Summary

• Strict carry-on rules: Carry-ons are not included, except for international flights.
• Random seat allocation: Seats are assigned randomly.
• Board last: Basic Economy customers typically board in Group 6.

United Airlines offers three primary seating classes, each divided into two subclasses. United's Basic Economy class represents the airline's most economical ticket booking option. While the cheapest among all classes, the carrier's Basic Economy ticket can end up costing more if passengers are unaware of certain charges. This article discusses essential considerations to be aware of.

1 Strict carry-on rules

Carry-on bags are not included unless you're flying internationally

Dimensions of carry-on items allowed with the basic economy fare:

United's Basic Economy fare is known for its strict rules. When traveling with this ticket type, passengers can travel with one personal item. United's website states that a personal item can be a shoulder bag, backpack, or laptop bag that fits under the seat in front of you. Extra items must be checked at the ticket counters. Bringing them to the gate incurs a $25 gate service fee per item and the applicable checked bag fee.

Meanwhile, typical carry-on bags are not complimentary in Basic Economy unless you fly to international destinations such as Canada, South America, across the pond, or over the Pacific.

Regarding checked baggage, Basic Economy passengers only receive a free checked baggage allowance when flying internationally across the Pacific. Checked baggage fees vary based on itinerary. You can calculate the costs for your flight on the airline's website..

2 Random seat allocation

Seats can only be upgraded at the check-in counter

With a Basic Economy fare, United passengers can expect seats with standard legroom and space. The one disadvantage is that the carrier will always assign a random seat to the passenger automatically before boarding. It is worth noting that United's Basic Economy fare seats are typically located at the back of the aircraft or in the middle of the plane, and the in-seat power is not always available.

According to ch-aviation, United's Basic Economy and Economy seats are 6 inches abreast with a pitch of 30 inches on its typical Boeing 737-800 aircraft fleet. This is less compared to seats in the airline's Economy Plus and Economy Comfort. Meanwhile, its Airbus A320-200s have the exact seat dimensions in Basic Economy and Economy class. Below, find the table showcasing United's narrowbody aircraft seat dimensions.

United's website states that travelers on the same reservation, including families with children under 12, may not be able to sit together unless:

"If you're traveling with a child under 12, we have new tools that make it easier for them to sit next to a family member for free. Otherwise, we can't guarantee your family or group will all sit together, so consider buying a seat assignment in advance."

3 Board last

Basic Economy passengers board in Group 6

Boarding a plane first offers several advantages, including securing overhead cabin space near your assigned seat and the opportunity to disembark earlier, saving time. However, it's not surprising that United Airlines' most economical fare doesn't provide this perk. Travelers with a Basic Economy ticket will typically board in the final boarding group, often in Group 6.

However, there are certain exceptions. This exception applies to:

• Passengers with disabilities or all who need assistance
• MileagePlus Premier members
• Companions on the same reservation
• Primary cardholders of eligible MileagePlus credit cards
• Star Alliance Gold members

4 No online check-in

In most cases, passengers can only check-in at the airport

How to check in for a flight:

• Arrive at the check-in desk or kiosk at the airport's departure terminal.
• Bring your checked luggage to the airport to confirm weight and size.
• Ensure your personal item meets airport requirements if traveling with only one item.

There are certain things to know about the check-in process when booking Basic Economy with United. Online check-in is restricted to passengers who are either checking a bag or flying on a transoceanic route. However, upon online check-in, proceed to a check-in counter or designated kiosk in the airport lobby to drop off your bags.

If not checking a bag or flying over an ocean, checking in must be completed at the airport to confirm the size of personal items and ensure the absence of additional personal items if not eligible.

5 Perks for elite status

Basic Economy still offers perks for elite status holders

United MileagePlus Premier benefits for Basic Economy travelers:

• Priority boarding
• Free checked bag
• Free carry-on bag
• Earn miles

Carrying one of United's co-branded credit cards waives certain restrictions associated with United's Basic Economy fares. This includes priority boarding and free checked bag allowances, according to a report by Nerd Wallet.

If you already possess one of these cards, ensure to include your MileagePlus number in your United Basic Economy reservation to access the priority boarding benefit. Your ticket must be purchased with an eligible credit card to use these advantages. In addition, United MileagePlus Premier members receive similar benefits in Basic Economy. The number of free checked bags varies according to the Premier status level.

What are your thoughts on this? Have you ever flown with United's Basic Economy fare? Let us know about your experiences in the comments section below.

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  United Airlines

  Region:

  North America

  Loyalty Program:

  MileagePlus