Can I Have A Carry-On And A Backpack With United?

Traveling can be both exciting and overwhelming; understanding airline policy when it comes to luggage is no exception. For travelers flying with United Airlines, knowing how the rules apply for carry-on bags and personal items ensures a smooth trip. Read this thorough review of United’s policy which will help you understand the specifics of what you can bring on board, including the carry-on and personal item policy.

Understanding United Airlines Carry-On Policy

United Airlines has updated its policies regarding what passengers can carry into the aircraft. These policies aim to maintain safety, comfort, and efficiency in boarding. Generally, passengers are allowed to bring free carry-on bags and one personal item onboard. The number is reliant on the kind of fare used.

Carry-On Bag Specifications

United Airlines has specified certain dimensions regarding carry-on luggage since it is trying to make a well-timed effort to make boarding more efficient and take maximum advantage of the cabin space.

  • Size: For carry-on bags, the maximum allowed sizes are 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (23x 35x 56cm). The size includes handles or wheels protruding outside, so do take accurate measurements of your bag before traveling to the airport. Thus, if your bag is bigger than the measurements, you could have to check it there at the gate, which could incur additional fees.
  • Weight Limits: United does not have a rigid weight limit on carry-ons, but if you cannot even lift your bag into the overhead bin with enough facility to do so independently, they may request that you gate-check it.

The carry-on bags must fit into the overhead bin. If your bag is too large, you will most probably have to gate check and be delayed and also charged extra. Ensure before flying that your bag meets these size requirements of the flights and avoid being delayed and charged extra.

Requirements for a Personal Item

Except for your carry-on, you’re allowed to have one other personal item. A personal item should not exceed the dimensions of your carry-on and should be accessible in case you need to bring it out while flying.

  • Size: Your personal item does not need to be larger than 9x10x17 inches, or 43 x 25 x 22 cm. Common everyday items considered to be personal items are your bag, knapsack, briefcase, or even smaller duffel bags.
  • Carry-On: Your personal belongings should fit in the seat in front of you. Most backpacks are considered personal items so long as they meet these size requirements. This ensures that you can store your gear quickly enough without having to look in the overhead bin during the flight.

Restrictions on Basic Economy

When it comes to passengers flying on a Basic Economy ticket, there are more strict limitations regarding what can be brought onboard:

Carry-On Policy: The Basic Economy ticket on United Airlines has strict restrictions related to carry-on baggage. This ticket type doesn’t include carry-ons unless you have a ticket to certain locations like South America, Canada, any locations across the Atlantic Ocean, and even international flights to the Pacific region. You have to check any carry-ons you are taking long for a fee starting at $35. In case you have brought any carry-on up to the gate that won’t accommodate under your seat, then you must pay around $65 for checking the same. 

Personal Items: This is the only thing that you can carry on a Basic Economy ticket on United Airlines. Personal items may include a shoulder bag, laptop bag, or backpack that fits below your front seat space. 

Exceptions for Carry-On Bags

While Basic Economy does impose some limitations, some exceptions make it somewhat more flexible for certain travelers:

  • MileagePlus Premier Members: Those who have Premier status or can share Premier status are allowed to bring one free carry-on, even on Basic Economy fares. This is just another way that United’s loyalty program benefits top-tier frequent flyers, thus keeping them on the airline. Star Alliance Gold members can also bring a carry-on without any additional charge even if they are travelling on a Basi Economy ticket. 
  • Co-branded Credit Card Holders: The same credit card holder of a mileage-eligible credit card shall be eligible for a free carry-on sans any extra baggage charges. This is another advantage of using United’s co-branded credit cards and will enjoy the added benefit carrying of personal items at no additional cost during travel.

Baggage Carried On Board

Besides your carry-on and personal items, United Airlines accepts many items onboard without extra charges. Knowing what you can bring onboard maximizes your travel experience through the following:

  • Jacket or Coat: You are allowed to wear or take a jacket or coat onboard without it being counted under your baggage allowance. Wait.
  • Umbrella: A compact umbrella is also allowed onboard.
  • Reading Materials: You may bring newspapers or books aboard for your entertainment.  
  • Food Bought in the Airport: After passing through the security check any food products bought after clearing security may be carried onboard. 
  • Diaper Bags and Breast Pumps: Parents bringing infants onboard are allowed to carry diaper bags and breast pumps onboard without them being counted toward their baggage allowance.
  • Mobility Aids: Items like wheelchairs or crutches are allowed to be carried free of charge on board. Child safety seats and strollers are permitted for family travelers with infants.

Read Also: United Airlines Vacation Package

Liquids Carry-On Policy

United Airlines adheres to the TSA’s carry-on liquids policy to the letter. It is nice to refresh yourself with this information to avoid check-in lines when passing through the security checks:

The 3-1-1 rule of the TSA accommodates a quart-sized bag containing liquids, gels, creams, and pastes if it is in a container of 3.4 ounces or less.

Notice these:

  • Any liquids you must carry must be in this quart-sized bag, which you are supposed to stow in an easy-to-access portion of your carry-on luggage so security can take and check it during the screening process.

Tips for Packing Liquids

  1. Pack in Travel-Sized Bottles: Purchase travel-sized containers, which will meet TSA liquid rules. Virtually every retailer sells pre-made travel kits that offer compliant bottles.
  1. Seal Your Liquids: Place all your caps screwed tightly in resealable plastic bags inside your quart-sized container to avoid any leaks when traveling.
  1. Prepare for Security Checks: You should have liquids you can access when arriving at the security checkpoints to put them promptly in the bins and go through screening.

Carry-on Luggage Travel Tips

To help avoid extra complications at the check-in point and breeze through with your carry-on easily, remember these helpful tips:

  1. Measure Your Bags: Take your time to measure your carry-on baggage and personal items before leaving for the airport. This will surely make sure you are adhering to the size requirements of United, thus preventing you from spending extra money at the airport.
  1. Know Your Fare Class: Know what type of fare class you have when you book. Being aware of whether you’re flying in Basic Economy or another fare class will also help you determine if you’re allowed to bring items on board.
  1. Bag Sizers Available at Airport: Alternatively, if you are still unsure about your bag size when arriving at the airport, you may also use United’s available bag sizers situated near check-in counters or boarding gates.
  1. Pack Smart: Store everything, including your prescriptions, electronics, travel documents, and valuables, in your cabin so they’ll be available immediately in case you want them during your flight. This way, you won’t have to rummage through your carry-on luggage while you’re seated.
  1. Pack Light: If possible, pack light so everything fits snugly in your purse or backpack. This way you will be able to adhere to the size limits recommended by United Airlines. When you navigate busy airports with ease, it helps release stress immensely. 
  1. Be Alert to Changes in Policy: Airline policy can change overnight due to security reasons or operational needs. It’s always best to check United Airlines website before travel for its latest information on baggage policy.
  1. Pack Compression Bags: Pack as much as you possibly can into your carry-on. Compression bags compress those clothes that might have occupied too much space otherwise. It squeezes the bulk so more fits into tighter spaces.
  1. Pack similar items together: Packing cubes or pouches put inside the carry-on organize similar things together, like toiletries and clothes. Then, it’s easier to find what you need when preparing for the aircraft.
  1. Be Careful with Electronics: If you are carrying laptops or tablets in your carry-on luggage or personal items, don’t forget that you will need to remove them from their cases for security checks.
  1. Prepare Boarding: Understand United’s boarding procedures so you are prepared when you hear boarding announcements made. Organizing your gear will save you and the travelers around you a tremendous headache when boarding.

Conclusion

It shouldn’t be too difficult to travel with United Airlines if you’re provided with very clear information about the carrying of their luggage. Most passengers are allowed to carry on a carry-on and personal item such as a backpack onto the flight; although this is forbidden to Basic Economy passengers traveling on a small number of routes. If all dimension requirements are met, and understanding restrictions depend on the type of ticket, then it shouldn’t be too much of a hassle.

After all, preparation is the key when it comes to air travel. Familiarize yourself with United Airlines’ official website and find out baggage policies before your flight takes off. With this knowledge in hand and following best practices, you’re very well-equipped for a nice flight with United Airlines!

Information on what you can take with you onboard will not only enrich the experience of traveling but also minimize what may prove to be very stressful when thinking about air travel logistics. Whether you are taking a weekend trip or going abroad for an adventure, knowing United Airlines’ policy regarding carry-ons will make sure that you are prepared at every turn! Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a backpack and a carry-on?

Yes, you can bring a backpack and a carry-on if not flying on Basic Economy on some routes.

Can I bring a backpack to the United Basic Economy?

Basic Economy only allows a personal item and no carry-on, except for certain itineraries.

What if my personal item is 2 inches too big?

If your personal item is 2 inches too big, you will gate check at the discretion of the agent.

Can I bring a duffel bag as a carry-on on United?

Yes, a duffel bag can be a carry-on if it fits within the size 9x14x22 inches.


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