United Airlines baggage allowance: cabin and checked

United Airlines is an overseas carrier flying international routes to Japan. Flies Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya to its US hubs. On Basic Economy the carry-on allowance is restricted, which catches people out.

Updated September 29, 2026

23kgChecked, per piece

Overseas carrierInternational flights

What United Airlines lets you take into the cabin

Each side: 56 × 35 × 23cm
Pieces: 2 — one bag plus one personal item
Personal item: Within 43 × 25 × 22cm, must fit under the seat in front

United AirlinesYour carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin, so it must be 9 in x 14 in x 22 in (23 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm). When measuring your bag, be sure to include the handle and wheels. These items must fit under the seat in front of you, so they must be 9 in x 10 in x 17 in (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm).Official page

What United Airlines lets you check in

Free pieces: Varies by fare
Weight: 23kg per piece in Economy, 32kg in premium cabins
Size: 76 × 52 × 30cm, or 158cm total

If you go over the allowance

How it is charged: Basic Economy fares do not include a free carry-on bag on many routes — check your fare before you pack.

Paying at the airport is always the most expensive option. Where an allowance can be bought in advance, buying it online before you travel costs less.

Batteries and things that cannot be checked

United Airlines applies the same rule as every other airline flying to Japan.

Power banks and spare lithium batteries travel in the cabin only, never in checked baggage.
Up to 100Wh needs no approval; 100–160Wh needs the airline's agreement and is limited to two; over 160Wh is refused.
E-cigarettes and heated tobacco go in the cabin and cannot be used or charged during the flight.
A device in a checked bag must be switched fully off, and removable batteries come out and travel with you.

Frequently asked questions

What is the carry-on size limit on United Airlines?

Each side: 56 × 35 × 23cm. Pieces: 2 — one bag plus one personal item.

How much checked baggage is included with United Airlines?

Pieces: Varies by fare. Weight: 23kg per piece in Economy, 32kg in premium cabins. Size: 76 × 52 × 30cm, or 158cm total.

Can I put a power bank in checked baggage on United Airlines?

No. Power banks and spare lithium batteries must travel in the cabin on every airline flying to or within Japan. Up to 100Wh needs no approval, 100–160Wh needs the airline's agreement, and over 160Wh cannot be carried at all.