✈ How to Beat Basic Economy Restrictions, Exciting New Airline Routes & More Daily News From TPG ✈

September 2, 2024

Is basic economy worth it?

by Sean Cudahy, Senior Aviation Reporter

I have a confession to make — one that might be an eyebrow-raiser among frequent flyers and points and miles enthusiasts: I sometimes fly basic economy.

Yes, it’s restrictive. On most airlines, the stripped-down fares don’t include free seat selection, offer last-group boarding and bar any ticket changes.

On some airlines, your loyalty earnings might be capped — if you earn any miles at all.

But there are ways around some of these restrictions.

For instance, as an American Airlines Citi / AAdvantage credit card holder and elite status member, I’m able to skirt a lot of the hurdles of basic economy.

The priority boarding I get as an elite member supersedes the basic economy restrictions. I’m still allowed to select a seat, and am still eligible for complimentary upgrades.

Sure, my mileage and Loyalty Points earnings come at a reduced rate, but in my eyes, playing the points and miles game is ultimately about saving money in the long run.

So, on a short-haul flight, I might not want to pay $70 extra just to earn a few hundred extra miles I can make up with my everyday spending.

To be clear, your calculation might be different if you want a flexible ticket, or may need to cancel it later.

You also may balk at Delta Air Lines’ basic economy altogether, which bars Sky Club access and all SkyMiles earnings — or United Airlines’ basic economy, which bars full-size carry-on bags (most of the large U.S. network carriers now allow them!).

But on several carriers, having an airline credit card, elite status or a travel credit card that offers reimbursements for certain ancillary fees can make basic economy more approachable.

Should you tread carefully with basic economy? Yes. Should you avoid it at all costs? Not necessarily.

Here are a few more resources from the TPG team:

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Photo Credit: SDI PRODUCTIONS/GETTY IMAGES .

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