- 25 Sep, 2024
United Airlines offers several convenient fare classes for travelers, including Economy, Basic Economy, Economy Plus, and other Premium Classes. If you are traveling for the first time with United and wondering what the difference is between the Basic Economy, Economy, and Economy Plus or whether the difference matters enough to pay the higher fares. Thus, the significant difference is the extra leg space. Still, to determine the difference, you can look at the information below, including checked baggage allowance, seats, and other restrictions.
The following information contains the breakdown of these three fare types of United based on different features.
Baggage Allowance:
Basic Economy:
- In United Airlines Basic Economy, passengers may be required to purchase checked luggage and an additional fee starting from $35 for the first bag on a domestic flight.
- An overhead carry-on bag is complimentary only on transatlantic and transpacific flights; otherwise, it is prohibited.
Economy:
- To bring a checked bag in United Airlines Economy, travelers must pay a checked bag fee of nearly $35 for the first bag and more for the second bag, depending on the travel destination.
- Thus, United Airlines Economy class passengers can bring a standard-size carry-on bag for free on domestic and international flights.
Economy Plus:
- If you are flying with Economy Plus, the customer may be required to pay the checked baggage fee of approximately $35 for the first luggage.
- Therefore, the carry-on bag on Economy Plus is free unless the baggage does not exceed the total dimension and weight.
Seat Assignment:
Basic Economy: If you have purchased Basic Economy on United Airines, then the Airline automatically assigns the seats.
Economy: The United Economy Fare allows travelers to choose their seats for free.
Economy Plus: Passengers can choose their seats for free in the front section of Economy.
Qualifies for Elite membership, including Upgrades:
Basic Economy: Passengers get opportunities to earn premier qualifying points in the Basic Economy, but it is not eligible for upgrades.
Economy: United Airlines Economy class is eligible for Elite membership and upgrade.
Economy Plus: If you wish to fly in United Economy Plus, you are eligible for an Elite membership and can upgrade to any premium Class.
Changes Allowed:
Basic Economy: No changes are permitted in United Airlines' introductory Economy class.
Economy: The Economy class permits free update changes in the booked flight ticket within 24 hours of purchase.
Economy Plus: Passengers will also have a free change option in Economy Plus, but the free change is allowed only up to 24 hours after purchase.
Seat Type:
Basic Economy: In basic Economy, travelers will be assigned to Standard Economy Seat.
Economy: United Airlines Economy also offers Standard Economy seats only.
Economy Plus: Economy Plus travelers can select seats with extra legroom.
Is the United Basic Economy worth it?
Basic Economy fares are worth it for those looking for low-fare travel deals. Still, while purchasing, you should remember that upgrading to Economy Plus and other premium classes is restricted. You will also not get extra legroom seats, and change is prohibited.
Can I upgrade my basic Economy fare with a United Airlines Credit Card?
Even if you have purchased a basic Economy fare and are wondering if it is possible to upgrade because you have a United Airlines Credit Card, you can expect one upgrade depending on the card. Also, you can access the Airport Lounge.
Does United Basic Economy and Economy allow carry-on?
Unlike other Airlines, United Basic Economy does not allow carry-on luggage that can easily fit under the seat cabin until passengers are flying to South America or transpacific or transatlantic flights. While Economy fares offer free carry-on, you must pay for checked luggage on all three fares. Read in detail about basic economy baggage allowance.
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