Key Takeaways
- United Airlines’ personal item size limit is 9” x 10” x 17” (22 x 25 x 43 cm).
- It must fit completely under the seat in front of you, not in the overhead bin.
- Common examples: backpacks, purses, briefcases, or small duffel bags.
- Basic Economy travelers can bring only one personal item unless they’re Premier members or cardholders.
- Oversized personal items may require checking your bag at the gate (fees may apply).
Whether you’re flying a short domestic hop or a long-haul international route, United Airlines is strict about personal item size limits, especially for Basic Economy fares.
Many travelers assume a small backpack or tote automatically qualifies, only to find themselves gate-checking it before boarding. This guide breaks down United’s 2025 personal item policy, including what counts, what doesn’t, and how to avoid last-minute fees.
See how other flyers pack within Basic Economy limits. Join the Talk Travel United Airlines Forums to see real packing tips and bag recommendations.
United Airlines Personal Item Dimensions
United’s official policy defines a personal item as something that fits under the seat in front of you with maximum dimensions of:
9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 centimeters)
That’s slightly smaller than the standard for most U.S. airlines, so if you’re switching from Delta or American, your go-to backpack might not fit United’s tighter space.
Tip: Before packing, test your bag at home, if it can sit fully upright under a dining chair, it will likely fit under a United seat.
Personal Item vs Carry-On: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Personal Item | Carry-On Bag |
| Size Limit | 9″ x 10″ x 17″ | 9″ x 14″ x 22″ |
| Storage | Under the seat | Overhead bin |
| Allowed for Basic Economy | Yes (1 only) | No |
| Examples | Purse, laptop bag, small backpack | Roller bag, duffel, larger backpack |
If you’re traveling in Basic Economy, the personal item is your only allowed bag unless you have elite status or a United credit card. Standard economy and above can bring both.
What Counts as a Personal Item on United
Here are examples of what United accepts as personal items:
- Laptop or messenger bags
- Small backpacks (fits under seat)
- Tote bags or handbags
- Camera bags
- Slim briefcases
United does not consider the following as personal items if they exceed size limits:
- Large duffel bags
- Full-sized backpacks
- Gym bags or roller bags
- Shopping totes with rigid frames
Need help picking one that fits perfectly? Check out our guide on Best Travel Backpacks for 2025.
Special Allowances
Some items do not count toward your personal item allowance, including:
- Jackets or outerwear
- Umbrellas
- Reading material
- Food purchased at the airport
- Duty-free bags
Parents traveling with infants can also bring one diaper bag in addition to their personal item.
United Airlines Basic Economy Rules
If you’re flying Basic Economy, here’s the key:
- You can bring only one personal item that fits under the seat.
- No overhead bin access is included.
- If your bag doesn’t fit, United will require you to check it at the gate, often with a fee of $35–$45.
Exceptions apply for:
- United MileagePlus Premier members
- Star Alliance Gold members
- United Chase Card holders
These travelers can still bring a full-sized carry-on, even in Basic Economy.
Measuring Your Personal Item
Not sure your bag qualifies? Measure it before you leave home:
- Lay the bag flat and measure height, width, and depth including handles or pockets.
- Make sure it doesn’t exceed 9 x 10 x 17 inches in any direction.
- If you’re close to the limit, pack soft items that can compress under the seat.
United staff occasionally check bag sizes at the gate, especially for Basic Economy flights departing from major hubs like SFO, ORD, or EWR.
Tips to Avoid Gate Fees
- Choose soft-sided bags that can flex under the seat.
- Board early if you have a carry-on , later groups have tighter space.
- Use packing cubes to keep your small bag organized.
- Avoid rigid backpacks designed for tech gear or camera equipment, as they often exceed 17 inches.
Example: United-Approved Personal Item Bags
| Brand & Model | Fits United’s Size Limit | Notes |
| Nomatic Navigator Sling 10L | Yes | Compact and sleek for business travel |
| Cotopaxi Batac 16L Backpack | Yes | Lightweight and flexible |
| Samsonite Xenon 3.0 Briefcase | Yes | Perfect for laptops and accessories |
| North Face Borealis Backpack | No | Too tall, fits overhead only |
What Happens If Your Personal Item Is Too Big?
If your personal item doesn’t fit completely under the seat, United may require you to check it at the gate. For Basic Economy, that usually means paying the checked bag fee, $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second (each way).
If you’re flying regular Economy or higher, it’ll be moved to the overhead bin if space allows.
Final Thoughts
United’s personal item rules are simple but strict. To avoid unexpected fees, choose a soft-sided bag under 17 inches and test it at home before your flight.
If you’re flying Basic Economy, think of your personal item as your entire luggage , pack efficiently and keep essentials within reach.
Want to know which personal items fit best under United’s new 737 MAX and 787 seats? Check out traveler discussions inside the Talk Travel United Airlines Forums.
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