United allows travelers to carry on one bag plus one personal item such as a purse, laptop bag or briefcase. The carry on must fit under the seat or in the overhead bin. This is typically an item that is no larger than 9 x 14 x 22 inches or 45 linear inches. Certain items are not counted toward the carry on bag allowance and include canes, crutches, child and infant seats, coats, books and magazines, umbrellas and food and drink.
There is no fee to carry on baggage, but United can require a bag to be checked if it does not meet the size criteria.
United requires travelers flying in Economy class to pay a fee for checked bags. United charges $25 for the first bag and $35 for the second bag. Additional fees apply for more than two checked bags. These fees may be reduced if the traveler pays through the EasyCheck-in online.
U.S. military personnel and dependents, First or Business class travelers or travelers who are part of a United rewards program, do not have to pay a fee for their first two checked bags.
Bags weighing more than 50 pounds or measuring more than 62 linear inches will be subject to additional fees. Any bag that measures more than 62 inches in a single dimension or more than 115 linear inches, or that weighs more than 100 pounds will not be accepted by United.
United restricts the amount of liquids allowed in carry on bags. All liquids must fit in one clear, resealable plastic bag either quart or liter sized. Individual liquids must be in containers 3 ounces or less. Items like baby formula and milk, medications and diabetic supplies are exempt from this rule.
United considers international travel to be any travel outside of the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands. International travelers are not charged for their first checked bag, but are required to pay a fee for a second checked bag. The fee depends on the destination.
