 lbs / 23 kg).
Oversized Charge	$200	Applies if the bag linear dimensions exceed 62 inches.

For more details or to pre-book excess luggage allowances online, visit the official United Airlines Baggage Page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum baggage size sizer for United Airlines in 2026?+

Your carry-on bag must measure within 22x14x9 in (including wheels and handles) to fit into United Airlines's overhead bin sizers. Your personal item must fit within 17x10x9 in to go under the seat in front of you.

What happens if my cabin bag exceeds the United Airlines sizer?+

If your luggage exceeds sizer limits at the boarding gate, you will be charged a gate check fee. For United Airlines, this can range up to $65 and the bag will be checked into the hold.

How much does a checked bag cost on United Airlines?+

A standard 50 lbs (23 kg) checked bag on United Airlines costs $30 if checked in. Low-cost tickets may charge extra. Booking your bags online 24 hours prior to departure is always cheaper than purchasing at the airport counter.