Basic economy explained: what you give up for the lower price

Basic economy puts you in the same seat as regular economy. What changes is everything around the seat: what you can bring, when you board and what happens if your plans change.

What's usually left out

• Free seat selection. You get a seat at check-in, which may split up a group.
• Changes. Many basic fares can't be changed at all, only cancelled.
• Refunds. Usually limited to unused taxes, if anything.
• A full-size carry-on on some airlines, especially in Europe.
• Upgrades and early boarding.

It isn't the same everywhere

Each airline writes its own rules. One carrier's basic fare includes a full carry-on; another charges for it at the gate. Transatlantic basic fares often exclude a checked bag that the next fare up includes. This is why we list the allowances on every option rather than trusting the fare name.

Doing the real comparison

Add up what you'd pay to bring the basic fare up to what you need: a bag each way, seats together, perhaps a change fee if your plans aren't firm. If the total comes close to the standard fare, the standard fare is usually better value.

When basic economy makes sense

• Solo trips with just a backpack.
• Short flights where the seat you get doesn't much matter.
• Dates that definitely won't move.