Does United Airlines Charge For A Carry On?

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Chief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

United Airlines is one of the world’s largest airlines, serving millions of passengers every year. Among the many questions travelers have, one of the most common is whether United Airlines charges for a carry-on. In this article, we will explore this topic and provide you with the latest information on United Airlines’ carry-on policy.

Carry-on luggage is essential for many travelers, as it allows them to keep their belongings close at hand during a flight. However, with many airlines charging for carry-on luggage, it’s important to know whether United Airlines follows this trend. So, let’s dive into the details and find out if United Airlines charges for a carry-on.

Does United Airlines Charge for a Carry on?

Does United Airlines Charge for a Carry On?

United Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, serving millions of passengers every year. With so many people traveling, it’s important to know what to expect when it comes to baggage fees. One of the most common questions that passengers have is whether United Airlines charges for carry-on luggage. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question in detail.

Carry-On Allowance for United Airlines

United Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on their flights. The personal item can be a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag, while the carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including handles and wheels.

If your carry-on bag exceeds these dimensions, it will need to be checked and you may be charged a fee. Additionally, if your carry-on bag is too heavy, you may also be charged a fee. The weight limit for a carry-on bag on United Airlines is 50 pounds (23 kg).

Carry-On Fees for United Airlines

United Airlines does not charge a fee for a carry-on bag that meets the size and weight requirements. However, if your bag exceeds these requirements, you will need to pay a fee to check it. The fee for a checked bag on United Airlines varies depending on your destination and whether you pay for your bag online or at the airport.

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It’s important to note that United Airlines has a Basic Economy fare that does not include a carry-on bag. Passengers who purchase a Basic Economy ticket can only bring a personal item on board. If you need to bring a carry-on bag, you will need to upgrade to a standard Economy ticket or higher.

Benefits of United Airlines Carry-On Policy

United Airlines’ carry-on policy allows passengers to bring a personal item and a carry-on bag on board for free. This can save passengers money compared to other airlines that charge for carry-on bags. Additionally, having a carry-on bag can be convenient for passengers who want to avoid waiting for their checked luggage at baggage claim.

Carry-On Policy vs. Checked Bag Policy

While United Airlines allows passengers to bring a carry-on bag for free, they do charge for checked luggage. The fee for a checked bag varies depending on your destination and whether you pay for your bag online or at the airport. Checking a bag can be convenient for passengers who have a lot of luggage or who are traveling with items that are not allowed in carry-on bags.

However, there are also drawbacks to checking a bag. Checked bags can get lost or delayed, which can be inconvenient for passengers. Additionally, checked bags may be subject to additional fees if they exceed weight or size limits.

How to Avoid Carry-On Fees on United Airlines

The best way to avoid carry-on fees on United Airlines is to make sure your bag meets the size and weight requirements. If your bag is too big or too heavy, you will need to pay a fee to check it. Additionally, if you purchase a Basic Economy fare, make sure you only bring a personal item on board to avoid additional fees.

Another way to avoid carry-on fees is to sign up for a United Airlines credit card. Some United Airlines credit cards offer free checked bags and priority boarding, which can be a great way to save money on baggage fees.

Conclusion

In conclusion, United Airlines does not charge a fee for a carry-on bag that meets the size and weight requirements. Passengers can bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on board for free. However, if your bag exceeds these requirements, you will need to pay a fee to check it. Additionally, passengers who purchase a Basic Economy fare can only bring a personal item on board. The best way to avoid carry-on fees is to make sure your bag meets the size and weight requirements or to sign up for a United Airlines credit card that offers free checked bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the baggage fees for United Airlines?

United Airlines charges for checked bags on some routes and for all checked bags on others. The fees vary depending on where you are flying to and from, as well as the type of fare you have purchased. Checked bag fees start at $30 each way for the first bag and go up from there. United Airlines also charges for oversized and overweight bags.

If you are traveling with a carry-on bag, United Airlines allows one personal item and one carry-on bag per passenger. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you, while the carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin. United Airlines does not charge for carry-on bags that meet these requirements.

What are the size restrictions for a carry-on bag on United Airlines?

United Airlines allows one carry-on bag per passenger, as well as one personal item such as a purse or briefcase. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and cannot exceed the following dimensions: 22 inches (height) x 14 inches (width) x 9 inches (depth). The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and cannot exceed the following dimensions: 17 inches (height) x 10 inches (width) x 9 inches (depth).

If your carry-on bag does not meet these requirements, you may be asked to check it at the gate and pay the applicable checked bag fee.

What is considered a personal item on United Airlines?

A personal item on United Airlines is a small item that can fit under the seat in front of you. Examples of personal items include a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack. The personal item cannot exceed the following dimensions: 17 inches (height) x 10 inches (width) x 9 inches (depth).

If you are traveling with a personal item and a carry-on bag, both items must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin. United Airlines does not charge for a personal item that meets these requirements.

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Can I bring a backpack on United Airlines?

Yes, you can bring a backpack on United Airlines as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. If you choose to bring a backpack as your personal item, it must fit under the seat in front of you and cannot exceed the following dimensions: 17 inches (height) x 10 inches (width) x 9 inches (depth).

If you choose to bring a backpack as your carry-on bag, it must fit in the overhead bin and cannot exceed the following dimensions: 22 inches (height) x 14 inches (width) x 9 inches (depth). As long as your backpack meets these requirements, United Airlines does not charge for a carry-on bag or a personal item.

What happens if my carry-on bag is too big for United Airlines?

If your carry-on bag is too big for United Airlines, you may be asked to check it at the gate. You will then need to pay the applicable checked bag fee. If you do not want to check your bag, you may be able to purchase a larger carry-on bag that meets United Airlines’ size requirements at the airport.

If you have a United Airlines credit card or MileagePlus status, you may be eligible for a free checked bag or a larger carry-on bag allowance. Be sure to check your eligibility before you fly.

United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, United Airlines does not charge for a carry-on bag as long as it meets their size and weight requirements. However, if your carry-on bag exceeds the allowed dimensions, you will be required to check it in and pay the applicable checked baggage fee. It’s always advisable to check the airline’s policy on baggage before you travel to avoid any surprises.

It’s also important to note that United Airlines offers different fare classes with varying baggage allowances. It’s essential to check which fare class you have purchased before you go to avoid any confusion at the airport. By doing so, you can ensure that you pack accordingly and avoid any unexpected fees.

Overall, United Airlines is a reliable carrier that offers its passengers a fair and straightforward baggage policy. By understanding the rules and regulations, you can avoid any unnecessary fees and have a stress-free travel experience.

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