Overview
- A full‑size carry‑on is banned for most buyers, with exceptions for MileagePlus Premier members, Star Alliance Gold, and primary holders of eligible United co‑branded cards, and gate checks add the standard bag fee plus a $25 handling charge.
- Seats are auto‑assigned at check‑in 24 hours before departure, advance seat selection costs extra, Economy Plus can only be purchased at check‑in, and complimentary upgrades to Economy Plus or first class are not available.
- Basic economy earns redeemable miles and Premier Qualifying Points based on spend but does not earn Premier Qualifying Flights, which limits progress toward elite status.
- Boarding is in the last group (group six) unless the traveler has priority through status or an eligible United credit card.
- Flexibility is limited with credits allowed only after reported—but unpublished—fees (roughly $74.50–$149 domestic and $99.50–$199 international), while sample fares show savings of about $30–$100 versus standard economy on select routes.