If you’ve recently looked for a flight on a major carrier, you’ve likely been drawn to the rock-bottom fares labeled “basic economy.” Now offered as the lowest-tier option by airlines such as United, American, Delta and even JetBlue — this fare provides an inexpensive way to travel from A to B, but it comes with a few caveats.
I recently flew cross-country using United’s Basic Economy and picked up a handful of useful insights. Below is a Savinly-style summary of everything to know before buying a basic economy ticket, along with practical tips to make the journey more tolerable (read: less unpleasant).
What Is Basic Economy?
Basic economy fares have become much more common over the past several years. What began as an airline response to low-cost carriers has evolved into the go-to option for budget-minded flyers.
Basic economy is essentially what it implies — a seat on the aircraft with minimal extras. The catch is that what airlines classify as “extras” often include fairly standard conveniences.
For instance, most basic economy tickets don’t let you pick your seat (even if you booked with a companion) or bring a full carry-on bag onboard.
Next, we’ll walk through key pointers to help you get the most from a basic economy fare.
How to Travel Basic Economy
Traveling on a basic economy ticket is mostly about setting expectations. If all you need is a place to sit, the trade-offs may be acceptable. If you expect more comforts, you could be disappointed.
After my cross-country flights on United’s basic economy, I learned what these fares typically include — and what they omit. Here’s a closer look.
1. Seating
A major distinction between basic economy and higher fare classes is seat assignment. Usually, you won’t be allowed to select a seat without paying extra. That applies even when booking at the same time as someone you’re traveling with. You’ll often be assigned to the least sought-after rows — think: back of the plane near the lavatories. That also means you’ll board late and disembark last.
If the flight is full, there’s little you can do besides bring good headphones, wear comfy attire and hope for an amicable seatmate. If the aircraft is not at capacity, you may be able to move once everyone is onboard.
I suggest asking a flight attendant about alternate seats. They generally won’t let you sit in premium spots — such as extra-legroom rows or other classes — but a helpful attendant might permit you to shift forward a few rows into a less crowded area, which can improve the trip.
2. Baggage
After seating, baggage rules were the other significant challenge I encountered. The key is to know exactly what your carrier allows and what it forbids. Frequently, the distinction is more about wording than substance.
For example, I managed my United basic economy flights with a 35L backpack. While some flight attendants questioned it, I explained that the item was my “personal item” and would go under the seat. I also made sure everything was packed before approaching the gate so it didn’t look like a larger carry-on.
By the third flight I found myself shoving a small crossbody, a book and a water bottle into the bag just to avoid trouble — the sort of annoyance you accept when saving on fare costs. Overall, having a prepared explanation about your personal item helped me get away with what was effectively a carry-on, despite policies against it for basic economy.
Note: Almost every airline I checked charges extra to check bags on basic economy flights. Fees typically range from $30–$60 per bag depending on when you pay.
3. In-Flight Services
The silver lining is that basic economy passengers generally receive the same in-flight services as other main-cabin travelers. That means similar snack and beverage options and access to entertainment — although what’s offered has been shifting.
Many of my flights provided in-flight entertainment through the United App. That requires a fully charged device with the app installed before boarding if you want to stream shows or movies.
Note: You don’t need to buy onboard Wi‑Fi to use the airline’s entertainment app.
Most seats include a charging outlet under the seat to keep gadgets powered, though I heard reports that some ports weren’t functional. If you plan to watch anything in flight, board with a charged device, use decent headphones and have your airline’s app pre-downloaded. The app is also handy for onboard purchases (like drinks or snacks) because some carriers now only accept payment through their mobile platforms.
4. Points
Another consideration is loyalty points. While United allows accrual on basic economy tickets, some airlines do not, or they award only a reduced amount. If earning miles matters to you, check the airline’s rules before opting for a basic economy fare.
Airlines That Offer Basic Economy Fares
With carriers intent on cutting costs, more airlines now sell basic economy fares. Here’s a brief overview of major airlines offering these low-cost tickets and what to expect.
American Airlines
American Airlines’ basic economy is comparatively lenient: it allows one carry-on (to fit in the overhead bin) plus one personal item (to fit under the seat) free of charge. Seat upgrades can be purchased and seat selection is available for a fee. Expect to board in the final groups.
Alaska Airlines
Marketed as Saver fares, Alaska Airlines’ basic option also permits one carry-on and one personal item. You won’t be able to pick seats in advance, and you’re limited in making changes after booking beyond the usual 24‑hour cancellation window. Points earning may be lower than for standard fares.
Delta
The primary downside with Delta is that basic economy fares don’t earn upgrades in the usual way — in some markets they don’t award miles. You can, however, bring a carry-on and a personal item without extra charge. Expect to board last, discover your seat the day of travel, and be unable to upgrade or alter your itinerary after booking.
JetBlue
JetBlue’s Blue Basic fare allows only one personal item and no carry-on. You’ll earn points at a standard rate of one point per dollar. Seat selection and itinerary changes cost extra. Plan to board in the final group.
United
United’s basic economy includes one personal item to be stowed under the seat. No carry-ons are permitted. You can’t choose your seat and you can’t change your reservation after the typical 24‑hour window. Expect to board in the last group.
Low-cost carriers such as Spirit and Frontier also sell similar no-frills fares. On those airlines you can expect a comparable experience — often with less padding: less comfortable seats, fewer onboard refreshments, and tighter legroom.
Final Thoughts on Traveling Basic Economy
Basic economy travel isn’t a fit for everyone. But for short trips where light packing is feasible, it can result in significant savings. Review the basic economy policy of your chosen airline before you book, so you understand exactly what the ticket does and does not cover.
Contributor Jamie Hart frequently covers personal finance, real estate, and lifestyle topics for Savinly.
