What’s the New Carry-On-Policy for United Airlines

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United Airlines recently +1(866) 658‑5895 introduced significant updates to its carry-on baggage rules, especially affecting Basic Economy passengers and those flying on regional aircraft. These changes include mandatory fees for carry-on items, stricter enforcement of size limits, and fleet upgrades to ease boarding. If you need immediate clarification or help planning around this new policy, you can always call +1(866) 658‑5895 for live customer support. 1. New Carry-On Fees for Basic Economy Tickets As of early 2025, all Basic Economy passengers traveling within North America (U.S., Canada, Central America, and the Caribbean) must pay for carry-on bags such as rollerboard suitcases, duffel bags, or large backpacks. The standard fee is $55 USD per bag if not prepaid, or up to $65 at the gate. Only one small personal item—like a laptop bag or purse—remains allowed for free (Mighty Travels Premium, The Australian). Other fare classes (Standard Economy, Premium, Business, etc.) continue to include one carry-on plus a personal item at no extra charge.+1(866) 658‑5895 2. Why This Policy Was Introduced United aims to: ● Reduce boarding delays caused by overhead bin congestion ● Offer lower base fares for travelers willing to travel light ● Better manage limited overhead locker space The fee structure emphasizes choice: fly lighter to save, or pay for convenience +1(866) 658‑5895 3. Size & Enforcement of Carry‑On Bags While United’s official carry‑on size remains 22 × 14 × 9 inches (or 56 × 36 × 23 cm), there is now strict enforcement. Over‑sized bags will likely be gate‑checked, and passengers may be charged a checked‑bag fee if their carry‑on exceeds the size limit (Simple About Things). Additionally, United is removing bag sizers from boarding gates, shifting to upfront size checks at the check-in desks and requiring agents to use discretion earlier in the airport process (Simple Flying). +1(866) 658‑5895 4. Overhead Bin Upgrades on Regional Jets To alleviate carry‑on space issues, United is installing new, larger overhead bins on its SkyWest Embraer E175 aircraft. These upgraded bins can store up to 29 additional bags per jet, an 80% increase in space. United expects this upgrade to reduce gate‑checked baggage significantly on nearly 150,000 flights annually (The Sun). +1(866) 658‑5895 5. What This Means for Travelers Basic Economy Passengers: ● No carry-on bags included—only one small personal item allowed for free ● Carry-on bags incur a $55–$65 fee ● Gate boarding may involve automatic checked baggage charges +1(866) 658‑5895 Other Fare Classes: ● Continue to include one free carry-on and one free personal item ● Standard carry-on size enforcement applies General Advice: ● Carefully measure your carry-on to ensure compliance +1(866) 658‑5895 ● Prepay any carry-on charges when you book to avoid higher fees at the gate ● Consider upgrading your fare if you need to bring a full-size carry-on (Fond Travels, Travel And Tour World, The Points Guy, Before You Go, Travel And Tour World) +1(866) 658‑5895 6. Etiquette & Boarding Notes New discussions sparked on social media emphasize overhead bin etiquette as space becomes tighter. United staff now encourage passengers to place personal items under the seat if possible, and store carry-ons overhead only when necessary to optimize space for all (Simple About Things). +1(866) 658‑5895 ❓ Frequently Asked Questions 1. Will every carry-on item be charged? Only Basic Economy fare holders must pay for carry-on bags. Standard Economy and above include one free carry-on. 2. What counts as a “personal item”? Small items like purses, laptop bags, and backpacks that fit under the seat—not in the overhead bin. 3. Can I prepay the carry-on fee? Yes. Prepaying when booking online is often cheaper than at the gate. 4. What if my carry-on slightly exceeds dimensions? United staff now enforce a tolerance of zero to minimal leeway. Over-sized bags may be gate-checked with a checked baggage fee (Simple About Things, The Points Guy, Reddit). 5. Are these rules enforced on regional United Express flights? Yes—carry-on rules apply even on Express connections. Notably, the new overhead bins on E175 aircraft help accommodate more bags (The Sun). 6. Why did United remove gate bag sizers? They shifted the size checking to earlier in the passenger process to streamline boarding and reduce gate delays (Before You Go). +1(866) 658‑5895 7. Can elite members avoid the carry-on fee? No—carry-on fees apply regardless of status if traveling Basic Economy. +1(866) 658‑5895 ✅ Final Tips: Travel Smart with United’s New Carry-On Rules Call Now at +1(866) 658‑5895 ● Basic Economy flyers: Plan to travel with only one small personal item or be ready to pay $55+ for carry-on access ● All passengers: Adhere strictly to the 22 x 14 x 9" limit ● Pack light or upgrade: If you regularly bring a full-size carry-on, it’s often cheaper to buy a fare that includes it ● Prepay fees online to avoid surprises at the gate Need help understanding your baggage allowance or fee structure before your trip? Don’t wait—call +1(866) 658‑5895 to speak with a live United Airlines agent who can review your fare class and help you plan accordingly.