Can you upgrade from Basic Economy to Economy Plus United?

Stretching Out in Economy: Upgrading from United Basic Economy to Economy Plus

Flying Basic Economy on United can be a budget-friendly choice, but the bare-bones experience isn’t always the most comfortable. Thankfully, there’s a way to inject a bit more comfort into your Basic Economy flight: upgrading to Economy Plus.

While Basic Economy comes with restrictions like limited carry-on baggage and no seat selection, the option to upgrade to Economy Plus offers a glimmer of hope for a less cramped journey. This upgrade isn’t available at the time of booking, but opens up during the check-in process, either online or at the airport.

The primary benefit of Economy Plus is, of course, extra legroom. Those few extra inches can make a world of difference, particularly on longer flights. This increased space allows for more comfortable stretching and reduces the feeling of being confined. While it doesn’t come with all the perks of a first-class upgrade, the added comfort can significantly improve the overall flying experience.

The price of the upgrade varies depending on the route and demand. You’ll see the exact cost during check-in when selecting your seat. While it adds to the initial cost of your Basic Economy ticket, it often represents a good value for the increased comfort, especially for taller passengers or those prone to restlessness.

It’s important to remember that upgrading to Economy Plus doesn’t change all the restrictions associated with Basic Economy. You’ll still be subject to the same baggage limitations and boarding group assignments. Consider this upgrade as a targeted improvement to your seat and legroom, not a full upgrade to a higher cabin class.

So, if you’re flying Basic Economy on United and looking for a way to make your flight more comfortable, keep an eye out for the Economy Plus upgrade option during check-in. Weigh the cost against the benefit of extra legroom and decide if it’s the right choice to enhance your travel experience. It could be the difference between a cramped flight and one where you can actually relax and enjoy the journey.