United Airlines Carry-On Size, Weight & Fees (2026)
United Airlines's carry-on limit is 22 x 14 x 9 (56 x 35 x 23), including wheels and handles. There's No weight limit — you must be able to lift it into the bin unassisted. You can also bring one personal item up to 17 x 10 x 9. On Basic Economy, most domestic passengers get a personal item only — no full-size carry-on.
| Dimensions (in) | Dimensions (cm) | Weight limit | Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-on bag | 22 x 14 x 9 | 56 x 35 x 23 | No weight limit — you must be able to lift it into the bin unassisted | For tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026: checked bag from $45 prepay, $50 at lobby, $75 at the gate if a Basic Economy passenger brings a full-size carry-on that must be checked |
| Personal item | 17 x 10 x 9 | 43 x 25 x 22 | — | free |
Does United Airlines charge for a carry-on?
For tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026: checked bag from $45 prepay, $50 at lobby, $75 at the gate if a Basic Economy passenger brings a full-size carry-on that must be checked
Basic economy: what you can and can't bring
For most trips, Basic Economy is limited to ONE personal item only — no full-size carry-on — EXCEPT on transatlantic, transpacific, and flights to/from Canada and South America. MileagePlus Premier members (Silver and above) and most United co-brand card holders are exempt.
2026 policy note: United updated checked-bag prepay/lobby/gate fee tiers for tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026.
If your bag is too big at the gate
United uses rigid sizers at the gate. Bags that bulge past the frame, including wheels, are flagged.
United Express regional jets may not fit a 22 x 14 x 9 bag in the cabin; bags may be valet-tagged at the jet bridge.
How United Airlines compares
See carry-on rules for Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines — dimensions, basic-economy rules, and fees differ airline by airline.
Frequently asked questions
What is United Airlines's carry-on size?
22 x 14 x 9 (56 x 35 x 23), including wheels and handles.
Does United Airlines have a carry-on weight limit?
No weight limit — you must be able to lift it into the bin unassisted
Can I bring a carry-on on United Airlines basic economy?
For most trips, Basic Economy is limited to ONE personal item only — no full-size carry-on — EXCEPT on transatlantic, transpacific, and flights to/from Canada and South America. MileagePlus Premier members (Silver and above) and most United co-brand card holders are exempt.
How much is United Airlines's carry-on or gate-check fee?
For tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026: checked bag from $45 prepay, $50 at lobby, $75 at the gate if a Basic Economy passenger brings a full-size carry-on that must be checked
Sources
- United Airlines — Carry-on bags (PRIMARY) — verified