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United Launches Interactive Map Showing U.S. Travel Restrictions

The map features a color-coded map and a drop-down menu of more detailed restrictions and state-specific rules.

Aiming to make deciding where to travel a bit easier, as COVID-19 continues to spark restrictions and rules for traveling around the United States, United Airlines created an interactive, color-coded map detailing everything travelers need to know ahead of planning a trip.

The map lists everything from whether or not entry into a state is allowed, potential quarantine measures, testing requirements, and even mask mandates for all 50 states and Washington D.C., the company shared with Travel + Leisure . Travelers can see if restaurants, tourist sites, or hotels are open and if there are any specific restrictions in place.

"We know it's a challenge to keep up with the ever-changing list of travel restrictions, policies and regulations so we are offering a simple, easy tool that helps customers decide where to travel next," Linda Jojo, the executive vice president for technology and chief digital officer, said in a statement . "By providing the most up-to-date information on the destinations we serve, customers can compare and shop for travel with greater confidence and help them find the destinations that best fit their preferences."

The map's color-coded feature and drop-down menu offer more detailed restrictions and state-specific rules.

Several states have implemented quarantine or testing measures for out-of-state visitors. New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, for example, require travelers from dozens of states to self-isolate for two weeks when entering the tri-state area. Similarly, Hawaii requires visitors to quarantine and has pushed back its plan to welcome tourists again until at least October.

United’s new feature comes as the airline eliminated most change fees on domestic flights and committed to allowing all customers to fly same-day standby for free on both domestic and international flights. Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines then followed suit .

United isn’t alone in trying to inform passengers before hopping on a flight. Google Travel introduced a similar feature , linking to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travel Health Notices.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she’s not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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United Airlines Carry-on Bag Sizes, Rules, and Restrictions

Spencer Howard

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Table of Contents

United carry-on and personal item requirements, united express flights, united basic economy carry-on rules, final thoughts.

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If you plan to bring a carry-on bag and personal item with you on a United Airlines flight, make sure you know the rules and restrictions ahead of time so you can plan accordingly.

Travelers already face plenty of hassles at the airport, from long check-in lines to even longer security lines (if you don’t have TSA PreCheck ) to tiny cramped economy seats.

Today we’re going to discuss how you can avoid some of these obstacles when flying United with a carry-on and personal item.

Both carry-on bags and personal items are required to meet certain standards that are set by United. You may bring 1 of each with you when flying United (excluding Basic Economy on a non-transatlantic flight), but the requirements for each are different.

Carry-on Dimensions

When flying United, carry-on bags can be no larger than 9 x 14 x 22 inches (22 x 35 x 56 cm). These dimensions include wheels and handles, so make sure you include those in your measurements.

If your carry-on bag does not meet the dimension requirements, you could be forced to check your bag and pay United’s standard checked baggage fee.

Hot Tip:  Check out the best ways to  avoid checked baggage fees on United .

Unlike checked baggage, carry-ons don’t have to meet certain weight requirements to avoid an extra fee.

Personal Item Dimensions

Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Common items include backpacks , laptop bags , and purses. These bags can be no larger than 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm).

Like carry-on bags, personal items do not have to meet a weight requirement.

Additional Items

In addition to a carry-on bag and a personal item, primary cardmembers of an eligible Chase United MileagePlus card are permitted to bring some other items on board. These items include:

• Assistive devices (cane, crutches, etc.)
• Breast pump
• FAA-approved child restraint system or safety seat
• Food from the airport
• Merchandise from the airport
• Pet carrier (service charges will apply)
• Reading material

You must purchase your ticket(s) using your card in order to qualify.

Musical instruments such as guitars, violins, and other small instruments are permitted on board if the instrument is packed in a hard case and space is available in an overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.

If you choose to bring a musical instrument with you, it will count as part of your carry-on allowance, so keep that in mind when you’re packing.

What Items Are Allowed in Your Carry-on Bag?

The items allowed in your carry-on baggage are regulated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The TSA allows liquids, gels, and aerosols to be packed in your carry-on bag, provided they are in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 ml).

United Express flights are operated by regional airline partners that use smaller aircraft. As such, the overhead compartments have less space than on United’s mainline aircraft. Roller bags and larger carry-on bags often won’t fit in these overhead bins at all.

If this is the case, you may need to gate-check your carry-on before boarding. These gate-checked bags will not be sent to the baggage claim area when exiting the airport. Instead, they will be brought to you just outside the aircraft, often in the jet bridge.

If you are forced to gate check your carry-on bag, any personal vaporizers and e-cigarettes should be removed and stored in your personal item onboard.

You will not incur a fee to gate check your carry-on in this case.

United has introduced Basic Economy fares to compete with low-cost carriers such as Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines .

During the booking process, you can pay extra for an economy ticket that comes with a few more benefits. If you choose to keep your Basic Economy ticket, you won’t be allowed to bring a carry-on bag on board at all (unless you’re flying on a transatlantic, transpacific, or South American route).

You will still have the option to bring a personal item with you that can be stored under the seat in front of you, but that’s it.

If you go to the gate with a carry-on and you’re sitting in Basic Economy, you will be required to check the bag and pay the applicable checked bag fees plus a $25 gate handling fee.

Avoiding Basic Economy Carry-on Fees

If you are stuck with a Basic Economy ticket, there are 2 ways to ensure you can bring a full-size carry-on bag on board with you. One is easy, while the other is expensive and time-consuming.

If you pay for your Basic Economy ticket using a co-branded United credit card , you can bring your carry-on bag with you at no extra charge.

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

You travel United all the time, but you have heard that there could be ways to make your travel experiences even better, including priority boarding, free bags, and more miles.

You should consider the United℠ Explorer Card , because this card does all that and more!

• 2x miles per $1 on United purchases, dining purchases (including delivery services), and hotel stays
• 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
• First checked bag free for you and up to 1 traveling companion
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards
• Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United ® purchases
• Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck ® or NEXUS fee credit
• 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
• Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $140 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
• Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
• Member FDIC
• APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  None

United MileagePlus Frequent Flyer Program

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

The United Club℠ Infinite Card  is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.

United frequent flyers will find that the United Club Infinite card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.

• 4x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 on travel and dining purchases
• Complimentary United Club membership
• $525 annual fee
• Earn 80,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases
• Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United ®  purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access ® travel services
• 10% United Economy Saver Award discount within the continental U.S. and Canada
• Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

The newest addition to United’s lineup of cards is the United Quest℠ Card . With it, you can bolster your United MileagePlus miles, thanks to the bonus categories, while enjoying the card’s many perks designed to help save you money on each United flight.

With an annual fee that falls between the United℠ Explorer Card and United Club℠ Infinite Card , the United Quest card makes for a fantastic card option for United frequent flyers.

• 3x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 spent on travel, dining, and select streaming services
• $125 annual United credit
• Does not offer airport lounge access
• Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP after qualifying purchases
• Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United ® purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel, dining and select streaming services
• Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and priority boarding
• Up to a $125 United ® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply)
• Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)

The United Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.

The United Gateway℠ Card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without wanting to pay a credit card annual fee. Plus, the card offers other solid benefits like a 25% back on United inflight purchases, purchase protection, and rental car insurance.

• 2x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 at gas stations and on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services, taxicabs, train tickets, tolls, and mass transit
• If you are a frequent United flyer, other cards offer more perks
• It does not earn transferable rewards
• Earn 20,000 bonus miles
• No annual fee
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United ® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United ® purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent at gas stations, on local transit and commuting
• 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card
• APR: 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months; after that, 21.99% - 28.99% Variable

The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.

The United Club℠ Business Card is a premium card option for dedicated United loyalists seeking a card that offers complimentary United Club access, helps them earn and retain status, and doesn’t skip on the benefits.

From free checked bags to upgrades on award tickets and the ability to earn Premier qualifying points, there is plenty to the United Club Business card that United flyers are sure to love.

• 2x miles per $1 spent on United purchases
• 1.5x miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
• $450 annual fee
• Earning rate for United purchases is poor compared to other United cards
• Earn 50,000 bonus miles + 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
• Earn 2x miles on United purchases
• Earn 1.5x miles on all other purchases
• Employee cards at no additional cost
• United Club membership — up to a $650 value per year. Relax in comfort while waiting for your flight with complimentary beverages, snacks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and more
• Free first and second checked bags for you and a companion, save up to $320 per round-trip
• 25% back on United inflight purchases
• No foreign transaction fees
• APR: 21.99%–28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  $0

In addition to our 2 favorite cards above, a free carry-on bag is also included with these credit cards:

• Banorte United Credit Card
• Banorte United Universe Card
• First Hawaiian Bank United ® Card
• United Club℠ Business Card
• United MileagePlus ® Awards Card
• United℠ Business Card
• United℠ Presidential Plus℠ Business Card
• United℠ Presidential Plus℠ Card

The standard carry-on bag benefit also extends to your travel companions if they are traveling on the same reservation (and space permits).

The second way to avoid a fee is to have elite status with United or Star Alliance. If you hold MileagePlus Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, Premier 1K, or are a Star Alliance Gold member, you are permitted to bring a standard carry-on bag.

Earning status requires a high level of spending, so this is mostly applicable to business travelers who work for companies that pay for their travel.

Hot Tip:  Use a United MileagePlus credit card from Chase  if you have to purchase Basic Economy tickets so you can bring a carry-on bag with you.

How To Handle Basic Economy Bag Issues

So if you don’t hold elite status with United, what’s the best way to ensure you can bring your carry-on bag for free?

First, if you really want a carry-on with you so you can jet off the plane to a meeting or catch a train, use one of the co-branded United cards to book your flight. This is the easiest way to ensure you can bring both your personal item and carry-on on board, even with a Basic Economy ticket.

If you don’t have one of the co-branded cards, don’t try to sneak a carry-on bag on board — it’s unlikely to work. When stopped you, you’ll be on the hook for the standard checked bag fee of $30 plus the additional $25 gate handling fee.

Rather than going through this hassle and paying double, plan ahead by putting everything you can in a checked bag and only keep essentials such as medicines in your personal item. By checking the bag at the United check-in desk, you’ll still have to cover the checked bag fee — but it will be half of what you’d pay at the gate.

Finally, if you’re going to check a bag, pay for it with a credit card such as the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  or the  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card where you can redeem your miles for a statement credit against travel charges within the last 90 days .

While you might have a carry-on bag, using one of these cards can offset any extra cost you will be charged. Keep in mind that to use an American Express airline fee credit on checked bags with United, you must designate United as your selected airline before making the purchase.

If you book a ticket in first class, business class, or economy class, carry-on baggage and personal items won’t be much of a worry for you. Just make sure they fit the required dimensions.

It’s when you’re stuck in Basic Economy that you need to consider your needs. You’re likely going to have to check a bag if you want to bring anything more than a personal item, so planning ahead is advisable. Fortunately, you can use any of several credit cards to offset the checked baggage fees.

This is just another hassle to flying Basic Economy, but with the right information in hand, you can at least make the best of a frustrating situation.

The information regarding the Banorte United Credit Card, Banorte United Universe Card, First Hawaiian Bank United ® Card, United MileagePlus ® Awards Card, United℠ Presidential Plus℠ Business Card and United℠ Presidential Plus℠ Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the United Club℠ Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does united allow you to bring a carry-on bag for basic economy fares.

No, if you’ve booked a Basic Economy fare you will have to pay extra for a carry-on bag. This excludes flights to/from South America, transatlantic, and transpacific regions.

What are the United carry-on dimensions?

The United carry-on dimensions are 9 x 14 x 22 inches (22 x 35 x 56 cm).

Are carry-ons free on United?

Passengers may bring 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item, with the exception of those with a Basic Economy ticket (unless you’re flying on a transatlantic, transpacific, or South American route). Basic Economy passengers may only bring 1 personal item on board.

Can I have a backpack and a carry-on on United?

Yes, you’re allowed to bring 1 carry-on bag (9 x 14 x 22 inches (22 x 35 x 56 cm)) and 1 personal item (9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm)) on most flights.

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About Spencer Howard

Always a fan of flying, it was only natural that Spencer was drawn to finding a way to improve the travel experience.

Like many, he started this journey searching for cheap flights to take him around the world. This was fun for a while, but Spencer was intrigued by the idea of flying in business and first class!

Throwing himself into what became an extensive research project, Spencer spent 3-4 hours per night learning everything he could about frequent flyer miles over the course of several months (he thinks this is normal). He runs Straight to the Points, an award-seat alert platform.

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The Latest on U.S. Travel Restrictions

By Lauren Hard Oct. 19, 2021

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What to Know: U.S. Travel Restrictions

Beginning today, international visitors who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus can enter the United States by air or across the land borders with Canada and Mexico.

Here’s the latest →

The new policy ends an 18-month ban on nonessential travel from 33 countries, including China, Brazil and European Union members. The ban had affected tourists and those hoping to visit family and friends in the U.S.

The rules reorient the U.S. approach to vetting its visitors during the pandemic.

Instead of basing entry decisions on travelers’ countries of origin, the U.S. is focusing on vaccination status.

International visitors flying into the U.S. now need to show proof of vaccination before boarding and a negative coronavirus test taken within three days of their flight.

The three vaccines available in the U.S. — Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson — are accepted, as are vaccines cleared for emergency use by the W.H.O., including AstraZeneca and Covaxin.

Unvaccinated foreign visitors cannot enter the country, with limited exemptions.

Unvaccinated Americans returning home need to test negative for the coronavirus within one day of their flight and show proof they have purchased another test to take after arriving.

The hope is with these longstanding bans being lifted, the U.S. tourism industry will start to recover. The halt on travel caused a loss of nearly $300 billion in visitor spending, according to the U.S. Travel Association.

Keep up with the latest travel news, trends and feature stories.

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Coronavirus Updates

The u.s. lifts the pandemic travel ban and opens the doors to international visitors.

The Associated Press

Passengers walk through Salt Lake City International Airport, Oct. 27, 2020. More than a year and a half after COVID-19 concerns prompted the U.S. to close its borders to international travelers from countries including Brazil, China, India, South Africa, the U.K. and much of Europe, restrictions are shifting to focus on vaccine status. Rick Bowmer/AP hide caption

Passengers walk through Salt Lake City International Airport, Oct. 27, 2020. More than a year and a half after COVID-19 concerns prompted the U.S. to close its borders to international travelers from countries including Brazil, China, India, South Africa, the U.K. and much of Europe, restrictions are shifting to focus on vaccine status.

The U.S. lifted restrictions Monday on travel from a long list of countries including Mexico, Canada and most of Europe, allowing tourists to make long-delayed trips and family members to reconnect with loved ones after more than a year and a half apart because of the pandemic.

Starting Monday, the U.S. is accepting fully vaccinated travelers at airports and land borders, doing away with a COVID-19 restriction that dates back to the Trump administration. The new rules allow air travel from previously restricted countries as long as the traveler has proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test. Land travel from Mexico and Canada will require proof of vaccination but no test.

Airlines are expecting more travelers from Europe and elsewhere. Data from travel and analytics firm Cirium showed airlines are increasing flights between the United Kingdom and the U.S. by 21% this month over last month.

The change will have a profound effect on the borders with Mexico and Canada, where traveling back and forth was a way of life until the pandemic hit and the U.S. shut down nonessential travel.

Malls, restaurants and Main Street shops in U.S. border towns have been devastated by the lack of visitors from Mexico. On the boundary with Canada, cross-border hockey rivalries were community traditions until being upended by the pandemic. Churches that had members on both sides of the border are hoping to welcome parishioners they haven't seen during COVID-19 shutdown.

Loved ones have missed holidays, birthdays and funerals while nonessential air travel was barred, and they are now eager to reconnect.

River Robinson's American partner wasn't able to be in Canada for the birth of their baby boy 17 months ago because of pandemic-related border closures. She was thrilled to hear the U.S. is reopening its land crossings to vaccinated travelers.

"I'm planning to take my baby down for the American Thanksgiving," said Robinson, who lives in St. Thomas, Ontario. "If all goes smoothly at the border I'll plan on taking him down as much as I can. Is crazy to think he has a whole other side of the family he hasn't even met yet."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. will accept travelers who have been fully vaccinated with any of the vaccines approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization, not just those in use in the U.S. That means that the AstraZeneca vaccine, widely used in Canada, will be accepted.

For air travelers, the airlines are required to verify vaccine records and match them against ID, and if they don't, they could face fines of up to nearly $35,000 per violation. Airlines will also collect information about passengers for contact tracing efforts. There will be CDC workers spot-checking travelers for compliance in the U.S. At land borders, Customs and Border Protection agents will check vaccine proof.

The moves come as the U.S. has seen its COVID-19 outlook improve dramatically in recent weeks since the summer delta surge that pushed hospitals to the brink in many locations.

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United Airlines Carry-On Policy: Rules & Tips To Avoid Fees!

United carry-on size, carry-on weight limit, recommended carry-on bag, other items allowed (in addition to your personal item), united express carry-on rules (regional planes), united airlines liquids, prohibited items:, related articles.

Before you fly United, it’s very important to make sure you understand United Airlines Carry on Policy. They have specific guidelines for carry-on sizes, liquids, and other items that you may want to bring on board. Especially, if you bought a basic economy ticket!

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about United’s carry-on policy. This includes carry-on size & weight limits, liquid policy, personal items, and other restrictions you should know before boarding your next flight.

United Carry-On Policy

United Airlines allows you to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard with you at no additional charge. Your personal item must be small enough to be stored under the seat in front of you. The Carry-on bag must fit in the overhead compartment.

However, there is an exception if you purchased a basic economy ticket. With United Basic Economy, you are only allowed to bring a personal item with you. Carry-on bags are not included unless you’re flying to South America, across the Atlantic or on an international flight across the Pacific. You can prepay to check a bag or check a carry-on at your gate for the regular bag fee plus an additional $25.

United requires your carry-on bag to be no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm), including the handle and wheels of the bag. Your personal item can be no larger than 9 x 10 x 17 in (22 x 25 x 43 cm).

If you aren’t sure what size your carry-on is or if it will fit in the overhead bin, United provides “carry-on bag sizers” located at their ticketing counters for you to double check.

If any bags are larger than the carry-on size listed above, or if you bring additional items, you’ll have to check them to your final destination.   Additional charges may apply.

As a rule, United Airlines does not impose weight restrictions on carry-on bags. However, when checking a bag, the weight limit is 50 pounds per bag.

If you are looking for a great carry-on bag when flying United, I recommend the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner. I have used this carry-on for years. It’s durable, reasonably priced, and holds everything I need for shorter trips. Plus the spinner wheels make it very easy to get through the airport quickly.

This carry-on bag has been sizer bin tested to accommodate overhead bin space on most major US airlines.

Case Dimensions:

• H: 21 in. W: 14 in. D: 9 in.

Note: If fully expanded it may not meet overhead bin size limits, so be careful to not overpack.

United Airlines Personal Item

United Airlines allows you to bring a personal item onboard with you as long as it will fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions for a personal item are 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm).

Personal items include items such as a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack.

In addition to your one carry-on bag and personal item, you can bring the following items on board:

• An umbrella
• Reading material
• Food or merchandise that you buy at the airport
• Assistive devices (such as a collapsible wheelchair, cane, or crutches)
• FAA-approved child restraint system or safety seat
• Breast pump

United’s regional partner airlines (United Express or CommuteAir) use smaller planes with limited overhead space.  If your carry-on is larger than the personal item dimensions, you will have to gate-check your bag before boarding.

All carry-on bags within United Airlines’ size restrictions will be gate checked, free of charge, during the boarding process and returned upon deplaning.   You will not have to go to baggage claim to retrieve your bag, it will be delivered to the jet bridge outside the plane door.

Despite this “official rule” there are some bags that can easily fit on a regional jet.  Check out this article on the best carry-on luggage for regional jets .

The rules for carry-on liquids are set by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), not by the airline.  United enforces the rules and policies of the TSA.

It’s also important to note that the rules for bringing a “liquid” in your carry-on bag are different from the rules that govern what you can bring in your checked luggage. Liquids in a carry-on bag must be 3.4 ounces or smaller and fit in a 1 quart-sized container. Anything larger must be placed in your checked luggage.

Exceptions to this rule are certain medications and baby food/child nourishment .

Prohibited Items

There are certain items that are considered dangerous and classified as a hazardous materials. Dangerous goods are prohibited from both your carry-on and checked bag on all flights. These rules are not specific to any airline and are mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Here is a list of items that are considered dangerous goods and are strictly prohibited on United Airlines flights:

• Firearms and ammunition
• Self-defense sprays, such as mace and  pepper spray
• Explosives, including fireworks and flares
• Flammable liquids, including gasoline, lighter fluid, and kerosene
• Poisonous, infectious, or radioactive substances
• Knives and sharp objects (pocket knives, cutting instruments,  razors , ice picks, carpet knives, metal scissors, box cutters, or similar items) 
• Any alcoholic beverage with more than 70 percent alcohol
• Camping equipment containing flammable liquids or gasses 
• Hoverboards, including electric skateboards, balance boards, gravity boards, and self-balancing devices
• Medical or liquid oxygen 
• Torch lighters , lighter fluid, strike-anywhere matches, and fire starters
• Wet-cell batteries

It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list and that the TSA’s rules and regulations are subject to change. Additional prohibited or restricted goods and materials can be found in the following resources:

• IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations
• TSA Permitted and Prohibited Items
• FAA Packsafe List

Summary: United Airlines Carry-On Policy

If you understand the fine print and comply with United Airlines’ carry-on policy you will avoid additional fees and delays at the airport. It’s very important to review United’s policy before packing for your flight and to ensure that all bags meet the requirements when you arrive at the airport.

By doing so, you can avoid potential problems and enjoy a smooth and stress-free travel experience with United Airlines. Here is a link to United’s Carry-On Rules page to make sure you have the most up-to-date information.

• How to get a refund from United Airlines
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Tim is a business road warrior and avid leisure traveler who has flown over two million miles in the air and spent well over a thousand nights in hotels. He enjoys sharing tips, tricks, and hacks to help readers get the most out of their travel experience and learn how to “travel like a pro”!

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How to change or cancel a United Airlines flight

United Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the U.S., so — especially if you live near one of its hubs — there's a good chance you'll find yourself booked on a United Airlines flight at some point in the future. But travel plans can change quickly . So it's in your best interest to know United's cancellation policy and how to change or cancel a United flight.

When United Airlines' CEO Scott Kirby announced that the airline was eliminating many change fees early in the pandemic, he significantly altered the landscape. To help you cover your bases, this guide will go through all of United's change and cancellation policies, including when you can get a United Airlines refund.

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Canceling or changing United tickets during a travel waiver

United often issues travel waivers when it expects to cancel or delay many flights. These travel waivers generally let United passengers change or cancel their flights for free, reducing congestion at the gate or the ticket counter. Specifics vary based on the given situation, so make sure to read up on the specifics of your travel waiver if you find yourself eligible to take advantage of one.

Even with change fees eliminated on virtually all flights, travel waivers can still play a key role in saving you money. When a travel waiver is in place, you can generally change to an alternative flight with the same routing and avoid paying any fare difference as long as you stay in the same cabin as your original ticket. You'll also find more flexibility on routing and sometimes even alternate destination airports.

United usually shows travel waivers at the top of its homepage. Further, United will usually email you if you're eligible for a travel waiver. So, keep an eye on your inbox if you think a travel waiver could be in effect for your travel dates.

Note that if you booked a United flight through an online travel agency (OTA) like Kayak or Expedia, you might not be able to change or cancel your ticket on United's website. Instead, you will likely have to call the OTA through which you booked your ticket to request a change or cancellation. Thankfully, all fees covered by the waiver will still be waived — though your call experience may not be ideal .

The exception to this rule are tickets booked through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal , Capital One Travel portal or Amex Travel . You can change United airfare booked through these portals on the United website, which can save you a ton of time compared to changing or canceling over the phone. To do this, find your itinerary on the United website and click the cancel or change buttons at the top of the screen.

Related: Why you should think twice before booking with an obscure online travel agency

Changing or canceling paid United tickets

Canceling or changing paid United tickets is much less painful than it used to be. However, one type of paid United ticket isn't eligible for changes or cancellations: basic economy fares . Unfortunately, you can only adjust these fares under very specific circumstances.

If you're not eligible for a waiver, you generally won't be allowed to make any changes at all to your basic economy ticket. For pretty much everything else, the answer is easy. If you're traveling within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii), Canada or Mexico, there are no change fees. And, there are no change fees if you book an international flight that originates in the U.S.

Generally, United won't issue refunds to your original form of payment for canceled tickets. Instead, you'll be issued a travel certificate that you can use toward a future flight. This certificate will be for the value of your ticket minus the cancellation fee incurred. For example, in the case of a $300 domestic ticket from Newark to Chicago, you'll receive a $300 voucher. If you rebook that flight a month later for $200, you'll receive a new voucher for the remaining $100. Note that you still must use the new voucher within one year of your original ticketing date, so you can't extend the booking time frame by purchasing a cheap ticket with part of your voucher.

Refundable fares can be canceled and refunded to the original form of payment any time before the flight departs. These tickets can be canceled online or by calling the United Reservations desk, though we highly recommend canceling online to save time.

Related: How to refund a nonrefundable airline ticket

Changing or canceling United award tickets

As you'd expect, United award tickets can be changed or canceled too. When United announced the elimination of change fees on paid tickets, they also did away with many of the fees associated with changing award tickets and redepositing miles. If you're just changing your flight, you won't pay any fees at all. However, you may have to pay a fee to redeposit miles into your MileagePlus account.

Related: Best credit cards for flying United

The exact amount you'll pay to redeposit the miles from an award ticket depends on your United Premier elite status and when your flight departs. You'll pay less to redeposit the miles from a ticket if you cancel further in advance, and those with elite status will receive a discounted (or completely waived) redeposit fee, depending on their elite status tier.

There are currently no fees to cancel and redeposit miles 31 or more days before departure for all customers. But here's how much you can expect to pay to redeposit miles if you need to cancel within 30 days of departure.

Interestingly enough, United is one of the only airlines that will refund your mileage if you don't show up for a flight. A mileage redeposit after a no-show costs $125 regardless of your flight or status tier. While this is a hefty price to pay, it can be worth it if you forget to cancel an international business-class trip or another high-value award ticket .

You can change or cancel a United award ticket by finding your reservation on the United website and clicking either the cancel or change flight options at the top of the screen. Mileage redeposits from canceling United award tickets will generally appear in your account the same day United processes the cancellation.

Related: How to book multiple trips for the price of one by maximizing United's routing rules

Changing or canceling United tickets booked with credit card points

United tickets booked through credit card travel portals like the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal , Amex Travel or Citi ThankYou Travel portal are treated like revenue tickets. That means they follow the rules above and carry virtually no fees for changing or canceling.

Related: When is it better to use the Chase portal instead of airline transfer partners?

How do you change or cancel your United flight?

United flights booked through United.com can be canceled or changed right on the United website. To do this, head to United's website and do the following:

• Log in to your United account.
• Click the "My trips" button on the homepage.
• Click the "Manage trip" button to the right of the trip you'd like to change or cancel.
• Click the "Change flight or Cancel flight" button at the top of the screen.
• Follow the on-screen prompts.

When you cancel a paid ticket, United will send you a voucher to use toward a future United purchase.

If you're unable to access your reservation online — for example, if you booked with an OTA — you must call the OTA you booked with to cancel or change your ticket.

Finally, United also offers same-day changes for both paid and award tickets. As part of eliminating change fees, United also got rid of the same-day change fees for all MileagePlus Premier members. If the fare bucket you originally booked isn't available on the flight you want to change to, you will need to pay the fare difference.

In the case of award tickets, there must be a flight available in the same cabin you booked to change your flight. You can make same-day changes at check-in or by pulling up your reservation and selecting the same-day change option.

Related: Going home a day early: A successful use of United's no change fee policy

When can you get a United Airlines refund?

With change fees a thing of the past (at least for now), purchasing the cheapest paid tickets on United still means that you won't get your money back. In most cases, you'll receive a voucher to use for a future flight. But, there are still a couple of instances where you can get a refund back to your original payment method.

Within 24 hours of booking

The U.S. Department of Transportation requires that all airlines give customers a 24-hour window to cancel flights after booking , as long as your reservation is ticketed at least seven days before departure.

During this grace period, you can cancel your ticket on United.com with no penalty and all refunds will be processed to the original form of payment. This is a great way to lock in a price while you finalize other travel arrangements, since your ticket isn't non-refundable until 24 hours have elapsed.

Do note that group tickets and tickets purchased using an e-certificate are ineligible for a refund during the 24-hour grace period.

Schedule changes

You may be able to cancel a United flight for free if you experience a significant schedule change. This usually happens when you book a flight far in advance, as United doesn't finalize its flight schedules until the beginning of each season.

United's refund policy includes a bit of uncertainty about whether a schedule change qualifies for a refund, though. The policy states, in part:

Provided that if such alternate transportation results in a significant change to the originally scheduled departure or arrival times and the Passenger chooses not to accept such alternate transportation, United will (at the Passenger's request) provide a refund.

Even in this case, the airline will process your refund in the form of a flight credit. If you haven't used this statement credit within a year, you can ask United for a refund to your original payment method.

Alternatively, you can ask United to accommodate you on a different flight if the new schedule doesn't work for your travels.

United will notify you about these changes as soon as they're made, but you should make a habit of reviewing your itineraries proactively, too. If you're subject to a flight change, United will ask you to accept the new changes when you pull up your itinerary online.

Flight cancellations

There are times when airlines may cancel your flights outright. There are a few times when this can happen well in advance of your planned travel. One is when an airline anticipates decreased demand on a route, and another is when an airline makes major changes to its route network.

You could also deal with a last-minute cancellation due to weather, mechanical problems or issues with your flight crew. If you're subject to an outright cancellation on United, you can ask United to accommodate you on a different flight. Likewise, you may have luck asking for a full refund of your ticket.

Related: Why you should wait to change or cancel your flight if you want your money back

Special circumstances

There are several other circumstances where United may waive cancellation fees . For example, the death of a traveler on your itinerary or a change in military orders will generally make you entitled to a full refund of your ticket without penalty. Just make sure to have documentation on hand to prove this special circumstance.

Further, even if your specific reason for canceling or changing a flight isn't covered by a waiver, there's no harm in calling United to plea your case. A sympathetic phone representative may offer a one-time exception and cancel your flight without a fee. Just make sure to be friendly to the representative regardless of the outcome.

Bottom line

Canceling a trip is never fun, but knowing United's cancellation policy and how to avoid fees can help. Make sure to keep these tips in mind the next time you need to cancel a United flight. Doing so could save you hundreds of dollars if you're subject to a travel waiver, schedule change or another circumstance that could make you eligible for a fee waiver or refund.

Additional reporting by Edward Pizzarello.

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United Airlines says it has regained some privileges that were suspended after problem flights

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CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines said Thursday that federal regulators are letting it resume planning for growth after they imposed restrictions on the airline following a series of flight mishaps earlier this year, including an engine fire and a tire falling off a plane.

United said the Federal Aviation Administration “has allowed us to begin the process of restarting our certification activities, including new aircraft and routes.”

The FAA indicated, however, that it has not made any final decisions from its review of the airline, which began in March.

“The FAA has not approved any expansion of United Airlines’ routes or fleets,” an agency spokesperson said in a statement. The FAA said its review of the airline “is ongoing, and safety will determine the timeline for completing it.”

The FAA is insisting on being present when United personnel make final inspections of new planes that replace older ones.

In a memo to employees, United said the ability to resume planning for growth was “good news,” but it noted that FAA inspectors were still reviewing the airline’s work processes, manuals and facilities.

The FAA increased its oversight of Chicago-based United after a series of flight problems.

In one, a piece of aluminum skin fell off a plane flying from San Francisco to Oregon. Another plane lost a tire after takeoff from San Francisco, and another suffered an engine fire in Houston.

Pilots reported that rudder pedals used to steer on the runway failed after landing in Newark, New Jersey, and another plane rolled off a taxiway in Houston.

The incidents led United CEO Scott Kirby to assure customers the airline was safe.

Kirby said the events were unrelated but they “have our attention and have sharpened our focus.” He said United would review each incident to see if changes were needed in safety training and procedures.

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The Guide to United Travel Insurance

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United Airlines' travel insurance aims to protect you if your trip is delayed, your baggage is lost or other travel mishaps occur. But the United Airlines flight insurance plan is far from comprehensive. Let’s look at what the policy covers, how to buy it and whether it's a good fit for you.

About United Airlines travel insurance

United’s flight insurance isn’t underwritten by United Airlines. While you can purchase a policy via United’s website, it’s actually issued by AIG and is called the Travel Guard plan.

United Travel Guard insurance is focused on benefits during your air travel, though it does have limited coverage beyond your flight time.

» Learn more: How much is travel insurance?

United trip insurance

Two policies are available via the United website: The Domestic Air Ticket plan and the International Air Ticket plan.

To get a sample quote, we put in two different flights. The first was a one-way economy class flight from San Diego to Newark, New Jersey. The total for the flight came out to $755.70, and the insurance premium offered totaled $60.46.

In our second quote, we checked out an economy class flight from London-Heathrow to Boston. A one-way ticket came out to $1,624.35, and the insurance policy quote was returned at $117.77

Here’s how the plans compare to one another.

The coverage for the policies is fairly similar whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally. However, international travel includes emergency medical and higher limits for issues with luggage. It’s also correspondingly more expensive.

» Learn more: How does travel insurance work?

What isn’t covered by United Airlines insurance

United’s travel insurance has generous policy limits.

They don’t ask you how much your trip cost and price the maximums accordingly; instead, there’s a flat rate benefit for trip interruption and trip delay, which can be great if you’re embarking on a more expensive vacation.

United’s travel insurance includes coverage for pre-existing conditions if you purchase a policy when booking your ticket.

However, this travel insurance isn’t comprehensive. While you’ll get superior benefits if you’re traveling abroad, other plans offer more customization.

Notably, these plans don't allow you to add any supplemental coverage, such as Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance, flight accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage and rental car insurance.

» Learn more: Trip cancellation insurance explained

Note that United’s website specifically calls out COVID-19 as a foreseen event, meaning that trip cancellation, trip interruption and trip delay as a result of quarantine will not be covered.

However, emergency medical benefits will still apply.

» Learn more: What to know about travel insurance for pre-existing conditions

How to buy United Airlines trip insurance online

When purchasing a ticket.

There are two ways to purchase United Airlines travel insurance online. The first is to do so when you’re booking your flight.

You’ll want to start at United’s home page, where you can input your travel information.

After you click Find Flights, you’ll be taken to a results page, where you can peruse available options.

You’ll be able to select which flight suits your needs, after which you’ll begin the checkout process. Here you’ll need to put down all your personal information, including name, date of birth and frequent flyer number.

United will then take you through a couple pages of extras asking you if you’d like to purchase Wi-Fi or choose your seats. Once this is done, you’ll be presented with the United insurance page.

Here you can select whether or not you’d like to purchase the insurance. After this, you’ll be prompted to input your card information. Your payment will be processed (including the insurance) and then your ticket will be issued.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

If you already have a ticket

Adding United’s insurance to a ticket you’ve already purchased is possible. To do so, you’ll either want to log into your account or search for your trip using your booking code and name.

If you’re logging in, you’ll want to click My Trips, then Manage Trip to get to the insurance page.

This will bring up of your trip details including flight numbers and upgrade options. Scrolling down to the Trip Extras section, you can purchase insurance.

» Learn more: Common travel insurance myths

Should you buy United travel insurance?

United Airlines makes it easy to purchase travel insurance by bundling it with your airfare purchase. However, you’ll always want to double-check the coverage and customizability to see if it fits your travel plans.

You’ll also want to gather multiple quotes before committing to a purchase. Sites such as Squaremouth gather providers from a variety of companies to generate a quote and get you the best deal.

Otherwise, many travel credit cards offer complimentary travel insurance as long as you pay for the trip with your card.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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United Airlines says travel demand is coming from this key city

W hile many airlines have initially thrown all their resources into launching new routes to smaller European cities amid a spike in American tourists to the continent post-pandemic, the tide is starting to shift toward demand for other continents.

At the start of spring 2024, United Airlines  ( UAL )  announced new flights to Tokyo and Cebu in the Philippines for the summer while also increasing the number of flights it runs to Shanghai, Seoul and Hong Kong from the West Coast of the United States. Delta Air Lines  ( DAL )  and Norse Atlantic  ( NRSAF )  have both set their sights on Africa with either new or returning flights to Ghana and South Africa.

Related: Floodgates opened: Another airline brings back direct flight to Africa

Amid competitors’ interest in the latter, United Airlines’ Director of Sales for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, India, and Israel Thorsten Lettnin told aviation website Simple Flying that the airline sees strong opportunities in expansion to Cape Town. The airline launched its first flight to Cape Town from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in 2019 and currently runs 13 weekly flights to the country from the U.S. — six flights a week to Johannesburg and a daily service to Cape Town.

United speaks of ‘stable demand throughout the year, further growth opportunities’

“If you look at the demand for travel to Cape Town specifically, one would think that it is volatile and goes with the temperature, i.e., there's less demand during the South African winter,” Lettnin told Simple Flying. “However, if you look at the international arrivals from the United States to South Africa, it's within a relatively narrow corridor. There is stable demand throughout the entire year, which shows us there are potentially further growth opportunities.”

More on travel:

• Another National Park just made it more difficult for you to visit
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As explained by Lettnin, traveler numbers between the U.S. and Cape Town formerly used to be more seasonal but are currently seeing high demand amid a rise in people taking long-awaited trips to faraway destinations post-pandemic. Over the last three years, United has been working to expand its partnership with South African airline Airlink so that passengers could connect to more destinations on the African continent with Cape Town or Johannesburg as a hub.

Related: A country just went visa-free for visitors with any passport

More airlines are setting their sights on Africa (here is why)

Growing demand for Africa has been slowly getting noticed (and acted upon) in the aviation industry. Back in April, budget airline Norse Atlantic challenged the existing duopoly of travelers having to pick between either British Airways and South African Airways to go between Cape Town and London with a new flight for significantly less than offered by a mainstream airline.

The flight to Cape Town from London Gatwick International Airport (LGW) will start running on Oct. 28 and cost around $600 each way. The current range for a mainstream carrier currently starts at $2,000 for a round-trip. 

"We are thrilled to introduce our new route between London and Cape Town," Norse Founder and CEO Bjorn Tore Larsen said in a statement at the time. "At Norse Atlantic Airways, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the wonders of the world and our new route to Cape Town will allow many more people to visit this amazing destination.”

Related: Veteran fund manager picks favorite stocks for 2024

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What Can I Bring?

Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. Read about civil penalties for prohibited items .

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The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

Officers may ask you to power up your electronic device, including cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. TSA does not read or copy information from your device.

Alcoholic beverages

• Carry On Bags: Yes (Less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed)
• Checked Bags: Yes

Check with your airline before bringing any alcohol beverages on board. FAA regulations prohibit travelers from consuming alcohol on board an aircraft unless served by a flight attendant.  Additionally, Flight Attendants are not permitted to serve a passenger who is intoxicated.

Alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol are limited in checked bags to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger and must be in unopened retail packaging. Alcoholic beverages with 24% alcohol or less are not subject to limitations in checked bags. 

Mini bottles of alcohol in carry-on must be able to comfortably fit into a single quart-sized bag.

For more information, see FAA regulation: 49 CFR 175.10(a)(4).

Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof

• Carry On Bags: No
• Checked Bags: No

Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol (over 140 proof), including grain alcohol and 151 proof rum. For more information, see FAA regulation: 49 CFR 175.10(a)(4).

• Carry On Bags: Yes

Baby food is allowed in reasonable quantities in carry-on bags. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings. Please see traveling with children for more information.

Baby Formula

• Carry On Bags: Yes (Special Instructions)

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) are considered medically necessary liquids. This also applies to breast milk and formula cooling accessories, such as ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs (regardless of presence of breast milk). Your child or infant does not need to be present or traveling with you to bring breast milk, formula and/or related supplies.

Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in excess of 3.4 ounces. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from your other belongings. TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items.

Although not required, to expedite the screening process, it is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches. Liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be able to be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners, and you may be asked to open them (if feasible) for alternate screening such as Explosive Trace Detection and Vapor Analysis for the presence of liquid explosives. Screening will never include placing anything into the medically necessary liquid.

TSA X-ray machines do not adversely affect food or medicines. However, if you do not want the formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) to be X-rayed or opened, please inform the TSA officer. Additional steps will be taken to clear the liquid and you or the traveling guardian will undergo additional screening procedures, to include Advanced Imaging Technology screening and additional/enhanced screening of other carry-on property.

Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) – regardless of the presence of breast milk – are also allowed in carry-ons, along with liquid-filled teethers. If these items are partially frozen or slushy, they are subject to the same screening as described above.

Please see  traveling with children  for more information.

Travelers requiring special accommodations or concerned about the security screening process at the airport may request assistance by contacting TSA Cares online at http://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares or by phone at (855) 787-2227 or federal relay 711.

Bottled Water

Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked bags. Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible.

TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine. Travelers are encouraged to organize their carry-on bags and keep them uncluttered to ease the screening process and keep the lines moving.

Breast Milk

Canned foods.

There are some items that are not on the prohibited items list, but because of how they appear on the X-ray, security concerns, or impact of the 3-1-1 rules for liquids, gels and aerosols, they could require additional screening that might result in the item not being allowed through the checkpoint. We suggest that you pack this item in your checked bag, ship it to your destination or leave it at home.

Check with your airline or travel agent to see if firearms are permitted in checked baggage on the airline you are flying. Ask about limitations or fees, if any, that apply.

Any sharp objects in checked baggage should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and Security Officers.

Sharp Objects

Household & tools, sporting & camping, miscellaneous.

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International flights traveling to Newark forced to make emergency diversions after high winds

By CBS New York Team

Updated on: March 30, 2024 / 12:38 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW WINDSOR, N.Y. -- Two flights traveling to New Jersey's Newark International Airport were forced to divert and make emergency landings amid high winds on Friday. 

United Airlines Flight 85 out of Tel Aviv was headed to Newark Liberty International Airport, but it was diverted to Stewart Airport in upstate New York due to high winds and turbulence. It landed safely around 6:45 p.m. There were approximately 200 passengers on board, according to the Orange County executive.

Emergency crews were waiting to check passengers out and take people to local hospitals. Five were hospitalized, and one person refused medical treatment, officials told CBS News. 

"On arrival, our first EMS unit on the scene was encountered by a flight crew ... They advised our crew that they had multiple people on the plane complaining of nausea, some chest pain from the turbulence," said Michael Big, chief of operations for New Windsor EMS. "We transported seven to the local hospital for just some observation. No serious injuries or ailments, but most people wanted to get checked out at the local emergency room."

The United flight refueled and took off again to Newark, but some passengers opted to take a bus. The Federal Aviation Administration says it is investigating.

Also traveling to Newark Airport was Austrian Airlines Flight 89, but the flight was diverted to Stewart Airport. Port Authority said the Austrian Airlines flight was "only diverted for additional fuel." The landing was described as a "fuel & go." 

No injuries were reported. 

• United Airlines
• Orange County
• Newark Liberty International Airport

The CBS New York Team is a group of experienced journalists who bring you New York web coverage on cbsnews.com.

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United Airlines flight turns around due to 'disruptive passenger'

A United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Taipei, Taiwan turned around hours into its journey due to a “disruptive passenger” on Thursday, the airline said.

“Law enforcement officials met the aircraft on arrival and removed the passenger,” a United spokesperson told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. “The flight departed for Taipei later Thursday evening.” The airline did not share specifics about the passenger’s behavior.

The flight, which left from San Francisco International Airport, reversed course less than two hours after takeoff, according to the flight-tracking website FlightRadar24 .

The incident is not the only one of its kind in recent months. A Delta Air Lines flight from Detroit to Amsterdam diverted to Boston because of an unruly passenger in May, and a United flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to Tel Aviv, Israel turned back because of a disruptive traveler in April.

Get a hold of yourselves: Why air rage on airplanes is every traveler's problem

The rate of unruly-passenger incidents has dropped more than 80% after hitting record highs in 2021, according to the Federal Aviation Administration . The agency received 2,455 reports of unruly passengers in 2022, down from 5,973 the previous year.

The FAA has received 1,034 reports of unruly passengers this year, as of July 16.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].