United Economy VS. Basic Economy

May 25, 2024

When choosing a fare type with United Airlines, passengers often contemplate between Economy and Basic Economy. While both options provide you with a seat on the same aircraft, there are some substantial differences in the services and allowances included.

United’s Basic Economy is designed to be the most affordable option. However, affordability comes with some restrictions. Notably, United restricts full-sized carry-ons for its Basic Economy tickets on most routes. Passengers are given a much smaller United Airlines baggage allowance, usually limited to a personal item that can fit under the seat in front of them. In contrast, a standard Economy ticket includes both a personal item and a full-sized carry-on.

Despite the restrictions on luggage, the Basic Economy fare on United does include food and beverages, similar to the standard Economy. However, the fare type doesn’t offer the same flexibility when it comes to changes and upgrades. Here are the detailed difference between basic economy and economy:

United Ticket Types

Contents

United Ticket Types
Table of Contents
Is united economy the same as basic economy?
United Economy vs. Basic Economy: Overview
United economy plus vs economy
Summary:
FAQs
Related Posts:
- Check Airlines Baggage Fees and Policy.

1. United Polaris

2. United First

3. United Business

4. United Premium Plus

5. United Economy Plus

6. United Economy

7. United Basic Economy

Each class, namely United Economy, United Basic Economy, and others, varies across several standards including fares, seat assignment, baggage, and boarding. While United Economy and United Basic Economy may appear similar in terms of the latter two standards, today we will focus on the key distinctions between these two classes.

The Basic Economy provides a lower-priced fare but may have restrictions on seat assignment, boarding, carry-on baggage, upgrades, changes, refunds, elite earnings, and elite benefits. This article will highlight the significant differences between a United Economy vs. Basic Economy you need to know before you book a flight with United.

Is united economy the same as basic economy?

No, United Economy is a basic economy class fare offered by United Airlines. The airline offers the lowest-priced tickets in the industry, but customers can’t select seats or change their flight once it’s booked.

The United Economy fare is for customers who want to travel on a budget and don’t mind having to deal with an assigned seat and no changes or upgrades.

Basic economy fares are available on all flights, except those that are operated by United Express partners. They can be purchased online or at the airport.

United Economy vs. Basic Economy: Overview

Basic Economy

Fairs are cheaper by $20- $30 each way
Only one personal item allowed 17 × 10 × 9″
Allowed but up to about 25 liters maximum hand luggage (1 bag) with no carry-on permitted
Last boarding group
Choosing your preferred seating costs extra

No refunds or flight changes
No Economy Plus is available
Unable to check in online or via the app unless you pay for checked luggage

basic Economy seats view — Photo Credit: instagram.com

United Economy:

More expensive than Basic Economy
No restrictions on the number of personal items allowed. However, luggage must fit under the seat
About 70 liters maximum hand luggage (2 bags)
Includes a carry-on 22 × 14 × 9″
Boarding groups 3-5
Choosing your preferred seat is included
Refunds are available for qualifying tickets
Ability to upgrade to Economy Plus seats with extra legroom
Able to check in online or via the app

United Airlines basic economy vs Economy: Difference

Imagine visiting a restaurant, the place looks inviting, and there is a nice ambiance. You go in, order something from the menu which looks reasonably priced, and wait in anticipation.

When your food is served, the waiter informs you that the silverware wasn’t included in the initial price of your meal, and it will cost you an extra $5 if you want a knife and fork and another $5 table-side processing fee for ordering your knife and fork at the last minute. To top it off, you and your family won’t be sitting at the same table. They want extra money for that too!

You would be enraged if this happened to you, right?

This is how some customers flying United feel when they choose Basic Economy. In a nutshell, you have to pay extra for services otherwise considered standard. That is, you have to pay for anything apart from them flying you and your personal effects to your intended destination.

Similar to the example above, your main purpose to go to the restaurant was to eat food. Any additional (that is, using their utensils) is considered outside the basic need to eat food.

One of the highly noticeable differences between the two is the baggage allowance. As a Basic Economy ticket holder, you won’t be able to bring more carry-on in the overhead bin. On the other side, the Economy class has an adequate baggage allowance, and you can comfortably travel with all your luggage and personal items.

Expensive or Inexpensive

Basic Economy is the cheapest fare class offered by United. In contrast, the United Economy is the most affordable class.

There is only a slight price difference between the two economic fares, with Basic Economy tickets being cheaper by $20 – $30 each way. This price difference represents the limit allowed in your carry-on, being last to board the plane, and not being able to choose any seats.

Personal items

For Basic Economy tickets that are not trans-Atlantic, the limit is one personal item with no carry-on bag. Passengers on a Basic Economy ticket who bring a full-sized carry-on bag to the gate will be required to check their bag.

When you purchase the economy ticket, personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Everyday items include backpacks, laptop bags, and purses. These bags can be no larger than 9 inches X 10 inches X 17 inches (22 cm X 25 cm X 43 cm).

Liquid Range

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has some restrictions for packing liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on bag. These items must be in containers that measure 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. They must also be inside a single quart-size or liter-size clear, sealable bag.

When traveling with Basic Economy flyers, you are allowed about 25 liters maximum of hand luggage. For United Economy, you are allowed about 70 liters maximum of hand luggage (2 bags).

Carry On

Does united economy allow carry on? United economy flights are operated by regional partners that use smaller aircraft. The overhead compartments have less space; roller bags and larger carry-on bags won’t fit. This is why United Airlines are strict when it comes to luggage.

If you are traveling on Basic Economy flyers, you can only bring one personal item onboard.

However, there are some exceptions.

If you want to bring a full-size carry-on, you will need to check your bag. You will need to pay the applicable checked bag fee and a $25 gate handling charge. For ease of convenience, pay via credit card.

While carry-on luggage is included in the ticket that you pay for, it may not fit the overhead cabin or under the seat storage. Therefore, United Economy passengers may need to gate-check their carry-on before boarding. These gate-checked bags will not be sent to the luggage claim area when exiting the airport. Instead, they will be brought to you just outside the aircraft.

Baggage

Basic Economy is a great option for those who don’t need a lot of baggage or want to save money on their flight. With this ticket type, you can only bring one personal item that fits under the seat in front of you (like a purse or laptop bag). You also won’t get any seat selection options or upgrades before check-in. You can purchase additional baggage once you get to the airport, but it will cost extra.

United Economy is similar to Basic Economy but allows passengers more flexibility when it comes to baggage allowance and seat selection options. You can bring two personal items that fit under the seat in front of you as well as carry-on luggage (which must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you). You still won’t get any upgrades before check-in, but if there’s an open seat on board your flight then they may assign it to you at no extra charge!

Boarding group

Passengers with Basic Economic tickets will be in the last boarding group unless they’re a MileagePlus Premier member or companion traveling on the same reservation, a primary card member of a qualifying MileagePlus credit card, or a Star Alliance Gold member.

When you purchase a United Economy ticket, you and your travel companions on the same reservation will maintain your boarding priority and be allowed to bring a full-sized carry-on bag on board if space permits. This is one of the benefits of economy fares ticket class.

Choosing a seat

Avoiding the dreaded middle seat is practically impossible when you fly Basic Economy.

When purchasing a Basic Economy ticket for your travel, you won’t receive a complimentary seat assignment for seat selection. But, you may be able to purchase advance seat assignments during booking and up until check-in opens.

However, you can receive seat assignments at an extra cost to help you with seat selection failure, to which your seat will be automatically assigned to you before boarding, and you won’t be able to change your seat once it’s been assigned.

The United Basic Economy ticket seat selection allows you to choose your preferred seat at no extra cost. You have the chance to book a window seat to enjoy the airline services even more. Economy plus tickets may be purchased at check-in.

Choosing a seat for an unaccompanied child :

Despite the various limitations imposed on seat selection for basic economy tickets, certain exceptions are made, particularly in the case of assigning seats for unaccompanied minors. However, to avail of this exception, one must contact the United Customer Contact Center subsequent to completing the booking process and pay the requisite unaccompanied minor fee.

Travelers with disabilities :

Basic economy ticket holders who are passengers with disabilities, as well as unaccompanied minors, are entitled to seat assignment. This provision extends beyond the standard restrictions that are typically associated with basic economy tickets. Thus, in addition to unaccompanied minors, passengers with disabilities who have purchased basic economy tickets may also exercise their right to seat assignment

United Economy vs. Basic Economy: Refund Policy

If you purchase Basic Economy tickets, then your itinerary changes due to a cancelation; you are not entitled to a refund or flight changes. With an economy ticket, the airline will refund or rebook you according to the usual procedures in the event of any changes made by United, such as rebooking due to a cancellation or schedule change. You are also eligible for ticket changes to any ticket type without incurring extra economy fare.

Online portal for checking

When you purchase a basic ticket from united airlines, you are unable to check in online or via the app. So, you cannot access the airline remotely unless you visit the airport.

With a United Basic Economy ticket, you can check in online or via the app and make any reservations or cancellations necessary.

Online check-in is always better, if nothing else, from a convenience point of view. If you check in online, you can typically still pick some pretty decent seats. If you check in at the airport counter, you are stuck with whatever seats your fellow passengers didn’t want.

United economy plus vs economy

Legroom and space

Economy Plus offers more legroom compared to regular Economy. Passengers seated in Economy Plus enjoy additional space for increased comfort during their flight.

Seat location

In Economy Plus, seats are typically located towards the front of the Economy cabin. This provides passengers with the advantage of easier boarding and disembarking from the aircraft.

Seat features

Image of The points Guy's Instagram post — Photo Credit: instagram.com

Economy Plus may offer enhanced seat amenities, such as increased recline and additional seat width. These features provide a more comfortable seating experience compared to regular Economy seating.

Price

Economy Plus typically comes with a higher fare compared to regular Economy. The additional amenities and benefits offered in Economy Plus result in a premium cost for passengers.

It is important for travelers to carefully consider their preferences and travel needs when deciding between United Economy Plus and Economy. Factors such as budget, legroom, and seat comfort may play a role in the decision-making process.

Please note that for the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is always advisable to refer to the official United Airlines website or contact their customer service directly.

Summary:

In summary, a Basic Economy ticket may be the right choice for budget-conscious travelers who pack light. However, those who prefer more flexibility and a larger baggage allowance may find the regular Economy fare more fitting. It’s always essential to consider your individual travel needs when choosing between United Airlines Economy vs Basic Economy.

FAQs

Can I bring a carry-on with United Basic Economy?

For Basic Economy tickets for trans-Atlantic flights, the limit is one personal item, no carry-on bag. Passengers on a Basic Economy ticket who bring a full-sized carry-on bag to the gate will be required to check their bag and pay the applicable checked bag fee plus a $25 gate handling charge.

What does Basic Economy mean for United Airlines?

Basic Economy was created for customers who are more price sensitive. United airlines basic economy fare provide most of the same in-flight services and amenities available with the standard economy, such as food and beverages, United Wi-Fi, and in-flight entertainment.

Can I pick a seat on the United Basic Economy?

For all the ticket classes, except Basic Economy, you will be able to pick your seat or change your seat assignment. If you have a Basic Economy ticket, you’re able to purchase a seat assignment during booking and up until check-in opens.

Does United charge for carry-on bags?

United Airlines (UA) allows 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item ( purse, briefcase, laptop bag) per passenger fee-free. Carry-on should not exceed the following size and weight restrictions: 45 linear inches (22 × 14 × 9) or 115 centimeters 56 × 36 × 23) including handles and wheels.

How much is a united carry-on bag?

If you arrive for your flight with a standard carry-on bag and a Basic Economy ticket, the airline will make you check your suitcase, resulting in a $50 added expense ( $25 checked for bag cost, plus a $25 handling charge. International Basic Economy checked baggage fees are $60 for the first bag and $100 for the second.

Is a backpack considered a carry-on?

Technically, any piece of luggage that you “carry on” to an airplane is a carry-on bag. Most airlines allow one piece of carry-on luggage or “hand baggage” that can fit in the overhead bin, plus a “personal item” (a smaller purse, computer bag, diaper bag, small backpack, etc.)

Can I bring a backpack and a carry-on United Airlines?

Most travelers can bring on board one carry-on bag plus one personal item free of charge. About your personal item, the maximum dimensions of the item such as shoulder bag, backpack, laptop bag, and any other small item are 9 inches × 10 inches × 17 inches ( 22 cm × 25 cm × 43 cm)

How much does it cost to choose united economy seats?

There is no charge when it comes to seat selection with the united Basic Economy where available, but you can opt for “preferred seating” (closer to the front of the economy section) for $9 each way. If you are not ready to book at the time of searching, you can pay to reverse the ticket charge using ‘farelock.’

Is there a difference between the United Basic Economy and the Basic Economy?

While Basic Economy provides the same level of in-flight service as standard economy, the lower-priced option has some essential restrictions to seating, carry-on baggage, MileagePlus member benefits, including premier member benefits, and other aspects of your travel.

How do I know if I have a united economy?

Once you click on a fare, the site displays a pop-up of the flight details with a small highlighted notation that the plane is the Basic Economy. You can get all these details concerning the ticket class on the airline’s website.

How Do I Know If I Have Basic Economy United?

You can check your status on the United website. If you have basic economy, your ticket will say “Basic Economy” in the top left corner of the confirmation page.

What Is United Economy Class?

United Economy is a class of service offered by United Airlines. It provides travelers with amenities and services similar to those provided in First Class and Business Class, but at a lower price point.

What Does United Economy Include?

United Economy includes all the amenities of a first class seat, but with a more affordable price.

Is My United Flight Basic Economy?

To know if your United flight is basic economy, you can look up the flight status on United’s website. If it says “Basic Economy” next to the flight number, then it’s a basic economy flight.

Can I upgrade from basic economy to economy on United?

In the event that you have procured a basic economy ticket but subsequently, reconsider your choice, upgrading to an economy ticket can be effortlessly accomplished.

Is united economy plus worth it?

Economy Plus offers more legroom and additional perks like priority boarding and extra overhead bin space, but it comes at a higher cost than standard Economy. If you value comfort and convenience and are willing to pay a premium for it, then Economy Plus may be worth it for you.