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Is Economy Plus Worth It on United Airlines? A Seasoned Traveler’s Take

The definitive answer? It depends, but often, yes, Economy Plus is absolutely worth it on United Airlines. It boils down to a simple equation: how much do you value legroom, and how long is your flight? For shorter hops, perhaps not. But on anything exceeding a few hours, the extra space can transform a potentially torturous journey into a far more bearable – even enjoyable – experience. Let’s delve into the nuances and help you decide if upgrading to Economy Plus is the right choice for your next United flight.

The Legroom Factor: What’s the Real Difference?

Let’s be honest, the primary allure of Economy Plus is the extra legroom. United’s standard economy typically offers around 31 inches of pitch (the distance between a point on one seat and the same point on the seat in front), while Economy Plus bumps this up to 34-37 inches. While a few inches might not sound like much, trust me, it makes a world of difference, especially on long-haul flights.

Imagine being able to stretch your legs without bumping the seat in front, comfortably work on your laptop, or simply avoid the knee-cramping misery that often accompanies standard economy seating. That’s the promise of Economy Plus. This added space isn’t just about comfort; it’s about reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), improving circulation, and arriving at your destination feeling refreshed rather than completely depleted.

Beyond Legroom: Perks and Considerations

While legroom is the star of the show, there are other benefits to consider:

Priority Boarding (in some cases): Often, Economy Plus passengers enjoy priority boarding privileges. This means you get on the plane earlier, securing overhead bin space and settling in without the stress of fighting for a spot for your carry-on.
Proximity to the Front (generally): Economy Plus seats are typically located near the front of the economy cabin, which translates to faster deplaning after arrival. This can be a real advantage if you have connecting flights or are eager to get to your final destination.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a guaranteed seat with extra legroom can alleviate pre-flight anxiety and contribute to a more relaxed travel experience.

However, it’s not all sunshine and roses. Here are a few factors to weigh:

Cost: Economy Plus comes at a premium. The price varies depending on the flight length, route, and your MileagePlus status. You’ll need to assess if the added cost aligns with your budget and the value you place on comfort.
Availability: Economy Plus seats are subject to availability. They often sell out quickly, especially on popular routes and during peak travel seasons. Book early to avoid disappointment.
Not Always Consistent: The specific amount of extra legroom can vary depending on the aircraft type and configuration. Always check the seat map before booking to ensure you’re getting the desired space.

Determining Your Economy Plus “Worth It” Factor

Ultimately, deciding whether Economy Plus is worth it comes down to personal preference and a few key considerations:

Flight Length: For flights under two hours, the extra legroom might not be essential. However, for flights exceeding three or four hours, it can make a significant difference in your overall comfort.
Budget: Are you willing to pay extra for a more comfortable flight? Compare the cost of Economy Plus to the base fare and consider your budget constraints.
Physical Needs: If you’re tall, have mobility issues, or simply value extra space, Economy Plus is likely a worthwhile investment.
MileagePlus Status: United MileagePlus members often receive discounts or complimentary upgrades to Economy Plus, making it an even more attractive option. The higher your status, the greater the likelihood of scoring a free upgrade.
Seat Selection: Do you value specific seat features like an aisle or window seat? Economy Plus offers a wider range of seat selection options.

Alternative Strategies for More Comfortable Flights

If Economy Plus isn’t in your budget, or if it’s unavailable, don’t despair! There are other strategies to enhance your comfort in standard economy:

Choose Your Seat Wisely: Use seatguru.com or similar websites to identify the best seats in the economy cabin. Look for seats with extra legroom, minimal recline, or proximity to the aisle.
Invest in Travel Accessories: A good travel pillow, eye mask, and noise-canceling headphones can significantly improve your comfort on long flights.
Stay Hydrated and Move Around: Drink plenty of water and get up to stretch your legs periodically to improve circulation and prevent stiffness.
Dress Comfortably: Opt for loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes to avoid feeling restricted during the flight.
Use your United credit card: Many co-branded United credit cards offer priority boarding benefits, allowing you to snag overhead bin space before the crowds descend.

Conclusion: Weighing the Options

Economy Plus on United Airlines is a valuable upgrade for many travelers, particularly those on long-haul flights. The extra legroom, potential for priority boarding, and more desirable seat locations can significantly enhance your travel experience. However, it’s essential to weigh the cost against your budget and personal preferences. Consider your flight length, physical needs, and MileagePlus status to determine if Economy Plus is the right choice for you. And if it’s not, remember that there are other strategies you can employ to make your flight more comfortable, even in standard economy. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about United Airlines Economy Plus

1. How much does Economy Plus cost on United?

The cost of Economy Plus varies significantly depending on factors like flight length, route, demand, and your MileagePlus status. Short domestic flights might cost as little as $20-$50, while long-haul international flights could range from $100 to $300 or more. The best way to determine the exact cost is to check the price during the booking process on United’s website or app.

2. Do United MileagePlus members get free Economy Plus?

Yes, United MileagePlus Premier members (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and 1K) are eligible for complimentary Economy Plus upgrades, subject to availability. The higher your status, the earlier you can select your Economy Plus seats for free. Premier members can also use PlusPoints to upgrade to Economy Plus.

3. Can I upgrade to Economy Plus after booking my flight?

Yes, you can usually upgrade to Economy Plus after booking your flight, either online through the “My Trips” section of United’s website or app, or by contacting United customer service. However, availability is not guaranteed, and the price may be higher than if you had booked Economy Plus initially.

4. Is Economy Plus refundable if I cancel my flight?

Generally, if you cancel your flight, the cost of your Economy Plus upgrade is refundable. However, it’s essential to check the specific terms and conditions of your ticket, as some restrictions may apply. Contact United customer service for clarification.

5. Are Economy Plus seats wider than standard economy seats?

While Economy Plus offers more legroom (pitch), the seat width is typically the same as standard economy seats. The primary benefit is the increased space between your seat and the seat in front of you.

6. How can I maximize my chances of getting a free Economy Plus upgrade?

The best way to increase your chances of a free Economy Plus upgrade is to achieve a higher MileagePlus Premier status. Also, booking flights during off-peak travel times and on less popular routes can improve your odds.

7. Are there any Economy Plus seats that are better than others?

Yes, certain Economy Plus seats are more desirable than others. Exit row seats often offer even more legroom, but may have restrictions on stowing carry-on items at your feet. Aisle seats provide easier access to the lavatory, while window seats offer a place to lean against. Use seat maps to research the best options for your needs.

8. Can I use miles to upgrade to Economy Plus?

While you can’t directly use miles to purchase Economy Plus seats, you can use miles to upgrade to a higher class of service (like Premium Plus or Business Class), which would then include the Economy Plus benefits.

9. What happens if I miss my connecting flight and I have Economy Plus on the next flight?

If you miss your connecting flight, United will typically rebook you on the next available flight with Economy Plus, subject to availability. However, it’s always best to confirm this with a United representative to ensure your upgrade is transferred.

10. Does Economy Plus include free alcoholic beverages?

No, Economy Plus does not automatically include free alcoholic beverages. These are typically only included in higher classes of service, such as Premium Plus or Business Class.

11. Can I bring my own food and drinks into Economy Plus?

Yes, you are generally allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks into Economy Plus. However, outside alcoholic beverages are usually prohibited.

12. Are there power outlets in Economy Plus seats?

Whether or not Economy Plus seats have power outlets depends on the aircraft type. Newer aircraft are more likely to have power outlets (either standard AC or USB ports) at each seat. Check the aircraft details on United’s website or app to confirm the availability of power outlets on your specific flight.