What is Basic Economy? What you need to know about basic economy in 2024 -Basic Economy vs Economy

[@nathanjw940]

Having a mild disability really helps being comfortable about it really helps and you can request needs within economy not getting the middle seat. Preboarding so you can put your bag up. I need it because being rushed happens a lot since things move at a faster speed than I can process leading to meltdowns.

[@tinaduncan72]

I flew last week, first time basic economy I did have a carry-on bag and a personal item bag and my CPAP machine. Due to physical limitations, I did do wheelchair assistance which my seat was upgraded to comfort Plus at no additional charge. My experience was not bad at all doing basic economy.

[@nathanjw940]

Similar having a mild disability. I can preboard which I need and just need to ask. Can't get bumped from a flight either because of it.

[@ChineseAg]

Used basic economy for girls trip from Seattle to New Orleans. $129 R/T in 2019. Had to arrive in time for Battle of the Bands. Last minute change during checkin at 24hrs learned times and routing changed. Seattle-Houston-NOLA changed to SEA-LAX-EWR-NOLA, leaving 10 hrs earlier with arriving same time. Flew all over USA on Thanksgiving. So fair warning. I had to do 2nd check in at counter to get seat assignment and they looked at my personal bag with tight scrutiny. Coming home NOLA check in made me put my bag in luggage sizer. It fit in perfectly (thx Ricardo luggage for making small travel bag & mom for shopping garage sale for this NWT find). I would still fly basic economy. Much 💜 for this great vlog S and K!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Oh wow! We have a travel warrior here. We've never had to experience that so we're so happy you shared. This will def be helpful for others to manage their expectations.

[@pingpong998]

Had to watch this one again. Just booked my first flight with Allegaint Air (Concord NC to Fort Lauderdale FL).

[@TheCityandBeyond]

That's great! Haven't flown Allegiant but it's on our list. Enjoy your flight.

[@FoodandFootprints]

Great point about the basic economy ticket + adding luggage often being cheaper than economy

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Yeah and sometimes not but it's always good to check.

[@crystaljohnson4700]

You guys are on it! This information is so useful! Thank you!!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Yay! So happy to hear that. 😁

[@FoodandFootprints]

We’ve definitely had some interesting experiences with not knowing our seats until check-in at the airport

[@tonisams6902]

Thank you for the great video.. It is so nice to see reviews that are actually about the differences.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Aw! Happy it's helpful.

[@PogiboyProductions]

There certainly is some differences between economy and basic economy. Good info guys!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Thanks! Hope it's helpful for when you find those very cheap basic economy tickets and ponder if you should purchase.

[@mariaandbryan]

Since I am claustrophobic, it is really hard for me to get plane tickets without picking the seat. But when I take short flights sometimes I take the chance. But as you say with the luggage, I have found that even when I get Basic economy, I can later add the seat and even the luggage and it is still cheaper than getting the economy fare

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Yeah that's a tough one. Don't want to gamble if you're claustrophobic.

[@mariaandbryan]

@@TheCityandBeyond yes, it's so bad u couldn't take the subway by myself in NY the last two years I was there and avoided rush hour always

[@TheCityandBeyond]

That's rough. Oh wow.

[@KimchiAndBeansVideos]

It sucks so much that they're doing this. We almost made the mistake of buying basic economy. We have to choose our seats and know we won't be charged extra for luggage. Glad you found good tickets. You really have to read every little ticket. That's true about the convenience vs. low cost. Great tips guys.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Its definitely not for everyone. You really have to consider things like what you mentioned, if you have to choose your seat and check in a bag.

[@JeffCD77]

No regular economy ticket anywhere includes a checked bag (unless of course you have one of their credit cards, etc., or other perks). You can always just check a bag and pay the same fee as economy. Plus I've found a basic economy ticket it's still usually cheaper in most cases even when paying to pick your seats. United seats can be as low as $10. Also, we've always been able to pay for our seats in advance. It's a little more work but I find basic economy is cheaper in most situations.

[@1010Huey]

Hi, Selena and Kamau. I love your videos! I have not flown in years, since before 9/11, and your videos have helped me immensely. Thanks!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Oh wow. Thank you so much. It's very touching to hear that our videos have actually helped you with flying. ❤️

[@mariaandbryan]

Cool that you do the recap about who would not be happy with basic economy

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Thanks. We are related to many of them haha

[@mariaandbryan]

@@TheCityandBeyond hear you loud and clear

[@iankerbyyyd]

I really like your contents! Such a wonder for people who are really into cheap flights as well, some youtubers shows WOW economy plus wow business class wow premium cabins wow wow wow tryinh to showcase the wonder of being rich but your contents really hits the spot for people who nourish what is which necessary, needs and wants convenience and comfort etc. I really like the idea of educating people as well who are also trying to make there way on airline flights that would take them to pay less these contents are really in need as not all can really go onto hieghts for paying more. I am an employee of a customer service with a travel account and you have stated that airline company on your videos ALOT and i really like the idea of maximizing the other things offered for that airline to bring out the best for your ticket fare and as well as your trip. *oops i somehow made a hint of what airline haha* kidding aside KUDOS TO YOU BOTH! MORE VIDEOS TO COME HOPE I'LL BE SPEAKING TO ANY OF YOU IF YOU CALL IN OUR CUSTOMER SERVICE HAHA. God speed! Keep on inspiring future travelers!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Lol 🤔 hmmm we may have an idea. Thank you for the kind words. We are trying our best! Our next airline video should be next week. It's WestJet. All we can say, what a mess haha

[@jamesgjurovich7893]

you guys are good keep up the good work!! just found out about Scotts cheap flights and this is how I found out about you guys

[@TheCityandBeyond]

That's awesome! Thanks for watching

[@MONATOLOGY]

Very good information. Enjoy blogging , traveling and stay safe.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

We're glad this was helpful! Let us know if you have any additional questions.

[@GraceonTour]

Hi fellow travelers! Happy to have found another travel channel. Keep on exploring 😊💕

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Thank you! You too!

[@vons-white1458]

@The City And Beyond You all helped me so much with my decision regarding basic enonomy or nah. I appreciate you!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Aww thank you. We appreciate you too! United has made some updates it seems so we have to do another video soon. Definitely before the holiday season.

[@bearsandbutters]

Hey Selena and Kamau! We are not huge fans of flying, so we will live through you guys LOLOL!! We have been on Spirit air once before, and will NEVER fly them again. We went from Philly >> Los Angeles. Flight was delayed 5 hours. It was freezing cold for the ENTIRE flight, and we mean FREEZING.. The plane was old and loud, and we paid for the upgrade to the front seats with more leg room. They could give us a free flight anywhere in the WORLD.. We would not take it. Worst flight experience EVER!! It's interesting to hear the differences between basic economy, and regular economy. We would not be happy with not sitting together, and not knowing where we are sitting til the last minute. That would give us even more travel anxiety LOLOL!! They want to charge for everything.. the next will be a bathroom trip charge or toilet paper square charge.. .05 cents a square LOLOLOLOL!! That's great that you guys don't mind all the inconveniences to get cheaper tickets. We would rather drive to any of these places unless it's Hawaii, then we have no choice but to fly!! LOL Great video and loved seeing your cat at the end.. too adorable!! Much love and safe travels!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

HAHA a bathroom or toilet paper charge! That was a really good one. Budget airlines are ROUGH. Reasons we'd probably go with basic economy over budget airline any day. Especially with one you don't mind flying. Sorry you had such a sucky experience. *knock on wood* We've didn't have a delayed flight with Spirit when we flew them. We're thinking about trying Allegiant in a couple of weeks to give a review but we're scared haha. Maybe one way. Haha.

[@colorizedenhanced-silentmo9508]

Howdy, The City and Beyond. this is actually insightful video. thank. :)

[@TheCityandBeyond]

You're very welcome! Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

[@saraweber3036]

I got a flight tomorrow from twenty-nine to Fort Worth Texas to Illinois and I'm confused because I was able to choose my seat also was told I can bring a carry-on luggage

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Let us know how it went.

[@pingpong998]

Another informative travel video...

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Mission accomplished😎

[@mariaandbryan]

There is basic economy even in international airlines. Very popular here in Europe

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Yeah they are. We found out so many airlines have some sort of saver fare.

[@jons_vlog3]

I decided to op for The explorer card and go regular economy good info.

[@TiaandAndy]

Great information! Basic economy can definitely save you some money if you don't need all the extras!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Exactly. And you can even add back in the extras and still save money compared to an economy class ticket.

[@allyf8608]

Any suggestions for plus size flyers using United Airlines Economy? I have a flight coming up and have no idea what to expect. Ive heard their economy seats are quite cramped but wanted to know y’all’s opinions on it since you fly with them often! Thanks!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

We've heard people say that as well but honestly use seat guru once you find out about your aircraft. Cause it all depends on that. We've been on United flights where it's been super tiny and other times like yesterday where it was just right and didn't feel cramped. If you have a basic economy ticket, also think about purchasing your seat instead of it being randomly selected for you. It will still be cheaper than buying the economy seat. Hope this helps!

[@Tribunal1023]

Great stuff. I’ve decided basic economy is NOT for me lol

[@TheCityandBeyond]

And that is perfectly fine! Glad we could help😊

[@yvettedaly7035]

Well, I traveled on Spirit Airlines once, that will be it. That's for kids as yourself🤣 I need Comfort, however I like reading/ seeing your information given. Keep it up.👍🏽

[@TheCityandBeyond]

We will!

[@safanabafana6519]

*Wish me luck i book basic economy flight for the first time from Chicago To Stockholm Sweden 🇸🇪 for only $662. Usually i used to book a flights like this $850*

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Sending positive energy your way! Great deal

[@davidjones5547]

I am 6'4". I would never fly basic economy or economy because I would simply die being crammed in, especially on an international flight.

[@Emm486]

I am looking into booking an international flight from TX to El Salvador. I only see an Economy ticket not basic economy. Would that be considered a standard economy type of ticket? And Would this allow me to bring personal item and carry on? The fine print is confusing. I don’t mind having to pay for a checked bag if I absolutely have to but if this allows me to bring a carry on then I would prefer to have it with me.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

If it says Economy, you'll be able to bring a carry-on and personal bag at no charge.

[@karelytristan2766]

Thank you so much for the info. I'm so nervous since it's my first time traveling from SAT to LAX we got a good deal at Delta. However, can the airlines resell the tickets? Or sell more tickets? since I don't have my seat can they sell it or my flight is reserved and they respect it?.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Good question. I don't think so, especially without refunding you your money or rebooking for a diff flight. You have a guaranteed seat like everyone else as far as we know.

[@jaweeayacocho5993]

They won't, since upon one successful booking the 1 available slot is gonna be deducted. One of the common misconception is passengers, often think that seats availability equals to slots available which is not since for example for this instance for basic economy. They are not allowed to assign advance seat assignment unless they will pay extra for the seat, also not all passengers who are already booked are picking out seats in advance.

[@bettyboopers8749]

I don’t fly often and I’m stressing just trying to coordinate the flight, hotel, and rental car. I tried one of those service companies and tried their bundle deal, but they booked our hotel a day before we were to arrive. When I tried to contact them about correcting it they didn’t understand me and it frustrated me even more. They kept switching me to different people and I had to explain my situation over and over. 😢

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Aw man. We can't stand those third party companies that sell bundles. We have friends who always use them and are fine but it's definitely a gamble. Hope it works out!

[@86Kera]

You guys are so informative 👏🏿

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Glad you think so!

[@jeansurim9962]

So If you buy a basic economy ticket as a couple, you both don’t get a seat right next to each other? Isn’t right?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

It's not guaranteed, but all airlines try their best to keep seat tickets bought together, seated together.

[@NLMusique]

Great video but I have one simple question for you. I'm also a United Explorer card holder. With basic economy, will I be able to bring a Carry on? I'm one of the lucky ones that always get economy plus seats every time from buying a basic economy ticket. I know I will board ahead of time but not sure if I can bring on a carry on.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Simple answer... Yes

[@bettyalvarez2151]

Do you know of a way to change your flight date if the ticket is basic economy

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Hmm I think changes are still free for some airlines but you may have to pay for the change. Often the option is in your online itinerary.

[@LisaFrancis-e1q]

Curious with United do you need to utilize the seatbelt extender? Flying with United and hearing they have a shorter seatbelt.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Neither of us have. I'd say they have some of the longer seatbelts from our experience.

[@LisaFrancis-e1q]

That’s good to hear! Thank you!! Flying into EWR too!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

@@LisaFrancis-e1q have a good flight! If you need an extender though, the attendant can snag you one

[@FoodandFootprints]

So many different names for basic economy. Bare fare is a first 😂

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Lol that's Spirit Airlines I think

[@mariaandbryan]

"I feel like I walk here" 🤣🤣

[@aylinmartinez6070]

Hey y’all. Hope you guys see this but I have an economy ticket with United. Would I still be able to bring a carryon or would I have to have the carryon checked?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Not sure if we're understand the question but you can bring your carry on.

[@01plindsay]

For some reason, I thought this was going to be a video about finance.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Hey Pete, In a sense it is but we get why you might have thought so. Hope you still learned a bit 🙂

[@godiva1955]

Hi you guys. I have a question you guys. Can I bring my takeoff 18” wheels off luggage on United as a personal bag?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

You'd have to compare the sizing to their personal bag size requirements

[@breezy1906]

Great video

[@annabelwu6562]

for united , basic econemy if i have a explorer card , for domestic flight will get 1st check bag for free but i can not have a carry on , question 1 is can i have a personal item for free? 2 question is will i get a charge $25 for the gate fee when i got free 1st checked bag fee?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

With the united explorer card you still get a free checked bag and your carry on. Personal item included in every ticket. www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/united-no-frills-carry-on-restriction-credit-card

[@rml853]

So if I bought a basic economy flight with delta am I allowed to take a carry on? What size would my personal item bag have to be?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

No completely sure but they usually go through the allowance when you buy your ticket and on the website. Take a look at their site

[@SelenaAcosta-rn2js]

I don't care much on where I sit but will I still be with my group and not separated?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

More airlines are doing better keeping groups together. As long as you purchase the tickets together.

[@lewthegamer8474]

I know I’ve commented on your other video or two. But where do I check I check in my suitcase for a regional jet using basic economy? I’m also using a travel agent and some how I was given a seat assignment. How is that done? I’m using United

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Not sure but i would suggest going to united.com and entering your confirmation code.

[@lewthegamer8474]

@@TheCityandBeyond I totally goofed! I’m flying Economy Class. Not basic economy. 😆. I haven’t flow since I was a kid about 20+ years ago. Or on my own like this. So this is all new to me!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Have a good trip!

[@ShannonL7]

Will you guys cover plus size passenger flying? Do you guys not mind not getting to sit next to each other?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

We've actually thought about it but aren't sure we have enough to offer about plus size flying. Thanks for the suggested. And most times we end up sitting next to each other. If airline tickets are purchased together, they will do their best to sit the seats together.

[@montserratanelldelossantos5631]

If I buy a basic economy flight, can I take carry on bag? Or what would be the cost to take it?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

No carry on and you can not pay for a carry on. That's only budget airlines that allow you to pay for a carry on. The alternative is checking it in

[@christinakrchnakova6335]

Hello, i would like to ask. Im having connection fligjt from Vienna in Washington to Guatemala. Im allowed to bring a carry on bag with Austrian airlines. But it seems like from US im allowed only one personal item with me . And im afraid i can be charger for my backpack as my carr on bag. Or are these rules for international fligjts same? Thank you

[@TheCityandBeyond]

You should contact the airline or look on their website but most times international flights are exempt from basic economy restrictions.

[@lmd499]

You guys are great🤣

[@ramom2240]

So, with basic economy you are allowed to bring a small bag plus you can also check a regular luggage bag?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Yes you can bring a personal bag on the plane for free and pay to check a bag with basic economy

[@ramom2240]

@@TheCityandBeyond thank you

[@kytaylor3010]

I’m so confused because mine says United economy S it’s not basic right so i can have a carry on and a personal ?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Not sure actually. Try googling it. Maybe someone else shared about it

[@PopesPalace]

I'm flying united and was confused on the bag policy. I have a suitcase and a small travel bag. Will I be charged for the suitcase or can I bring it on for free?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Depends on if you have basic economy vs one of the other ticket types.

[@berthaz2583]

You two look so great together 😊

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Aw thank you

[@superdeleon]

What about business?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Like business class?

[@LTTNY]

Hi, guys first time traveler and flying internationally, my ticket says Economy (L) does that mean I get to take a free carryon and personal item?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Welcome! Not sure what the (L) stands for but airlines are usually very explicit when it's an basic economy ticket as you book it. When you manage your booking, it should also share what bag allowances you have. I'd assume your ticket does allow both.

[@LTTNY]

@@TheCityandBeyond I bought package deal through Costco and I wasnt able to choose between economy or plus etc., when Costco sent me the info by email there it es economy(L) and I’m like what first that mean 😁 So I downloaded the United app and I was able to choose my seats but everything is still so confusing to me, it’s my first time flying, it’s overwhelming.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Totally understandable. We'd say, if you were able to choose your seat... Definitely not basic economy. The airline chooses it for you with basic economy. Now you can take a sigh of relief 😉

[@LTTNY]

@@TheCityandBeyond thanks your very helpful, keep up the good work.

[@jessicablueheart9772]

What if your carryon bag that is a bookbag, is your luggage?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Should be fine. Check the dimensions and compare it to the carry on allowance.

[@edgarza0511]

Will me and my fiancé be able to sit together if we didn't pay for our seats.? I heard that getting you to pay for your seats is just a way for them to make more money.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

What's funny is we just ran into a similar situation yesterday with an upcoming flight. So airlines usually do their best to seat tickets bought together on one booking to be seated together. What we decided was to only buying our seats to our destination because we really wanted those specific seats. But most times we just let them assign us and we're together.

[@edgarza0511]

@@TheCityandBeyond one more question... lol if me and fiancé both have ONLY carry on bags (we're able to fit everything in there) will we be charged baggage fees with United Airlines.?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

If it's basic economy, you should be a bag that can fit under the seat. You should see notices throughout your itinerary on the website saying what size bag you can bring

[@edgarza0511]

@@TheCityandBeyond I guess I meant if I bought a carry on, and small backpack that can fit under the seat. I know big suitcases will be charged, but will the small backpack and carry on be charged a fee.?

[@cjgray9352]

Do you have a first class video?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Noooo, we mainly fly economy so we can stretch the money for travel. Although we may start having some first class international flights if the price is just right.

[@cjgray9352]

@@TheCityandBeyond my wife tells me to do economy but being crammed into a space for a long period of time with a lot of people would be very hard for me and my anxiety 😟 agreed the money 💰 difference is extreme

[@TheCityandBeyond]

@@cjgray9352 Depending on the airline and aircraft, economy seating does not have to mean you're cramped. Many newer planes have plenty of room. Long haul flights with international airlines are also often wayyy better economy seating.

[@cjgray9352]

@@TheCityandBeyond that’s great to know I will investigate airline economy config for international the prices for first domestic is generally twice the price but business international is about 3 to 4 times the price with first being 6 to 7 times higher making it several thousands more which makes me clutch my wallet more

[@harneetkaur1196]

Hey guys, would you prefer American Airlines or United for an International flight from India to the USA!?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

United probably. We hear the Polaris is really good for international flights but haven't done it ourselves.

[@Candyb8]

Do they measure your personal bag?

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Hey Candy, The most they'd ask is for you to place it in one of the sizer bins outside the gate. It's rare but if they were to ask, that's what they'd ask you to do. There's no like measuring tape involved haha

[@Candyb8]

@@TheCityandBeyond ok thanks! I love your videos!

[@TheCityandBeyond]

THANK YOU SOOO MUCH

[@809nel]

Its horrible and robbery, I bought 4 tickets for my kids and wife on delta costing $1400. Why should i have to pay 200$ more just pick a seats? Now I've been full of stress till 24hrs before the flight when I can pick the seats. Deltas family policy is BS, I called them and they still don't guarantee we will all sit together. Its literally a race 24hrs before the flight to check in and pick what's left over. I wont be flying with my family till this practice ends I guess.....

[@TheCityandBeyond]

I'm not sure about Delta but most of the time airlines do try keeping tickets bought together, seated together. Some people say to check in as soon as it's available so you are assigned sooner as well. Fingers are crossed for you.

[@maxsaviation9512]

Then just pay 200 more? If you’re going out of the country and won’t pay that you should consider choosing a different less expensive place

[@809nel]

you are replying to a 2 year old comment jesus christ get a life@@maxsaviation9512

[@LisaFrancis-e1q]

Curious with United do you need to utilize the seatbelt extender? Flying with United and hearing they have a shorter seatbelt.