Doggone! It happened to us. Not too long ago, among the last passengers boarding a flight, we dragged a couple of wheeled bags along the coach section aisle.

We, along with the usual bumping and cussing, tried to squeeze them in the already stuffed overhead. Then, a harried flight attendant told us and several others to give up, get back to the airport desk and check our big, fat carry-ons. Grumbling, we had to comply.

United recently informed passengers that the onboard baggage rules are now being more strictly enforced. Attendants won’t wait until the overheads are already clogged. Before passengers board, measuring bins at United check-in desks will catch size and weight offenders as they arrive.

Basically, with United and many other airlines, each passenger in coach section is allowed one carry-on bag that fits into the overhead, up to size 9 x 14 x 22 inches. Also permitted is a purse, small backpack or laptop that fits under the seat in front. Before you attempt to beat the rules on your next flight, go to www.united.com for the latest info.