Being Basic
When it comes to booking a flight, the options can be overwhelming. One of the options available is a basic economy airfare ticket. Basic economy tickets are typically the least expensive option, but they do come with some caveats. Before booking a basic economy ticket, it’s important to understand both the advantages and disadvantages.
One of the main advantages of booking a basic economy ticket is the cost savings. As mentioned, basic economy tickets are usually the least expensive option, so if you’re looking to save money, this is the way to go. They often come with fewer frills, but if you’re just looking for the cheapest way to get from point A to point B, this is an ideal solution.
On the other hand, there are some drawbacks to booking a basic economy ticket. One of the main drawbacks is that basic economy tickets often come with restrictions, such as not being able to choose your seat or bring a carry-on bag. If you’re in need of these amenities, you may have to pay extra to upgrade to a different fare class.
Another disadvantage of a basic economy ticket is that it may not offer flexibility when it comes to changing or cancelling your flight. Airlines that offer basic economy tickets often don't allow passengers to make changes or cancellations at all. While most airlines allow for free changes, basic economy tickets cannot be changed This can be detrimental if you’re unsure of your travel plans and need the flexibility to make changes.
Another potential drawback of a basic economy ticket is that you may not be able to earn frequent flyer miles or other rewards. This can be a downside if you’re a frequent flyer and want to earn points for future flights.
Other disadvantages include:
being last to board (running out of overhead bin)
if a flight is oversold and there are no volunteers, basic economy tickets will be the first to be removed from the flight
you can select your seat, but will have to pay extra for each segment. Otherwise your seat will be assigned at check in.
if you are booking with others in your group on basic you may not be able to be seated next to other. We typically don't recommend basic economy for families as you could be split.
Overall, booking a basic economy airfare ticket can be a great option if you’re looking to save money and don’t need the extras. However, it’s important to understand the restrictions and drawbacks before booking, so you can make an informed decision that’s best for you.
