The Complete Guide to Basic Economy
Basic economy is a restrictive fare on most major airlines. With the growing number of fare options, it can be hard to figure out which works best for you. I’m going to break down what basic economy is, the pros and the cons, and when you should book basic economy.
As I said before, basic economy is a restrictive fare. You’ll still be in economy, but you’ll miss out or have to pay extra for some of the benefits offered in economy, like seat selection, carry-on included, doesn’t allow for upgrades, among other things. But these vary based on each airline. For example, United will not allow a carry-on, but TAP Air Portugal allows a carry-on and a checked bag. Be sure to read the information provided before buying your ticket to figure out if a carry-on is included or not.
Basic economy became more mainstream when budget airlines offered incredibly low prices.
CONS:
Most basic economy tickets include a carry-on bag, except on United. So if you see a $350 United basic economy ticket and a $380 Delta basic economy ticket, it may be worth it to choose the Delta ticket so you can bring your carry-on. Some airlines do have a weight and size limit on your carry-on, so again you’ll just want to compare the cost of upgrading or adding the bag. On United, if you didn’t pay for your bag ahead of time and you have to gate-check it, you have to pay the checked bag fee plus a $25 handling fee on-site.
There is no advanced seat selection unless you pay extra. I’ve seen it be almost $170 per route to choose your seat if you choose basic economy. If you need a window or aisle seat, it may be best to book regular economy. On transatlantic flights, I like to be on the aisle in the middle section, so I will usually book an economy ticket so I can pick my seat and move around if I’d like to.
You cannot upgrade to regular economy once you have basic economy booked.on Google Flights, they show you very clearly what is included in Basic Economy vs Economy and how much it costs to upgrade.
You are not allowed to cancel or change your basic economy tickets on most airlines. This may change during COVID-19, but in the “normal” world, you’re stuck with your ticket.
PROS:
Basic economy is great if you travel light, have plans set in stone, want to travel as inexpensively as possible, and don’t care where you sit.
***If you are traveling with kids and have to sit together, book your seats together through economy. I see people in travel groups get really upset when a parent asks them to switch seats (that they paid for) in order for families to sit together when they didn’t plan ahead.
The best thing to do to prepare for your basic economy flight is the following:
pack light! I have plenty of packing guides on here. Learn to travel with less stuff and it will be much less burdensome on you when you’re traveling.
Bring your own snacks and empty water bottle to save money or if your ticket doesn’t offer drinks and snacks.
Bring your own entertainment. I’m partial to the Kindle Fire. You can download your movies or shows ahead of time and watch offline or you can read your books in the sky.
Basic Economy has many restrictions, but if you’re an easy-going traveler, this may be the best option for your traveling.
Do you have any tips for surviving basic economy? If so, drop them in the comments below :)