Is Carry On Free On United Airlines?

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Chief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

If you’re planning on traveling with United Airlines, you may be wondering if carry-on baggage is free of charge. The answer is yes, United Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on board free of charge.

This is great news for travelers who want to save money on baggage fees and avoid the hassle of checking in their luggage. However, there are some restrictions and guidelines that you should be aware of before packing your bags. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about carry-on baggage on United Airlines.

Is Carry on Free on United Airlines?

Is Carry on Free on United Airlines?

If you are planning a trip with United Airlines, then you may be wondering whether you can bring a carry-on bag for free. United Airlines is one of the largest and most popular airlines in the world, and it is known for its excellent customer service and high-quality amenities. In this article, we will explore whether carry-ons are free on United Airlines and what you need to know before packing your bags.

Carry-On Allowance

United Airlines has a carry-on baggage allowance that varies depending on the class of service you are traveling in. If you are traveling in Basic Economy, you are only allowed to bring one personal item, such as a purse or small backpack, that can fit under the seat in front of you. You are not allowed to bring a full-size carry-on bag.

If you are traveling in any other class of service, including United First, United Business, United Premium Plus, and United Economy, you are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and cannot exceed 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including handles and wheels. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and cannot exceed 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm).

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United Airlines does not charge any fees for carry-on bags that meet the size and weight requirements. However, if your carry-on bag exceeds the size or weight limit, you may be required to check it and pay a fee.

Benefits of Bringing a Carry-On

There are several benefits to bringing a carry-on bag when you travel with United Airlines. First, you can save time at the airport by avoiding the baggage claim area and going straight to your destination. Second, you can avoid the risk of lost or delayed luggage by keeping your belongings with you at all times. Finally, you can avoid the fees associated with checked bags, which can add up quickly if you are traveling with a family or for an extended period.

Checked Baggage Fees

If you need to check a bag with United Airlines, you will be required to pay a fee. The fee varies depending on your destination, class of service, and the number of bags you are checking. For domestic flights within the United States, the fee for the first checked bag is $35, and the fee for the second checked bag is $45. For international flights, the fees are higher and can range from $60 to $200 per bag, depending on the destination.

Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage

When deciding whether to bring a carry-on or checked bag with United Airlines, there are several factors to consider. If you are traveling for a short period and do not need to bring a lot of belongings, a carry-on bag may be sufficient. However, if you are traveling for a longer period or need to bring bulky items, such as sports equipment or musical instruments, a checked bag may be a better option.

It is also important to consider the fees associated with each option. While United Airlines does not charge a fee for carry-on bags that meet the size and weight requirements, checked bags can be expensive, especially if you need to check multiple bags or are traveling internationally.

Conclusion

In conclusion, carry-ons are free on United Airlines for all classes of service except for Basic Economy. However, there are size and weight restrictions that you must follow, and if your bag exceeds these limits, you may be required to check it and pay a fee. When deciding whether to bring a carry-on or checked bag, it is important to consider your travel needs and the fees associated with each option. By planning ahead and packing wisely, you can have a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience with United Airlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions for United Airlines.

What is United Airlines’ carry-on policy?

United Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board for free. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. If you have additional bags or they exceed the size and weight restrictions, fees may apply.

What are the size and weight restrictions for carry-on bags on United Airlines?

The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag on United Airlines are 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including handles and wheels. The maximum weight for a carry-on bag is 40 pounds (18 kg). Any bags that exceed these size and weight restrictions may need to be checked and additional fees may apply.

What items are not allowed in United Airlines’ carry-on bags?

United Airlines prohibits certain items from being carried on board, including weapons, explosives, flammable items, and certain chemicals. Additionally, any liquids carried on board must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less and placed in a clear, plastic, quart-sized bag. If you are unsure if an item is allowed, you can check United Airlines’ website or contact their customer service.

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How can I avoid baggage fees on United Airlines?

You can avoid baggage fees on United Airlines by packing light and only bringing a carry-on bag and personal item on board. If you need to bring additional bags or items, consider checking them before your flight. Additionally, if you are a MileagePlus member or have a United Airlines credit card, you may be eligible for free checked bags or other perks.

Can I bring a musical instrument on board United Airlines?

United Airlines allows musical instruments to be brought on board as carry-on items as long as they fit within the size requirements and do not exceed the weight limit. If the instrument is too large or heavy to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, it may need to be checked. United Airlines recommends contacting their customer service in advance to ensure that your instrument can be accommodated on your flight.

United Airlines Baggage Fees Explained


In conclusion, Carry on bags are not free on all United Airlines flights. However, passengers can still bring a personal item such as a purse or a laptop bag for free. If you’re planning on bringing a carry on bag, make sure to check the specific restrictions for your flight to avoid any additional fees or delays at the airport.

While the fees for carry on bags may seem like an inconvenience, it’s important to remember that airline companies have to adhere to strict safety regulations and weight limitations. By paying attention to the guidelines and packing efficiently, you can still travel comfortably without any additional costs.

Overall, United Airlines offers a range of options for passengers when it comes to luggage. Whether you’re looking to bring a large suitcase or just a small personal item, make sure to check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date information on their baggage policies. By doing so, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

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