my economy travel

My Economic Travel

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10918 Main St

El Monte, CA 91731

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About the business.

Business owner information

Joseph Rivera J.

My Economic Travel, la agencia de viajes Los Angeles, cuenta con expertos en circuitos turísticos alrededor del mundo, quienes le ahorrarán tiempo y dinero ofreciéndole los boletos de avion baratos, tours, cruceros y paquetes vacacionales más económicos que en cualquier otro lugar. Nuestra agencia de viajes Los Angeles pone a su disposición la experiencia de sus agentes de viajes para atender las necesidades específicas de cada cliente adecuándonos al perfil de cada viajero en todos los aspectos, desde el económico hasta el de tiempo. Gracias a nuestro moderno sistema computerizado podemos ofrecerle un servicio de primera calidad de reservaciones, tanto nacionales como internacionales, que permite a nuestra agencia de viajes Los Angeles el acceso inmediato a las principales líneas aéreas, hoteles y arrendadoras de autos del mundo entero, proporcionando así un servicio cien por ciento personalizado. …

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Overall rating

We have used My Economic Travel as our travel agent 3 times now and we have had a positive experience with them. Its true that they have been usually busy the times we've ve been there, but they still had the time to help us with our inquiries. In our experience, they have been nothing but honest and professional with us. This year, Joseph put a nice South America tour for us and we really had a great time!! Thank you My Economic Travel for making our vacation enjoyable with no issues. We now have all these great memories to share with our loved ones. (Carlos & Joselyn)

If i could id give no stars No vengan aqui. No lo hagan. La falta de profesionalismo es absurdo. Mi mama y tia compraron un paquete de vacaciones para tulum pero que creen no reservaron nada mas que el vuelo. Ellas pagaron para que las recojieran de sus casas y nunca yegaron. No las recojieron en el aeropuerto y pa acarbarla de chin.... No isieron la reservacion pal hotel. Llegaron y les dijeron que no avía reservación. Acontrario les dijeron que la misma agencia habia cancelado la reservacion. La peor cosa esque los ofendidos fueron ellos al nosotros reclamar la falla de su parte. Pa no aserla mas larga mi mama y tia tuvieron que ser trasladas a otro hotel. Pos el hotel pa cual pagaron no las pudo resivir por falta de habitaciones. No pierdan su tiempo alli pero mas que nada no pierdan su dinero

I dont recommend this business because they dont handle business like they should. My husbands flight was canceled two days in a row. I called the airline for a refund and they said since I booked through a travel agency that they need to reach out to them and get the process going. I called spoke to Jose and twice he told be that he would handle it and call me back. Still haven't heard from him. I understand you are busy with other clients,but we are clients as well. If you are going to give a time frame of when you are going to call back then try to stick to it. If its taking longer than usual then a courtesy call would be great.

TERRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE, UNPROFESSIONAL, & RUDE!! Just an awful experience. I called on a Saturday asking for a price quote for flights in July. I do my research before I book a flight but the agents response was and I quote "Dont waste my time if you're not going to buy." Not the response I expected, especially because I've booked flights there before. I guess now we need to book before asking any questions.

Boy where do I start with this group of unprofessional, unknowledgeable and incompetent group of travel agents??? We had some family issues after booking our flight and were unable to make it to our destination. I Called to speak with Jose (he is the one that sold us the tickets) but he is ALWAYS busy because he has a side gig officiating weddings in the next room. They told us to come in (we live 30 miles away) and they would take care of our issue. Rushed down there to find him doing a wedding so we waited 30 minutes to speak with him. He told us that we needed to speak with the Airline. (I told him originally that we called the airline and because he is our travel agent we had to go through him). after back and forth and back and forth and months that went by our time was running out before we would lose out on the tickets so I asked for someone else in the office because Jose was useless, and this guy seemed to be a bit more helpful. He told us to send him copies of our medical papers that stated we couldn't go on our trip so I did and he said he would send them to the airline so we could hopefully get our refund. ANYWAY....weeks went by and I heard nothing (I kept calling but they kept saying it takes time) our expiration date was within one week. I called the airline because MY ECONOMIC TRAVEL agents are incompetent, to find that they never did send the medical papers to the airline, so we had to rush to the airlines to sort out the mess ourselves. Luckily we were able to postpone our trip but it cost us $700 in fees! I WOULD NEVER RECOMMEND THIS TRAVEL AGENCY TO ANYONE!!! if I lived closer I would picket in front of their business everyday so people wouldn't lose any their money, their time, or their minds!!! It was a very stressful year of back and forth with them and they shouldn't be allowed to deal with people if they have no clue as to what they are doing (WHICH THEY DON"T!) Ok I am done. Heed my warning people. If I were you...I would just book through the airlines so much less stress!

Business Owner

Mar 17, 2017

Thank you for review Julie but don't lie, you decided to cancel your flight because the earthquake in Ecuador and you send your mother or mother in law to try to get the refund with the excuse that she was sick, we don't really understand how people can lie in that way to get their money back, after all to be clear, all refunds are made directly with the Airline, we don't really cooperate with customers lying to Airlines to get their money back in a fraudulent way. Don't lie and say the truth, dont try to make us look bad, thanks.

First time here and won't be the last. I booked my flight to New York round trip for the best deal ever. I was going crazy trying to book myself and it wasn't working out. They took the time to find a great deal for me and the best hour flights with the seats I preferred. Another thing I'm very big on is customer service, and they were amazing. I'm most definitely going back for further traveling options or flights I might want to take in the near future. Thank you so much !

Thank you Lucia for your review, God bless you.

I would definitey avoid this place! Don't get me wrong we didn't loose much money but the quality of service my family received was terrible. We called on a Saturday asking for a price quote for a flight to El Salvador we were told it would be $A, we agreed to reserve it right then, so the lady said great come on in on Sunday and I'll finish helping you then. We show up Sunday and said lady isn't there, ok no big deal my family is helped by a man. Now a thing about my mom is she always asks about luggage, she likes taking as much as possible because she takes gifts for her family and friends, and so we specifically asked how much luggage is she allowed to take. The guy offered Avianca, my mother doesn't like that airline because they charge a lot of extra fees. The man insisted it was the cheapest flight, we let him know we prefer Delta and had already discussed it with the lady from the day before. He agrees so this is when my mom confirms that she is allowed to take 1 carry on and is allowed 2 checked bags for free. The thing now is though the price went up $12, apparently he couldn't find the reservation the lady made the day before, but ok no big deal. We're told to return the next day for the paperwork because their printer is on the fritz, annoying but ok, it's expressed my sister will be the one picking up the paperwork because my mother will be busy. When my sister arrives on Monday is when the biggest issue arose. The paperwork stated she was only allowed 1 checked bag, my sister brought this to the mans attention, that's when another man joined the conversation. He was saying that the last man that helped us was new and that he must've gotten confused or didn't know what he was doing. My sister replies that she understands but my mother was promised 2 bags so now what are we going to do, due to the fact my mother was out shopping for 2 checked bags. This is what upset us the most his response was "pero señorita para que se estresa!" And other nonsense which translates to but lady why are you so stressed out?! Of course when written it doesn't sound like a big deal, but the tone of voice was degrading and aggravating, how on earth is it ok to speak to paying customers in such a tone that makes it feel they were doing us a favor. No, we paid in full but since it was no longer their issue and they had received their commission they washed their hands of us. I called the airline and the fee was only an additional $35 my mom went and enjoyed her trip. Now because of a grand total of $47 and a ton of belittling attitude we will never return or recommend this agency.

Stay away from this place if you wanna be given poor services from an uneducated owner. The owner is very pushy with payments even when specifically told, I was going to come in to make the payment on my available time; which I specifically told him. Guess what? he harasses his client with calls. Even though I specifically told him I was going to come in, and also told him I had things to do. Guess what he says? He told me, he is more busy... Wow so busy, that he doesn't respect his clients time. I am an angry customer, but my words are true. If you expect to get good services, not here. But definitely an outrage and blood boiling battle with the guy in the suit.

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The Complete Guide to Basic Economy on International Flights from the US

Scott Keyes

July 18, 2023

12 min read

With a growing number of fare options available on international flights, it can be hard to determine what’s the best deal—and which option, ultimately, is best for you. If you’re a frugal traveler who doesn’t need perks, basic economy might be all you need on your international flight. You’ll sacrifice some basic amenities, though, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before you pull the trigger.

Here, we break down everything you need to know about basic economy on international flights from the US.

What is basic economy?

Basic economy , also called light or saver economy, is a restrictive class of fares that offers maximum savings to customers in exchange for a no-frills travel experience. You’ll sit in the same economy section of the plane as travelers who’ve purchased “main” economy seats, but you’ll miss out on a few benefits (or pay extra for them).

For example, most regular economy fares include early seat selection and allow for flight changes (for a fee), but basic economy fares typically don’t follow those rules. Basic economy often doesn’t allow for upgrades or frequent flyer mile accrual, either.

While it’s always important to read the fine print before you book a ticket, it’s even more so with basic economy as what’s included—and not—can vary widely by airline and route.  

Basic economy first began as a pushback by major airlines against the eye-catching ticket prices of ultra-low-cost carriers like Spirit Airlines, Allegiant, Norwegian, Frontier and the now-defunct WOW Air. In 2012, Delta became the first major US carrier to introduce basic economy to travelers looking to save money on its North American flights, then it expanded that fare class in 2018 to include transatlantic flights, as well. American and United both followed suit, adding their own version of basic economy to international flights in 2018, too.

Basic economy, in some form or another, can now be found on almost every major US carrier and shows no signs of going away.

Crucial to note is that basic economy is not the same on every airline—in other words, they don’t all refer to this fare class by the same name—so check the airline’s website to figure out which is which. TAP Air Portugal, for example, has a basic economy fare that includes carry-on and checked bag but also offers a discount basic economy fare that only includes a lighter, smaller carry-on.

Which international flights have basic economy as an option?

Basic economy is usually found on longer-haul flights: it’s generally offered on flights to Europe and the Caribbean and Central America. On flights to some destinations, however, like South America, Asia, and Africa, only main (regular economy), premium or comfort , and business and/or first class are offered. Basic economy is also available on a majority of flights within the US.

Are carry-ons allowed with basic economy?

Most basic economy tickets include a carry-on bag ; however, some routes on United only include a personal item and no full-size carry-on unless you’re a MileagePlus Premier member or companion on the same reservation. These routes tend to be within North America (including flights to Hawaii or Alaska from other states), the Caribbean and Central America. Transatlantic basic economy fares are the same as regular economy on United and include a carry-on bag.

What should I know before I book basic economy?

Advance seat assignments are not included in basic economy, though many (but not all) airlines allow basic economy passengers to choose a seat at check-in. Ticket changes or refunds are not allowed, and basic economy travelers will not be allowed paid or complimentary upgrades to premium seats.

Pay attention to the details of what's included, especially the size and weight of carry-on bags. Some only include a small personal item or have lower weight limits on your carry-on than main economy. You’ll want to compare the cost of adding the bag to the cost of upgrading to main economy before booking. Sometimes the difference is minimal, or it might even be cheaper to upgrade than to pay for your bags a la carte.

I booked basic economy, but I would love to pre-select my seats...

This part can be tricky. In general, the answer is that you can't. Some carriers allow basic economy passengers to pre-select seats for an additional fee while others, such as Alaska’s new “saver” fare, have a limited number of seats at the back of the plane you are able to reserve ahead of time on most routes. For most airlines, you won’t be able to select your seats until check-in, and often, they are assigned to you.

I booked basic economy but still have a checked bag, what do I do?

You can still check a bag with a basic economy ticket; however, it will cost you, and the total depends on your destination and airline. The checked-bag cost associated with basic economy is typically the same as the cost to check a bag in main economy: around $60 USD to Europe for a first bag and $100 for a second, and $30 for a first bag and $40 for a second for most of the Caribbean and Central America.

Once you have booked your flight, you sometimes can use your airline confirmation code to pre-pay for a bag on the airline’s website for a small savings. If the airline does not let you pre-pay online, you will be able to pay for your bags during online check-in or at the airport.

Pro tip: If you have a credit card with an airline, you are often entitled to one free checked bag. On some airlines, you’ll have to use the airline credit card to buy the tickets to get the perk, while on others the perk is tied to your frequent flyer number and you can pay for the ticket however you like and still get the free checked bag.

What is included in basic economy?

Most airlines have similar offerings when it comes to basic economy, but there are some differences so here’s a rundown of the major carries so you know exactly what to expect. We still recommend checking the airline’s fare class restrictions before booking or traveling.

• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or “Saver Fare”) on Aer Lingus includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on that must be 10 kilograms (22 pounds) or less.
• Seats: Basic economy does not include a seat assignment.
• Food: Snacks, beverages and an on-board meal are included in the flight.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on Aer Lingus is $45-$60 each way.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy on Air Canada is called "Economy Basic" and includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on with no maximum weight.
• Seats: Economy Basic does not include early seat assignment.
• Food: When you travel on a direct international flight that includes a stop in a Canadian city, you will be offered a complimentary snack and a complimentary meal item on the domestic portion of your flight. On flights to Europe, Canada, the Caribbean, and Latin America, an onboard meal, snacks and drinks are available for purchase
• Checked bags: On flights to Europe, a checked bag costs $70 each way.  On flights to Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America, a checked bag costs $30 each way.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy on Air France is called “Light Fare” and includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on that must be 12 kilograms (26.5 pounds) or less.
• Seats: Light Fare allows you to select your seat at check-in.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on Air France is $60 each way.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy on Air Italy is called "Economy Light" and includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on that must be 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds) or less.
• Seats: Economy Light does not include a seat assignment.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on Air Italy is $50 each way.

Alaska Airlines

• Carry-on bags: Basic economy on Alaska Airlines is called “Saver” and includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on with no maximum weight.
• Seats: Saver does include a seat assignment, though your seat will always be in the back of the plane with this fare class.
• Food: Meals are available for purchase depending on the trip length.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on all Alaska Airlines flights is $30 each way.

American Airlines

• Carry-on bags: Basic economy on American Airlines includes a personal item and a full-size carry on with no maximum weight.
• Seats: Basic economy does not include early seat assignment.
• Food: On flights to Europe, an on-board meal and drinks are included. On flights to Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America, there is no meal, but drinks are served.
• Checked bags: On flights to Europe, a checked bag is $60 each way. On flights to Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America, a checked bag costs $30 each way.

British Airways

• Carry-on bags: Basic economy on British Airways includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on that must be 23 kilograms (50.7 pounds) or less.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on British Airways is $55 each way.

Delta Air Lines

• Carry-on bags: Basic economy on Delta includes a personal item and a full-size carry on with no maximum weight.
• Food: On flights to Europe and North Africa, an on-board meal and drinks are included. On flights to Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, Colombia, and Central America, there is no meal, but drinks are served.
• Checked bags: On flights to Europe and North Africa, a checked bag is $60 each way. On flights to Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America, a checked bag costs $30 each way.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or "Economy Light") on Finnair includes a personal item and a carry-on that combined must be 8 kilograms (17.5 pounds) or less.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on Finnair is $55 each way.

Hawaiian Airlines

• Carry-on bags: Basic economy on Hawaiian Airlines is called "Main Cabin Basic" and includes a personal item and a full-size carry on with no maximum weight.
• Seats: Main Cabin Basic does not include early seat assignment.
• Food: Snacks, beverages and an on-board meal are included in the flight.
• Checked bags: On flights to and from Hawaii, a checked bag costs $30 each way.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or “Economy Light”) on Icelandair includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on that must be 10 kilograms (22 pounds) or less.
• Seats: Basic economy does include the ability to pre-select seats.
• Food: Beverages are included in the flight, and meals are available for purchase.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on Icelandair is $69 each way.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or “Basic Fare”) on Iberia includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on with no weight restrictions.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on Iberia is $55 each way.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or “Light Fare”) on KLM includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on that together must be 12 kilograms (26 pounds) or less.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on KLM is $60 each way.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or “Economy Light”) on Lufthansa includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on bag that must be 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds) or less.
• Seats: Basic economy does not include a seat assignment, though a preferred seat can be booked up to 48 hours before departure.
• Food: Snacks and beverages are included in the flight.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on Lufthansa is $60 each way.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or “SAS Go Light”) on SAS includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on bag that must be 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds) or less.
• Seats: Basic economy does include the ability to choose a seat for $10-$14 each way when you book, depending on the leg.
• Food: Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are included in the flight.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on SAS is $40-$60 each way. You’ll save money if you pay for your bags more than 22 hours before departure.
• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or “Economy Light”) on Swiss includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on bag that must be 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds) or less.
• Seats: Basic economy does not include a seat assignment, though a preferred seat can be booked up to 48 hours before departure for a fee of $12 to $40, depending on the leg.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on Swiss is $16-$60 each way; you’ll save money if you pay for your bag online before arriving at the airport.

TAP Air Portugal

• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or “Discount”) on TAP includes a personal item and a carry-on bag that must be 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds) or less.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on TAP is $92 each way.

United Airlines

• Carry-on bags: Basic economy on United Airlines includes a personal item and a full-size carry on with no maximum weight on flights to Europe; on flights to Canada, the Caribbean, and Latin America, basic economy includes only a personal item.
• Seats: Basic economy does not include early seat assignment, though you can pay $5 to $10 within 48 hours of departure to select your seat.
• Food: On flights to Europe, on-board meals and drinks are included.  On flights to Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America, there is no meal, but drinks are served.
• Checked bags: On flights to Europe, a checked bag is $60 each way.  On flights to Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America, a checked bag costs $30 each way.

Virgin Atlantic

• Carry-on bags: Basic economy (or “Economy Light”) on Virgin Atlantic includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on bag.
• Seats: Basic economy allows you to select your standard seat at check-in.
• Food: Snacks, an on-board meal and beverages are included in the flight.
• Checked bags: A checked bag on Virgin Atlantic is $60 each way.

What about full or regular economy flights—does Going still send those?

Yes, Going still searches and sends out full economy flights. For deals where basic economy is the lowest price, regular economy is always still available for a little bit more—and we’re always explicit about what fees you’ll pay for seats and luggage if you do opt to go with the basic economy fare. If basic economy is not right for you, you can simply choose main economy when selecting your flight on Google Flights or your preferred flight search engine or OTA.

Additionally, most flights to Asia, the South Pacific, South America, Africa and occasionally Eastern Europe remain regular economy.

Can I upgrade from basic economy to main economy. If so, how?

In most cases, yes, but you need to do it at the time of booking; most airlines won't let you upgrade from basic economy after the flight is ticketed. For many routes, Google Flights offers an easy way to do so. After selecting your flights, you may see this “Basic Economy” drop-down box, which will then show you how much it costs extra for round-trip in regular economy.

After clicking the drop-down bar, you can select the economy fare and the Google Flights checkout page will update accordingly.

Oftentimes, the airline’s website will also have a pop-up or ad prompting you to upgrade to regular economy. It's always a good idea to check how much the upgrade is if you know that you will be traveling with checked bags. In some cases, an upgrade to main cabin can be equal to or less than the cost of a single checked bag.

I bought a basic economy ticket, but need to cancel or change my plans…

Unfortunately, most basic economy fares are not eligible for refunds in the event of cancellation, though a federally-mandated rule does allow you to cancel all tickets within 24 hours of booking, no matter the airline, as long as you booked directly with the airline and at least a week out from travel. Some airlines like Avianca allow changes, but for significant fees. The cancellation or change policy for your ticket can typically be found under the fare rules and varies per airline.

I booked basic economy, and now I'm dreading my flight. What can I do to prepare?

• Pay to pick your seat in advance or check in early. Airlines such as American will allow you to pay between $10 and $40 to choose your own seat 48 hours before your flight.
• Bring your own entertainment, like a book and a laptop or phone loaded with music, TV shows and movies. Be sure and pack your own headphones, as some airlines charge for those, too.
• Stock up on snacks. Most airlines will provide you with water and soft drinks, but you can bring an empty insulated water bottle through security then fill it up on the other side. Packing enough snacks to get you through the flight will keep you from having to spend unnecessary money if the airline does charge for food.
• Pack light. The less you are traveling with, the less burdensome the experience will be in more ways than one. On airlines like United, if you didn’t pay for your carry-on in advance on a non-transatlantic, international flight, they’ll gate-check it and require you pay the checked bag fee plus a $25 handling fee on-site .
• Ask a ticketing or gate agent for help. Airline employees are people, too, and many will go out of their way to help you if it’s within their means. Didn’t get the seat you want? Ask the gate agent if there’s anything he/she can do to change your seat.

>> Read our guide to preparing for and enjoying a flight in basic economy .

Is basic economy right for me.

Yes, you may be happy to save with a basic economy ticket if you:

• travel light
• have travel plans that are set in stone
• have no strong preference on seats
• love saving money and will give up some benefits to do so

No, you may want to upgrade to main economy and avoid basic economy if you:

• travel with checked bags
• may cancel or have to change plans
• are traveling with a family or group and must sit together
• don’t mind higher price tag for more amenities

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Founder & Chief Flight Expert

Published July 18, 2023

Last updated December 21, 2023

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17 items that make traveling in economy feel almost like flying in first-class

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

• Plane flights can often make you feel tired, dehydrated, and cranky, especially in economy class. 
• We asked Insider Reviews editors what they bring to make flights a little nicer. 
• From an inflatable footrest to lots of moisturizer, here's what to stash in your bag.

Flying economy can be notoriously uncomfortable and misery-inducing. There isn't a ton you can do about the size of your seat or the social rules around who gets the armrest, but if you stash a few niceties in your carry-on, it can make the whole experience feel a touch more pleasant. 

We asked Insider editors who cover travel and product reviews what they pack for flights when they're seated in economy to make the trips more bearable. Their suggestions won't overload your bag, and they just might help you forget you're on a plane. At least for a second.

A footrest that fits in your pocket

Maliton Inflatable Footrest

Yep, I'm that person on the plane blowing up a footrest right after takeoff. I love to put my feet up, but I'm way too tall for one of those foot slings I see people using on flights. This inflatable footrest has three levels and can be used as either a footrest or a straight up travel bed for kiddos. It elevates my feet off the floor a bit, and it collapses down to fit easily in a jacket pocket when not in use. —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

A solution for inadequate overhead airflow

Jisulife Handheld Fan

If you're like me and run hot, a portable fan is a must for a comfortable long plane ride. I like this little one because it folds away compactly, can be placed on your seat tray, and has a backup battery bank for charging your devices. I recently ran it for close to 12 hours on a hot day before it died, so it should provide a nice breeze through most flights on one charge. And I'm not alone in my love for this little fan — Insider contributor Carly Caramanna recently sung its praises for travel, too . — Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

Mini yet mighty skincare

Drunk Elephant The Littles Night Out

There's no better time to work on your skincare routine than when you're stuck on a plane with nowhere to go. I love Drunk Elephant's minis, which come in sets and include travel-sized versions of everything you need for a complete skincare routine — from cleanser to night serum. Take some time post the aforementioned sheet mask, and lather on the serums. Your skin will thank you after a long, dehydrating flight. —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

A portable power pack to charge all your devices

EnergyCell Pilot 4GS Portable Charger

Not all economy seats have power outlets, which is why I always carry a portable power pack when I travel. Mine is part of my Away Carry-On , so it stows neatly under the handle of my bag when not in use. If charged properly, it can keep all my electronics going during even the longest of long-haul flights. This is another travel essential that Insider contributor Carly Caramanna and I agree on . —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

A treat for your feet

OluKai Mahana Jersey Slippers

Whether it's a short jaunt or 13-hour flight, the first thing I do is to put my feet into a pair of cozy slippers. I feel comfortable immediately, and I don't have to put shoes back on — or worse, trek in my socks — when I need to go to the lavatory. Any cheap variant with good cushioning should suffice, but these let me walk off the plane and straight to my final destination. —Les Shu, deputy editor

A neck pillow for neck-pillow haters

J-Pillow Chin-Supporting Travel Pillow

I used to be a solidly anti-neck pillow person, but then my doctor turned me on to the J-Pillow, and I'm now quite unabashed about traveling with it. It takes a bit to get used to, but it provides a comfy spot to rest your head and, crucially, neck support that helps prevent the dreaded head bob. —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

A refreshing towelette

Burt's Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes

I can't tell you how wonderful it feels to wipe down my face, neck, armpits, etc. during and after a long-haul flight. They make me feel a little more human and a little more alive, and all the scents are quite refreshing. —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

A quenching (non-embarrassing) face mask

Farmacy Coconut Gel Sheet Mask

I always treat myself to a face mask or two on long flights. Now, I'm not opposed to looking silly to my fellow passengers, but I have my limits. I learned the hard way that charcoal, gold, and animal-themed face masks all elicit stares from your seatmates and passers-by. Farmacy's sheet masks are a top pick in our buying guide, and they're low on the public embarrassment factor. —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

A way to drown out the drone of the plane

Bose 700 Noise-Canceling Headphones

I can't believe I ever willingly relied on airline headphones to watch movies on flights. I once thought noise-canceling headphones wouldn't make that much of a difference, and the airline's headphones would be easier since they were guaranteed to work with their systems. I was so wrong. And my husband knew it. When he gifted me noise-canceling headphones for flying I couldn't believe I hadn't been using them the whole time. Has the plane really been that loud without them this whole time?! —Emily Hochberg, senior travel editor

A luxurious face mist

Evian Facial Spray

Face mists are an absolute essential for me when flying. A cool, refreshing spray makes me feel a hundred times better, even when I'm stuck on the crappiest seat on the crappiest plane. Evian's is scent-free, has a superfine mist, and is small and lightweight enough to fit in any bag. —Sally Kaplan, executive editor

A child-entertainment center

Apple 10.2-inch iPad

Now that I'm a parent of a toddler, I know that there's no real way to make the flight more comfortable for me. I no longer have the luxury of curling up with a comfy blanket and turning on a movie and just watching it. It's all about keeping my child occupied while we get from point A to point B. For my family, that means bringing an iPad onboard downloaded with as much "Bluey," "CoComelon," and "Encanto" content as possible. I will never, ever fly without it. It keeps her busy and that is what keeps me comfortable and at ease on flights these days. That and lots and lots of snacks. —Emily Hochberg, senior travel editor

An absorbing game

Nintendo Switch

I once spent almost an entire flight to Europe playing a Regency romance-themed phone game (then kept playing when I couldn't sleep thanks to jet lag). I love the Nintendo Switch because it's so portable, and I don't have to worry about draining my phone battery. If you love single-player mystery games, " Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot: The First Cases " is hours of sleuthing. Or challenge your traveling companion to some " Mario Kart ." Either way, the time will fly by (no pun intended). —Jenny McGrath, senior reporter 

A soft and stowable blanket

L.L.Bean Wicked Plush Throw

Not every flight provides blankets, and they're not always the most comfortable, anyway. In our guide to the best throw blankets , the L.L.Bean Wicked Plush is our top choice for a fleece option. The 50-by-60-inch size is good for one person and shouldn't take up your entire carry-on bag. It's exceptionally soft and lightweight. It should protect you from the plane's air conditioning without overheating you. It's also machine washable, so you can properly clean it when you're home from your trip. —Jenny McGrath, senior reporter

Breathable briefs

Saxx Droptemp Cooling Cotton Boxer Briefs

For many men, there's nothing worse than the "swamp ass" feeling from sitting in a tight seat for too long. I combat this by wearing underwear from Saxx. This pair is made from a moisture-wicking material, but what I like most is its pouch design that allows for comfort and breathing room down below. —Les Shu, deputy editor

A silky sleep mask

Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask

This sleep mask (an Insider Reviews favorite ) is not only affordable, it's extremely comfortable. It's the only one I've tried that I can wear even in the summer because it's so lightweight. But it still manages to block a good amount of light. If you're trying to get in sync with your destination's time zone or just have an early-morning flight, it should help you get some shut-eye. —Jenny McGrath, senior reporter

A hydration situation

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle

Do not underestimate the importance of bringing your own water bottle to the airport! You can take it through security empty and then fill it up before you board the plane. I love my Hydro Flask because the metal interior feels much cleaner than plastic, it keeps my water frosty cold for hours, and it fits a whopping 32 ounces of water. —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

Chic in cashmere

White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap

This is a splurge for sure, but what's more luxurious than cashmere? I find dressing for airplane travel to be really tough because I'm usually either too hot or too cold, so I prefer to dress in lighter layers and use this indulgent wrap to keep cozy without getting too warm. I've had it for a few years, and it has held up exceptionally well. I'll never be able to go back to a rough airplane blanket again. —Emily Hochberg, senior travel editor

• Main content

Flying in Economy? Here Are 4 Easy Ways to Make Your Flight More Comfortable

The idea of a long-haul flight in economy can feel a lot less turbulent if you follow these tips from frequent flyers..

• Copy Link copied

Rise above the economy-class fray with these simple tips.

Courtesy of Ina Carolino/Unsplash

Welcome to your economy-class seat: 28 inches of legroom and a whopping 16-inch span between your armrests. There’s nothing like the thrill of finding a great airfare deal on an international flight, but after eight-plus hours in your designated 28 x 16-inch space, you might start scheming up ways to make your next long-haul flight more comfortable.

Economy class doesn’t have to mean a down-market experience, though. Some of the extraordinary perks that come along with a first- or business-class ticket—comfortable sleeping conditions, thoughtfully planned meals, and healthful amenities—can be re-created back in economy. Whether you’ve got an exit row seat, the dreaded middle seat, an aisle seat, or the scenic window seat, these tips can help you hack your way to a comfy flight, even all the way back in Seat 39B.

Fasten your seat belt, this bumpy ride is about to get a makeover, thanks to these essential long-haul flying tips you should keep in mind.

1. Travel accessories can help you sleep better in economy

The Trtl pillow is unconventional, but for many people, it’s more comfortable than traditional travel neck pillows.

Courtesy of Trtl Pillow

Airplane foot hammock

• Buy now: Airplane foot hammock , $15

Don’t have the budget for a lie-flat seat in business class? Here’s one of our favorite travel tips: Put your feet up anyway by packing an airplane foot hammock, a padded footrest that elevates your feet a few inches off the ground. Those few inches can truly help alleviate back pain, leg swelling, and stiffness. The straps loop around the metal arms of your seat tray, and you can adjust them up or down to find the most comfortable height for you. After all, getting any shut-eye on your flight can help cut down on jet lag as you pass through time zones. Another perk of using an airplane foot hammock: It helps cut down on the risk of deep vein thrombosis , or DVT—blood clots that can be caused by long periods of sitting. All the more reason to pack this handy air travel gadget into your personal item.

The Trtl travel pillow

• Buy now: Trtl Pillow , $61

Try the travel pillow that 18,000+ Amazon reviewers have been raving over. The Trtl Pillow wraps around your neck like a scarf, but when secured with a Velcro closure, an internal support mechanism keeps your head cradled in an ergonomic position. No more accidentally slumping on your neighbor’s shoulder or jerking awake with a stiff neck, thanks to this neck pillow. We love this clever design that keeps your head upright.

An eye mask and essential oil

• Buy now: Slip Sleep Mask , $50; Vitruvi Organic Lavender Essential Oil , $16

If you have trouble snoozing anywhere but in complete darkness, bring along a silky soft eye mask , like this comfy one from Slip. Then take comfort to the next level and dab a few drops of Vitruvi Organic French Lavender under your nose or on the outside of the mask; the essential oil will relax you and may help fight germs, too, thanks to lavender’s purported antimicrobial properties. All you have to do is add earplugs or a pair of noise-canceling headphones or earbuds and you’re off to snooze town. Plus, wearing an eye mask means you won’t fall into the bleary-eyed trap of endless in-flight entertainment—avoiding the screen and its blue light is especially helpful when it comes to overnight flights.

2. Eat better meals in economy

A stylish water bottle that self-cleans means added peace of mind.

Courtesy of Larq

Travelers in first class may be feasting on a chef-curated meal, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a plastic-wrapped cheese tray, a lukewarm slice of terminal pizza, or a tiny bag of pretzels from the flight attendants’ cart.

Bring your own (delicious) meal

With minimal planning, a quick meal made from healthy ingredients assembled at home can actually make you feel better than eating junk food at altitude. In reusable containers or recyclable foil, pack a few light snacks like nuts, cut vegetables, or fruit for a short flight, or something more substantial like a steamed sweet potato with toppings or a hummus and veggie wrap for a longer flight. But make sure anything that’s liquid or spreadable doesn’t exceed the TSA three-ounce limit.

No time to pack your own food? Stop by the newsstand near your gate and seek out more wholesome snacks like mixed nuts, protein bars, and dark chocolate (70 percent and higher). Also keep an eye out for packaged miso soup or oatmeal, which often come in self-contained bowls, so all you have to do is request hot water from the cabin crew and enjoy.

Bring extra water

• Buy now: Larq Bottle , $99

And above all, drink plenty of water—lots of it. A self-cleaning Larq bottle that purifies water in 60 seconds with a built-in LED light is a high-end practical water bottle option among many that we found; some AFAR editors have also praised water pouches , too.

3. Arrive looking fresh after a flight

Yina sheet masks are gentle even on the most sensitive skin.

Courtesy of Yina

Recirculated air, low oxygen levels, and high altitude can lead to dehydrated skin—address the dryness as it’s happening so you won’t have to rehab your skin postflight.

Bring a bit of facial refreshment

• Buy now: Josie Maran Bear Naked Wipes , $12

Standard makeup wipes aren’t usually the most eco-conscious option. Grab Josie Maran Bear Naked Wipes instead. They’re a gentle and biodegradable way to get rid of excess makeup, oil, and gunk from dry airplane air.

Followed by some hydrating pampering

• Buy now: Yina Divine Bio-Cellulose Masks , $98 for 5 masks; Lapcos Milk Sheet Mask , $15 for 5 masks; Patchology Moodpatch Perk Up Eye Gels , $14 for 5 pairs of masks

Follow up by applying a loud-and-proud sheet mask . Yes, you’re going to get looks for this (and perhaps all these steps, honestly), but some of those glances will be from travelers envious of your ingenuity. The moisturizing sheet masks from Yina, an organic skincare brand founded by doctors of Chinese medicine, are packed with skin-soothing ingredients like ginseng, licorice, and evening primrose. The more budget-friendly Lapcos Milk Sheet Masks calm and plump skin. For low-key in-flight self-care, try a smaller, targeted mask, like eye gel masks from Patchology.

Avoid in-flight sun damage to your skin by applying sunblock.

Courtesy of Supergoop

Lock in the hydration

• Buy now: Glossier Futuredew, $26; Kosasport LipFuel Baseline , $18

While you’re still dewy from the mask, lock in the hydration benefits with a serum like Glossier Futuredew and then apply a good lip balm. We like the hyaluronic acid–boosted Kosas LipFuel.

Don’t forget the sunscreen (yes, really!)

• Buy now: Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50 , $30

For the final step of your high-altitude skincare, apply sunscreen —yes, even at 30,000 feet in the air. You’re closer to the sun and its damaging rays, and airplane windows only filter out some dangerous ultraviolet rays. (They can filter out UVB light, the kind that causes sunburns, but can’t completely block UVA rays , which can still cause skin damage. Close the window shade after asking your seatmates if that’s OK , too.) If you want to be on the safe side, apply a TSA-approved sunscreen, like the spill-proof Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50 for when those shades go back up.

Prepare for landing

To wrap up your in-flight refresh, brush your teeth. Pack a toothbrush and toothpaste in your carry-on for easy access, and make sure it’s easily accessible before you take off to avoid any postsleep stumbling through the overhead compartment. It’s also helpful to have some deodorant among your midflight toiletries. And to make sure you’re mentally prepared to tackle any Uber ordering, Google Maps navigating, or travel partner texting, keep your phone fully charged— portable chargers make a great addition to your carry-on toolkit.

4. Add even more comfort to the economy cabin

Compression socks, like those by Bombas, can possibly help prevent DVT.

Courtesy of Bombas

• Buy now: Bombas Compression Socks , $28

In most business-class amenity kits, you’ll find branded socks to keep your toes toasty. You can do better by opting for socks that are not only warm but also helpful, like Bombas Compression Socks . They keep blood flowing and sore muscles at bay—solving two problems suffered by those stuck in tight spaces at the back of a plane. Plus, they’re a favorite of opinionated AFAR editors and readers . And they look great.

This article was originally published in 2020 and most recently updated on January 4, 2024, by Erika Owen, to include the latest information.

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Travel matters to the economy.

March 19, 2019 By U.S. Travel Association

Travel has a positive impact on so many aspects of our lives: from the memories it helps us create with family and friends, to the trillions in economic output travel delivers and the millions of American jobs it supports. So, for this year’s National Travel and Tourism Week (May 5-11), we are spotlighting a different example each day of why travel matters to America. 

Use Sunday, May 5 to celebrate how travel matters to the economy. Each year, traveler spending in the U.S. generates more than $2 trillion in economic output—boosting local communities across the country, all while helping reduce America’s overall trade deficit . 

Travel matters to the economy in every pocket of America Communities large and small, both urban and rural, rely on travel for economic development, job creation and tax revenues. Without travel spending, the impact its absence would have on local economies and families would be devastating. Travel spending generated $171 billion in total tax revenue in 2018; without this revenue, each U.S. household would pay $1,340 more in taxes every year.

Travel matters to the overall economy and deficit reduction Though many people don’t immediately think of travel as an export, it is America’s second-largest industry export. Every time an international visitor comes to the U.S. and stays in a hotel, rides a train, eats in a restaurant or makes a purchase in a store, the U.S. is “exporting” these goods and services. In 2018, Americans abroad spent $186 billion , while international visitors to the U.S. spent $256 billion—resulting in a travel trade surplus of $69 billion that helps lower our overall trade deficit. Without the surplus provided by travel, the overall U.S. trade deficit would have ballooned 11 percent from $622 billion to $691 billion. 

Ways to celebrate how travel matters to your economy:

• Write an op-ed about how travel contributes to your community. Reference U.S. Travel’s resources for statistics, below, and incorporate your own economic impact and jobs data to localize the content. Pitch it to local media or distribute through a newsletter or on your CEO’s LinkedIn page.
• On May 5, share where your op-ed was published on your social media channels alongside photos of how a strong travel economy has transformed your destination. 

Useful tools:

• Use the Economic Impact Map to show how vital travel is to your district’s economy and workforce.
• Use the Downstream Impact Calculator to simulate how a specific increase or decrease in travel spending can impact the economy and other industries.
• Enter your state into the Travel Economic Impact Calculator to illustrate how increases or decreases affect the statewide economic impact. 

National Travel and Tourism Week is our industry’s time to celebrate the innumerable ways in which travel strengthens communities and enriches lives. Interested in other ways you can celebrate why “Travel Matters” during NTTW? View the full theme calendar . Don’t forget to include #nttw19 or #TravelMatters in your posts for a chance to be featured on our social channels and included in our wrap video. Planning an event? Add it to the official NTTW event map . Visit the NTTW toolkit for more resources to get involved. 

U.S. Travel

For more information about this blog, please contact us at:

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Travel Tips for Long Flights. Here’s What You Need to Know

W ith the end of the year upon us, so is the holiday travel rush. AAA estimates 115 million Americans will head 50 miles or more from home over the festive period, making it the second busiest end-of-year travel season since the company started tracking in 2000, topped only by 2019.

If you’re joining many people heading to the airport for holidays or homecomings, here are some frequently asked questions and tips for long flights. While some answers depend on personal preferences, they also include advice from travel and health experts.

How do I prepare my body for flying?

Jeff Kahn, CEO of the sleep tracker app Rise Science, told Condé Nast Traveler that the best way to ensure you travel and sleep well is to start a trip with “low sleep debt.” A few days ahead of a long-haul trip, you could also begin gradually adjusting your sleep times so that you’re more in-sync with the time zone of your destination.

Before boarding, Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) suggested exercising to get worn out and ready for sleep, especially if the flight is later in the day. Elsewhere, flight attendants have said they book red-eye flights, as those tend to be quieter and emptier, and the timing can help you get over jet lag.

Staying away from screens, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and if possible, choosing a seat location that’s best for you to sleep, are among other top tips.

Should I eat before or on the flight?

Travel journalist Andrea Bennett, writing for flight search site KAYAK, has recommended drinking lots of water, and not alcohol or caffeine, before a long flight, so that you can be as relaxed and hydrated as possible—guidance echoed by other travel pros.

Flight attendant Major has also advised that eating before a long-haul flight can maximize your sleeping time, without getting interrupted by on-board food service. However, you may not have time to do so or don’t want to spend money on airport food beforehand. He suggested bringing your own snacks, especially if you’re traveling with kids or have dietary needs, since you won’t be served food for at least an hour after the flight takes off. 

If you are eating on the flight, you could consider adjusting your meal times to coordinate with your destination to help get over jet lag, which a 2017 scientific study said can work.

What should I wear?

Flight search website Skyscanner has recommended wearing several loose and comfy layers to adjust your temperature while you fly, since it can be chilly on airplanes. Closed-toed shoes are better than flip flops in an emergency, per the travel site, but travelers are encouraged not to wear shoes that are too snug, since feet can swell at high altitudes.

If you plan on removing your shoes, make sure your socks are clean, so as not to bother other passengers with any smells, flight attendant Kris Major told CNN Travel .

Packing sandals or slippers for going to the restroom is also highly recommended , although not everyone will have room for that in their hand luggage.

How can I make my economy seat more comfortable?

Some travel pros suggested bringing a neck pillow, portable footrest or foot hammock, and/or blanket. However, if you don’t have room to carry extra items, you could use repurposed clothing, such as a scarf, that collapses easily and can serve as a pillow.

Multiple experts, such as certified sleep science coach Alex Savy, recommended using noise-canceling headphones or earplugs and an eye mask to help you sleep.

If you’re worried about turbulence, Major has advised sitting near the front of the aircraft because passengers will feel less bumps there than in the back. If your priority is sleep, then consider paying more for a window seat so you can lean up against the window.

Bennett said if you’re tall, you may want to sit in the exit row, but pointed out this is also where passengers with babies put bassinets, so if you’re concerned about crying, that may not be the place for you. The further up you sit, the quieter the engine noise will be, but the back could be less busy, although it’s best to not sit right by the toilets since that could be disruptive.

Should I exercise, and do compression socks really work?

Sitting for long periods of time without movement can raise the risk of forming a deep vein thrombosis or a blood clot that can be dangerous, UCLA doctors advised. Blood clots can best be prevented by taking frequent walks throughout the cabin, doing in-seat exercises such as ankle circles, foot flexes, knee lifts and shoulder and neck rolls, and wearing compression socks.

“Even people with no physical risk factors can benefit from wearing compression socks on lengthy flights,” the doctors said. 

Healthline also recommended not crossing your legs on a plane, wearing loose clothing and staying hydrated to keep up blood flow and prevent clots. 

Major said that even just wiggling your toes while sitting in your seat can help, although it's best that people with blood circulation issues speak to a doctor before long flights.

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• Flight Los Angeles - Hawaii (LAX - USHI) $188+
• Flight San Francisco - Hawaii (SFO - USHI) $220+
• Flight Ontario - Hawaii (ONT - USHI) $249+
• Super 8 by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle $85+
• California Suites Hotel $93+
• Best Western Seven Seas $105+
• Flight San Francisco - San Diego (SFO - SAN) $38+
• Flight San Jose - San Diego (SJC - SAN) $56+
• Flight Sacramento - San Diego (SMF - SAN) $65+
• Shared Living Not A Hotel $34+
• Super 8 by Wyndham Phoenix West $54+
• Hometowne Studios by Red Roof Phoenix - Dunlap Ave. $57+
• Flight Ontario - Phoenix (ONT - PHX) $38+
• Flight Dallas - Phoenix (DFW - PHX) $50+
• Flight Los Angeles - Phoenix (LAX - PHX) $57+

Los Angeles

• Boutique Hostel $34+
• Freehand Los Angeles $41+
• City Center Hotel Los Angeles $104+
• Four Points by Sheraton Los Angeles International Airport $108+
• Rotex Western Inn $108+
• La Quinta Inn & Suites LAX $125+
• USC Hotel $129+
• Flight Phoenix - Los Angeles (PHX - LAX) $57+
• Flight Oakland - Los Angeles (OAK - LAX) $60+
• Flight San Francisco - Los Angeles (SFO - LAX) $65+
• Flight Dallas - Los Angeles (DFW - LAX) $67+
• Flight Denver - Los Angeles (DEN - LAX) $72+
• Flight Chicago - Los Angeles (ORD - LAX) $74+
• Flight Houston - Los Angeles (HOU - LAX) $76+
• Selina Gold Dust $52+
• Motel 6 Miami. Fl $73+
• La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Miami Airport North $84+
• Miami Gardens Inn & Suites $86+
• Days Inn by Wyndham Miami International Airport $91+
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Miami Airport East $98+
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Miami-Kendall $112+
• Radisson Red Miami Airport $113+
• The Palms Inn & Suites Miami, Kendall, Fl $114+
• Holiday Inn Miami West - Airport Area $119+
• Courtyard by Marriott Miami West/FL Turnpike $123+
• Flight Atlanta - Miami (ATL - MIA) $45+
• Flight Philadelphia - Miami (PHL - MIA) $46+
• Flight Chicago - Miami (ORD - MIA) $58+
• Flight Dallas - Miami (DFW - MIA) $59+
• Flight Detroit - Miami (DTW - MIA) $60+
• Flight Raleigh - Miami (RDU - MIA) $62+
• Flight Baltimore - Miami (BWI - MIA) $63+
• Flight Boston - Miami (BOS - MIA) $68+
• Flight Charlotte - Miami (CLT - MIA) $73+
• Flight Houston - Miami (HOU - MIA) $74+
• Hometowne Studios by Red Roof Denver - Glendale/Cherry Creek $64+
• Super 8 by Wyndham Denver Stapleton $75+
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Denver International Airport $97+
• Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Denver Airport $100+
• Comfort Suites Denver International Airport $101+
• Quality Inn & Suites Denver International Airport $101+
• Baymont by Wyndham Denver International Airport $101+
• Flight Chicago - Denver (ORD - DEN) $37+
• Flight Minneapolis - Denver (MSP - DEN) $38+
• Flight Dallas - Denver (DFW - DEN) $47+
• Flight Detroit - Denver (DTW - DEN) $65+
• Flight Los Angeles - Denver (LAX - DEN) $69+
• Flight Ontario - Denver (ONT - DEN) $69+
• Flight Atlanta - Denver (ATL - DEN) $75+
• Hi Boston Hostel $61+
• Found Hotel Boston Common $101+
• Ramada by Wyndham Boston $153+
• Flight Baltimore - Boston (BWI - BOS) $52+
• Flight Miami - Boston (MIA - BOS) $68+
• Flight Philadelphia - Boston (PHL - BOS) $70+
• Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Atlanta Airport $63+
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Atlanta Airport North $100+
• Sonesta Atlanta Airport North $105+
• Flight Orlando - Atlanta (MCO - ATL) $23+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Atlanta (FLL - ATL) $30+
• Flight Detroit - Atlanta (DTW - ATL) $31+
• Generator Madrid $34+
• C&h Aravaca Garden $39+
• Toc Hostel Madrid $44+
• Flight New York - Barcelona (JFK - BCN) $360+
• Rodeway Inn Fairgrounds-Casino $68+
• Econo Lodge Airport at RJ Stadium $69+
• Tampa Inn Near Busch Gardens $70+
• Flight Philadelphia - Florida (PHL - USFL) $37+
• Flight Baltimore - Florida (BWI - USFL) $51+
• Flight Newark - Florida (EWR - USFL) $55+
• Flight Raleigh - Tampa (RDU - TPA) $47+
• Flight Atlanta - Tampa (ATL - TPA) $50+
• Flight Cincinnati - Tampa (CVG - TPA) $56+

New Orleans

• Ramada by Wyndham New Orleans $68+
• Wyndham Garden Hotel Baronne Plaza $93+
• Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans Canal St. French Quarter $102+
• Flight Houston - New Orleans (HOU - MSY) $46+
• Flight Dallas - New Orleans (DFW - MSY) $50+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - New Orleans (FLL - MSY) $53+

Frequently asked questions about KAYAK

How do i find travel deals on kayak.

Simply use one of our travel search engines to scan for prices gathered from hundreds of travel sites. KAYAK’s search results pages have loads of filter options to help you find deals, discover exactly what you’re looking for and make booking seamless. Plus, there’s no extra fee from KAYAK.

How can I use KAYAK to manage my travel bookings?

KAYAK Trips creates a travel itinerary for you that will give you flight status alerts, can be shared with friends and more. Simply forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] or use the KAYAK app and sync your email account to keep all your travel plans organized in one app, even if you didn’t book with KAYAK. You can share your holiday plans with friends and family and also check out your travel stats for past vacations, like how far you’ve traveled, your most popular cities and how many times you’ve traveled around the world. Even if you don’t have signal, don’t worry, as you can access Trips to check out your itineraries whilst on the road. Your data is safe and secure with us and you won’t have to re-enter credit card info when booking future trips. If you want to make changes or cancel bookings, then you should contact the travel provider, which is provided on the booking confirmation.

What makes KAYAK a great travel app?

On the KAYAK app for iOS and Android you’ll find all the great travel offers found on the website and much more. There are special mobile rates and app only deals that allow you to save even more money. Plus, you can get notifications straight to your phone letting you know when prices for your next trip have dropped. But the KAYAK app is much more than just a travel app. Use the Trips function to manage your travel itinerary and get up to date status alerts on flights, check-in changes and to store your boarding pass. Even if you’re in the middle of nowhere on your travels, you can still access your travel notes via Trips, as no internet connection is required.

What are KAYAK Price Alerts?

Instead of manually checking back in on the price of your next flight or stay, let KAYAK do the hard work for you with KAYAK Price Alerts. Once you’ve saved your search, our data will determine how the price will rise or fluctuate over the coming days. You’ll then get a push notification letting you know when’s the perfect time to book.

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How to Add United Economy Benefits to a Basic Economy Ticket

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Basic economy fares on United Airlines are a great way to save money if you don’t mind giving up the perks that you get with main cabin economy fares, like free seat selection, a carry-on bag and no-fee flight changes.

But what if you book a basic economy fare, then later realize you made a mistake and that you should have paid more for a main cabin fare so you could carry on a bag, sit with your family, change your travel dates or enjoy some of the benefits of your United elite status.

Historically, you’ve had the option of paying separate fees for a few of these perks, like seat selection. But now, you have another option: For flights within the U.S. and short-haul flights to Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America, you can pay a single fee, which varies based on the flight details, to switch a basic economy ticket to regular economy.

Here’s how to add United economy benefits to upgrade and switch your basic economy fare.

» Learn more: United Airlines MileagePlus program: The complete guide

First, know what you're getting in basic economy

If you’re thinking of converting your basic economy ticket to regular economy, start by reviewing the terms of your current booking. Here’s what you get with a basic economy fare on United:

One personal item: Passengers flying a United basic economy fare can carry onboard one item, like a purse or laptop case, that’s no bigger than 9 inches by 10 inches by 17 inches and that fits under the seat in front of you.

No full-size carry-on for flights within the U.S.: For domestic flights, you can’t bring a full-size carry-on bag on your basic economy trip unless you’re a MileagePlus Premier member, a companion traveling on the same reservation with a MileagePlus Premier member, the primary cardmember of a qualifying United Airlines credit card or a Star Alliance Gold member. (Transatlantic, transpacific and passengers to El Salvador, Panama and South America with basic economy tickets get one carry-on bag).

No seat selection: You don’t get to choose your seat on most routes; instead, the airline assigns you a seat before boarding. You have the option of paying extra to choose your seat before it’s assigned, or you can purchase Economy Plus seating at check-in. Prices vary.

No group or family seating: You can’t book seats together unless you purchase seat selection in advance.

No flight changes or refunds: Ticket changes aren’t allowed, except in the case of same-day standby, nor are refunds (except within United’s 24-hour flexible booking policy).

Restrictions to MileagePlus and Premier member benefits: Basic economy flights don’t count toward elite members’ Premier qualifying flights.

Last to board: Unless you’re a MileagePlus Premier member or a companion traveling on the same reservation with a Premier member, the primary cardmember of a qualifying MileagePlus credit card or a Star Alliance Gold member, basic economy fares are the last to board.

» Learn more: What you need to know about United Airlines baggage and other fees

Know what you could get by adding economy benefits

If the terms of basic economy no longer work well for your trip, consider whether it would be worthwhile to pay to add United economy benefits on qualifying flights. Here are the bundled benefits you get with the United switch to economy feature.

The option to change or cancel your flight without paying an additional fee.

The ability to bring a full-size carry-on.

Complimentary seat assignment before check-in.

The ability to upgrade further to Economy Plus or a premium cabin seat.

Certain perks  associated with  your Premier status, like complimentary access to Economy Plus and preferred seating, complimentary Premier upgrades, and the option to upgrade using PlusPoints.

Compare the cost of bundling vs. adding perks a la carte

Ask yourself which main cabin economy perks you need and consider whether you should buy them a la carte.

For example, if all that you want is the chance to choose your seat, you may be able to buy that separately. Log in to the United website and go to the “Trip details” page, or log in to the app and select “Reservation details.” Look at the seating chart for your flight to see if you’re offered the option to pick your seat in main cabin for an added fee. Compare that with the offered price for changing your basic economy ticket to main cabin economy with the United switch to economy option.

If the a la carte option can meet your needs more cheaply, that’s the way to go.

For example, adding the option to choose your seat on your basic economy trip may cost $30 or more per direction of travel depending on your flight, as you can see in this recently searched flight from Houston to Atlanta.

If seat selection is all you need, then compare the cost with upgrading to economy price (remember to double the seat selection fee if it’s round trip) and go with whichever is cheaper.

The exact price of these upgrades depends on your route, and the cost will be charged per passenger per direction of travel. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to see the price until after booking a basic economy fare.

How to make the switch

The option to add United economy benefits, if available, will show up after you’ve booked your basic economy flight. You can find it either on the “Trip details” page at united.com or under “Reservation details” in the United mobile app.

You’ll be able to upgrade for one or both directions of travel, but you must add United economy benefits for every person on the reservation.

Why switching to economy could make sense

If you bought a basic economy ticket, switching to economy could make sense for a number of reasons.

More flexibility

If you need to reschedule or cancel your flight, you can purchase the economy upgrade instead of buying a whole new ticket as you’d have to with a basic economy fare.

Better perks for MileagePlus Premier members

If you have Premier status in the United MileagePlus loyalty program, switching to economy means you can enjoy status perks like seat upgrades and the ability to earn premier qualifying points — neither of which are an option when you fly basic economy. But the number of miles and Premier qualifying points you earn will be based on your original basic economy fare.

» Learn more: Guide to United Airlines Premier elite status

Bundled cost

Switching to economy might also save you some cash compared with adding on a la carte upgrades individually.

» Learn more: Valuable benefits of United Airlines credit cards

Final thoughts on adding benefits to a Basic Economy ticket

Upgrading to United Economy will likely be most beneficial for travelers who need to cancel or change a flight because it will likely be much cheaper than purchasing a whole new flight (thus bearing the cost of the original). This new option is also a plus for anyone who books basic economy, then later realizes they need some of the perks of main cabin economy — like the option to sit with family members or earn Premier qualifying flights.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-2x Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays and United® purchases. 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

1x-2x Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, dining, at gas stations, office supply stores and on local transit and commuting. Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75000 Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

1x-3x Earn 3x miles on United® purchases, 2x miles on dining, select streaming services & all other travel, 1x on all other purchases

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

What airline fare classes tell you about your ticket

I expect few things are more complicated than the revenue management department of a major airline.

Forget about the miracle of flight — the people and computers that decide how much you and your fellow passengers will pay for a ticket are modern marvels themselves, with passengers in the same row of a plane often paying vastly different sums for their tickets. There's quite a bit of pressure to deliver a strong bottom line, and one of the ways airlines control revenue is by offering tickets in different fare classes for every flight.

Within what we think of as service classes (economy, premium economy, business and first) there are subdivisions that even many devout frequent flyers can't identify. Fare classes — which are even further divisions of each of those service classes — are complicated and vary from airline to airline, but having at least some familiarity with the lingo can help the next time you're searching for an elusive award ticket , booking an upgradeable fare or simply trying to figure out how many miles you'll earn for an upcoming trip.

Today, I'll address a common question by explaining fare classes so you can understand what the fare basis code tells you about your next flight.

Fare class basics

In the most simple definition, the various fare classes divide every seat on a plane into different categories, each with its own price and set of rules. Fare classes are identified by one-letter fare codes. Some fare classes and codes are standard across all airlines, while some are very different depending on the airline.

Here are a few fare codes that are typically the same across all airlines:

• Y: Full-fare economy-class ticket.
• J: Full-fare business-class ticket.
• F: Full-fare first-class ticket.

Among the large U.S. carriers, Delta and United no longer market any flights with the F fare class, with J being the highest fare class available for purchase. American does use the F fare class, but only for flights offering Flagship First service on its three-cabin aircraft, the Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A321T.

Note: These letters are also commonly used as abbreviations on message boards like FlyerTalk to refer to the "generic" class of service (e.g., "I'm flying in Y from New York to London and want to upgrade to J" means "I'm traveling in economy from New York to London and want to upgrade to business class"). However, this article is focusing on the actual published fare classes from airlines.

Why fight for the armrest when you can rest easy? The difference between cramped flying and classy flying is just a matter of points away with the free TPG App !

Fare classes are used by airline reservation systems and travel agents to sell seats on a plane, and to keep track of which fare classes are still available.

Let's take a look at a quick example. Here's a screenshot from ExpertFlyer (owned by TPG's parent company, Red Ventures) with American Airlines Flight 38 from Miami (MIA) to London Heathrow (LHR) on Sep. 1:

The fare classes with a number next to them are still available; the ones with a zero are not. The number after the letter delineates how many tickets are left in each fare — ExpertFlyer maxes out at seven for AA, so there are at least seven seats left in most economy-class fare buckets but zero seats left in fare classes F, A, R, I, W, P, G, N, Q and O.

Here's how these fare classes fall into the classes of service offered on the Boeing 777-300ER American is using on this route:

• F and A: first class
• C, J, R, D and I: business class
• W and P: premium economy
• Y, H, K, M, L, G, V, S, N, Q, O and E: economy
• B: basic economy

While these fare classes represent all the tickets you can buy directly with cold hard cash (i.e., revenue fares), you'll see that ExpertFlyer gives us a bit more information, including certain upgrade and award fare codes.

For example, A (which is zeroed out on this flight) doubles as the fare code for discounted first-class tickets and for upgrades from business to first class on a three-cabin aircraft. Meanwhile, upgrades from economy to business fall under the C fare class, while the W fare class is for premium economy, along with the P class.

Related: Understanding American Airlines' revenue, award and upgrade fare classes

Keep in mind that the most-discounted fares also have the strictest rules when it comes to refunds, changes, baggage allowances and earning frequent flyer miles or elite credit. Some airlines don't award frequent flyer miles at all if you buy a ticket in the most-discounted economy fare class, especially when trying to credit the flight to loyalty programs of partner airlines. I find this site very helpful when deciphering Delta, American, Alaska, Southwest and United fare codes.

How fare classes affect you

Here's an example of how these various fare classes come into play when you're purchasing a ticket.

Let's say that you're looking to book a flight from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Los Angeles (LAX). Yesterday when you checked the price of a round-trip ticket, you found one for $305, but you needed to confirm dates with a family member before locking in your itinerary. Today when you go to book, the price has jumped to $375. The best explanation for the price increase is that the more-discounted fare class you were looking at yesterday is now sold out.

(Remember that in most situations, you can pull the trigger on a flight and cancel within 24 hours and get a full refund. Check out this guide to airline hold and cancellation policies for more details, and this guide to airline no-change-fee policies if you are outside of the 24-hour window.)

This may also affect you when you go to take the flight, as your fare class will sometimes dictate the number of miles you earn on the flight, from both a redeeming and elite-qualifying standpoint. While American, Delta and United have all switched to a revenue-based model of awarding miles for flights on their own (respective) flights, traveling on most of their partner airlines will use a somewhat complicated formula that takes into account distance flown as well as fare class booked.

As an example, here's the mileage accrual chart for Delta Air Lines when you credit an Aeromexico flight that was not booked through Delta to the carrier's SkyMiles program:

Related: How to earn miles in the Delta Air Lines SkyMiles program

As you can see, the lowest fare class (V) only awards you 25% of the miles flown. If you book a round-trip flight from Mexico City (MEX) to Atlanta (ATL), you'll cover a total distance of 1,331 miles. However, that would only give you 333 miles. Booking into a fare class at the next level (E, N or R) would double those earnings.

This is also critical if you're chasing Delta Air Lines Medallion status . Using the chart above, the lowest economy fare class would get you 1,331 Medallion Qualification Miles, but only 5% Medallion Qualification Dollars. For example, if the base fare of the MEX-ATL flight on Aeromexico was $200, you would only earn 10 MQDs. While those numbers would be doubled if you booked into E, N or R, even booking into full-fare business class nets you a maximum of 40% MQDs. Delta is capping the MQD earnings as an incentive for its most loyal travelers to earn status by flying on Delta's own flights or, at the very least, booking partner flights through Delta.

Finally, it's important to note that many carriers will either prevent you from upgrading tickets booked into certain fare classes or will add cash copays to do so. Therefore it's critical to know what fare class you've booked so you can fully understand how that will affect your flight.

Related: The ultimate guide to upgrading with miles

Standard practices and common fare rules

While fare class is generally designated by a single letter, this gets more complicated very quickly. When you combine a fare class with other rules, you'll wind up with a series of alphanumeric characters, and this is known as a fare basis code. This tells airline reservation specialists and travel agents everything they need to know about your ticket and how the fare is constructed.

The above screenshot shows the fare basis code KAA2PHEN for a United flight from New York (LGA) to Chicago (ORD). I know this is a K-class fare, but I would have to click on "rules" to understand all the restrictions associated with this fare. A good rule of thumb is that the cheaper the fare class, the more restrictions that will be associated with the fare. A K fare with United is a deeply discounted non-basic economy fare that still earns 5 miles per dollar for non-elite members and is upgradeable using cash, miles, PlusPoints or a space-available Complimentary Premier Upgrade for MileagePlus Premier members .

Fare basis codes can also tell an agent whether a fare is refundable, good for one-way or round-trip tickets, departing to or from specific countries, combinable with other fares and good in high or low season, as well as how far in advance the fare can be booked and whether there are any routing restrictions or change penalties.

Example: Fare basis code WH7LNR tells me the following:

• W: I have a W fare class ticket.
• H: It's a high-season ticket.
• 7: I have to book seven days in advance.
• L: It's a long-haul flight.
• NR: The ticket is nonrefundable.

Deciphering fare basis codes takes practice and knowledge specific to the airline, as each one has its own style for writing codes. I wouldn't put too much time into being able to understand anything beyond your fare class and its set rules.

Common fare classes in the points and miles hobby

As noted above, you'll often see bloggers or avid award travelers discussing tickets using generic codes:

• Y: Economy.
• W: Premium economy.
• J: Business.

For example: "There are great Y fares from the U.S. to Europe this winter." Remember that these letters are often used for specific fare classes as well — generally the most expensive (full-fare) ones.

However, the most important implication of fare classes for points and miles enthusiasts involves award tickets and upgrades. Most airlines will set aside specific fare buckets for these awards. Just because there's an open seat in the designated cabin that you want to fly doesn't mean that it's available using miles.

The same holds true for upgrades, whether you're looking to redeem miles, use certificates or take advantage of elite status for complimentary bumps to the front of the plane. I see almost daily comments along the lines of, "But there are three open first-class seats! Why won't (insert carrier here) upgrade me?" If those seats aren't placed into the fare class designated for upgrades, the carrier isn't making them available for upgrades. Note that this may not happen until 60 or even 30 minutes before departure.

The easiest way to illustrate this is with Star Alliance . The 26 member airlines have standardized their award-booking classes, so if you're looking to use miles from one carrier's program on a flight operated by another carrier, you'll need the following inventory:

• X: Economy award seat
• I: Business award seat
• O: First award seat

Since all Star Alliance member airlines are searchable on ExpertFlyer , this can make it relatively simple to search for award inventory and set alerts if your desired class of service isn't available. That said, there are some restrictions here. Swiss, for example, typically only allows elite members of its Miles & More program to redeem miles for first class on its own flights, while Singapore generally only releases long-haul first- and business-class awards to members of its own KrisFlyer program. On the other hand, Swiss' parent airline, Lufthansa, does release limited first-class inventory to its Star Alliance partners.

Related: The hardest first-class products to book with points and miles

I also find knowing these fare classes to be handy in case my online booking screen doesn't tell me what cabin I'm in for partner airline flights. If I book Thai Airways with United miles , sometimes my confirmation only says "TG 678 (I)." Because I know "I" is business, I don't have to call United to confirm that I was booked in the correct cabin.

Special fare classes

Many airlines use specific fare classes for their own products, passengers or other situations. Perhaps my favorite example of this is a benefit only open to United cobranded cardholders or MileagePlus Premier members . If you hold any United card, or Premier Silver status or above, you have access to fare class XN — extra economy award seats only available to Chase cardholders. While United's website is one of the best for searching Star Alliance award space since you don't need to log in to do so, you definitely should if you hold a card like the United Explorer Card .

Related: The best credit cards for United flyers

Whenever you encounter this extra award inventory, it'll be notated directly in the award search results (again, once you are logged in to your United MileagePlus account):

Here are a few other examples of these special fare classes:

• OU: Delta uses this code for complimentary Medallion upgrades.
• PZ: United uses this code for complimentary Premier upgrades.
• U: Alaska uses this code for complimentary MVP upgrades to first class. Travelers confirmed into Alaska first class via U class are not eligible for access to the Alaska Lounge .
• CB: Indicates an extra seat for cabin baggage.
• P : Etihad uses this code for The Residence on A380s .
• IN: Infant fare , usually 10% of an adult fare
• CH: Child's fare, varies from 0%–50% savings depending on the airline
• CL: Clergy fare (Who knew?)
• DP: Diplomat
• PG: Pilgrim
• YCA: Contracted military/U.S. government fares. They are treated mostly as full Y tickets, but unfortunately are no longer upgradeable on American Airlines.

Bottom line

Knowing your fare class is important for several reasons.

First, it can tell you whether you'll earn 100% of your frequent flyer miles from a purchased ticket. This is even more important when crediting your flight to a partner airline. Once you know your fare class, make sure to utilize wheretocredit.com when deciding which frequent flyer program you'll credit your flight toward.

Your fare class also tells you whether your ticket is upgradeable and where you may stand in the upgrade priority line . In case things go wrong or you need to make a change, knowing your fare class can tell you if your ticket is refundable and if any change fees are required, and it can help you plan your strategy for making changes before talking to the airlines. Knowledge is power, and the more you understand about how the airline industry works, the better positioned you'll be to get the maximum value out of your points and miles .

If you're new to The Points Guy , check out our points and miles guide for beginners .

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• April 12, 2024

Economy Travel Reviews | EconomyTravel.com

• EconomyTravel.com has competitive domestic flight prices, and “ 3 out of 4 international fares cheaper than the competition “
• Customer service staff with an average of 8+ years travel experience
• In business in Atlanta, Georgia since 1988
• Wholesale contract rates with 24 of the “world’s leading airlines”

Our Editor’s Review:

We put Economy Travel to the test and compared their flight prices with those found on our current favorite international flight search engine: Vayama.com . Vayama is also a flight consolidator & they sell airfare from 100’s of different airlines and sources. We typically find the lowest international fares on Vayama’s site. When comparing Vayama to Economy Travel, it is important to remember that Vayama’s search engine does not automatically add the taxes & fees (we added them to the prices above). On Vayama, you must click on the lowest rate for the taxes to be calculated and added to the fare, which is a bit time consuming. All fares listed on Economy Travel’s search automatically add the taxes to the first result. This makes Economy Travel quicker and easier. Overall, we think that Economy Travel’s search engine is quicker than Vayama, but Vayama usually came up with cheaper fares by a hair. We recommend that you compare international flights on both sites prior to booking your flight to ensure you are getting the best price, because it is a bit of a toss-up. You may appreciate a shorter itinerary, which you can find by comparing on both sites.

The Economy Travel fares are typically a few bucks more than other sites, and we think that must be due to higher fees, as the airlines are the same. Although, it is still worth a look before you book. Both Vayama and Economy Travel are the best sites for international airfares that we have found, but Economy Travel was not quite good enough to beat Vayama in our book. Read our review of Vayama for more information. Compare prices now on  Vayama.com (Link opens in new window)

Economy Travel Fees & Policies :

• Most airfares (economy/coach class) are non-refundable
• $250+ airline-imposed Penalty Fee for changes and cancellations to applicable flights, plus any increase in the airfare
• $350 Fee to change/cancel a ski package, at least 45 days prior to departure
• International airlines require passengers to call and reconfirm flights with the airline directly 24–72 hours prior to departure

* Based solely on research done by TravelSiteCritic.com, these figures may be inaccurate and are subject to change.Verify policies with the website before you book. Please  be aware of airfare taxes & fees , applicable to any booking that includes airfare.

Economy Travel Deals & Coupons:

Economy Travel has no current coupons.

$15 OFF*  All International Flights on Vayama.com with Coupon Code: CJFLIGHTS15

________________________________________________

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Read our  review disclosure  for more information.

Please  be aware of airfare taxes & fees .

Is economy travel a scam? Because I booked a flight ticket to Manila and they said I will receive the e-ticket 4-5 weeks before my departure and I paid in full

In February I booked and paid for flights to Peru for a family wedding (in August). The flights were not cheap, but Economy Travel was offering as good a price as anyone, with good transfer times, which were important to me as I was travelling with two small children. Two weeks later, Economy Travel contacted me to say that Air Europa had cancelled my flights. Economy Travel found me alternative flights, and promised me, in writing, a full refund for the cancelled flights. They, (specifically a person called DJ), said I would be refunded within 6 weeks, back in February, but nearly 7 months later, I am still anxiously waiting.

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Economy airline tickets are more expensive, but business class has actually gotten cheaper

It’s true – airfares are going up, but not as much as the price of other goods and services .

“While airfare has risen in nominal terms in (the) U.S. and Europe, consumers will appreciate that the increases are less than other consumables,” Jeremy Bowen, CEO of aviation analytics company Cirium, said in a statement. “Cirium’s data teams will continue to monitor the impact on fares of increased capacity in the market, despite challenges related to the availability of aircraft, be it due to groundings, engine issues, or supply chain constraints.”

According to Cirium’s data, the average domestic airfare in the U.S. was $179.25 in 2023, 9% more than in 2019.

Cirium said it compared those figures to the Bureau of Labor Statistics inflation data, which showed overall inflation at 19% in the same period.

Transatlantic airfare was also up in 2023, at $435.17 for a one-way economy ticket, compared to $381.08 in 2019, a 14% increase – still below inflation.

Cruising Altitude: I will fight for overhead space on a plane, but I shouldn't have to

Premium tickets have actually gone down in relative terms across the Atlantic. In 2023, a business class ticket was 3% cheaper on average than it was in 2019.

Business travel has been slower to recover post-pandemic than leisure, which may mean some airlines are discounting their business class tickets to help fill the cabins.

For travelers, the price adjustments mean flying in any cabin is a relatively good deal, since prices in other sectors of the economy are rising more quickly.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

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Tips on booking cheap flights.

Looking for the best time to buy airline tickets to get a cheap flight to everywhere? We’ve got you covered anytime, anywhere. Here’s how to find the best deal for flight booking no matter where you want to go in the world.

Which day of the week is the best day to buy cheap airline tickets?

For both U.S. domestic and international travel, Sundays can be cheaper for airline ticket purchases. Fridays tend to be the most expensive day to book a flight. Booking on the right day of the week could save you up to 6% on your airfare, according to historical data*.

When is the best time to buy airline tickets?

Based on 2020 And 2021 global flight data for Economy tickets, prices usually start to increase 56 days before departure for domestic flights. When traveling internationally, prices usually start to increase 21 days before departure*. Keep in mind that this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule; keeping an eye on prices is a good idea when trying to find the best airfare deals. Compare fares across different airlines, and set up a price alert for your preferred route.

Which are the cheapest days to fly?

Analysis of domestic and international airfare prices shows that flying out on Fridays can be cheaper. Many travelers start their trips on Sundays, so your chances of a lower price are better when departing early in the week instead. Starting your trip on a Friday could be almost 11% cheaper than air travel on Sundays, so book flights online wisely*!

Which is the cheapest month to fly?

The cheapest month to fly can vary depending on where you’re going, so finding the best rates largely comes down to avoiding peak travel times for your destination. If you’re looking for cheap international flights , the most expensive month tends to be February, while the cheapest is November with cheap flights in November offering potential savings of up to 34.6% relative to February. Cheap domestic flights work a bit differently, with March being the most expensive and August being the least expensive with cheap flights in August offering savings of up to 35%*.

How can I find the cheapest flights on Expedia?

Compare cheap airline ticket prices at a glance from a large inventory of carriers on Expedia. You can get cheap flights by staying flexible with travel dates, carriers, and nonstop/layover flights to get the best price. Insider tip: Become a member (it’s free!) to earn rewards back on every booking. We make your travel stress-free and source incredible airfare deals so you can sit back, relax, and start your vacation or business trip.

How can I save money on flights?

Mixing and matching airline tickets and fare types could help save money on airfare to your destination. Easily compare prices for carriers, arrival and departure dates, airplane cabin class, and more when you book with Expedia. Booking your plane ticket on a Sunday, and departing on Friday, could possibly save you money* based on historical data. You can also filter for flights based on your budget, such as looking for cheap flights under $200 specifically.

How can I get cheap last-minute flight deals?

The historical data analysis of flight pricing patterns shows that you can still find amazing airfare deals 3 weeks prior to departure* when traveling domestically. International last-minute flights offer great deals 2 weeks prior to departure if you’re flying premium, but economy travelers may want to strive for no less than 4 weeks out*. Try to stay flexible with travel dates, airports, and nonstop/layover flights to find the cheapest flights on Expedia. Whether you’re planning a quick business trip or a spontaneous holiday with friends, you’ll have your choice of last-minute flights, roundtrip, or multicity flights on Expedia. You’ll find everything you need for your travels all in one place — and all at the right price.

How do I book with Expedia?

Booking your flight with Expedia is easy, as all you have to do is implement your travel dates, departure destination, like flights from Atlanta or flights from Hartsfield-Jackson , and arrival destination into the search. Then, all the available flights for those dates and destinations will appear. You can use search filters to narrow down the results as well based on a variety of factors like the airline, number of stops, departure time, and policies like seat choice and refundable bookings. Additionally, travelers may alter their search for round-trip flights, one-way flights, and multicity flights.

What should I look out for when booking flights?

Several factors go into any flight booking, and you’ll need to keep an eye out for them all to ensure that you get the travel time, luggage policy, airline, and class you want. Consider which airport is closest to your ultimate destination (travelers to Los Angeles may prefer flights to LAX over flights to PSP , and make sure that the flight will accommodate all the luggage you plan on bringing. Additionally, consider the different flight classes including economy flights for functionality and premium flights if you want to enjoy a more relaxing experience.

Where’s the cheapest place to travel?

The cheapest place to travel can be in the same country, like Chicago. Flights to Chicago are fairly affordable no matter where you’re coming from in the continental United States. Flights to Las Vegas tend to be pretty affordable as well. While the Vegas airport isn’t a hub for any major airline, it does have plenty of competition to keep prices relatively low.

Where can I fly for cheap?

Staying within a strict budget still allows you to find plenty of cheap flights, even to destinations like Puerto Rico. In fact, flights to Puerto Rico don’t even require U.S. citizens to have a passport. Flights to Alberta and other destinations in Canada can be fairly affordable as well.

Is it cheaper to buy flights last minute?

Flight tickets can be cheaper at the last minute depending on how late you’re actually booking, where you’re going, and the kind of flight you opt for. For domestic flights with Economy tickets, prices usually start to increase 3 weeks before departure, and 4 weeks for international flights, according to historical data*.

Are fully refundable flights available?

Yes, several fully refundable flights are available and will be labeled as such right on your search results page in green text. You may also filter for fully refundable flights specifically to eliminate all flights from your results that don’t qualify. Just make sure to check the specific policy for each flight before booking.

Why should I book my flight with Expedia?

Booking with Expedia makes finding a flight easy, but that’s just the beginning of everything you can take advantage of. We also offer hotels, car rentals, and even activities that you can purchase with package deals available for travelers planning more than one aspect of their trip at a time. Plus, Expedia offers stunning cheap flight deals that can help you save with ease. As a One Key member, you will earn OneKeyCashTM for every eligible booking that you can use to save on future bookings. Plus, OneKeyCash can be earned on top of airline miles.

*Data specialists from both ARC and Expedia Group analyzed ARC’s global flight data to distil actionable information to help people save money on travel. While it’s impossible to guarantee when to find the lowest prices, after examining the variables, we were able to observe trends. Best day of the week to book and best day of the week to depart is based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August for 2021, sourced from ARC’s global airline sales database. Best month to depart recommendation is based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through December for 2020, sourced from ARC's global airline sales database. Best time to book recommendation is based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August for 2021 & average round-trip ticket prices for January through December for 2020, sourced from ARC's global airline sales database. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.

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Travel Will Inject a Record $11 Trillion Into the Global Economy This Year: Report

Tourism is expected to become a $16 trillion industry by 2034, the world travel & tourism council says., rachel cormack.

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All your jet-setting and hotel-hopping is having a significant effect on the global economy.

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The 14-figure sums can be broken down into three types of travel transactions, Bloomberg notes. Direct travel spending includes things like hotels, tours, and transportation, as well as public investment in these types of services. Indirect travel spending covers the expenses of those businesses, such as sheets and towels or the ingredients for the breakfast buffet. Finally, induced spending accounts for the trickle-down effects of hospitality employees.

In total, 142 out of the 185 surveyed countries are expected to exceed their 2019 tourism performance levels in 2024. Almost all nations are expected to see year-over-year growth, too. As a result, records are likely to be broken on a local level as well as a global.

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

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American Airlines Premium Economy 777 Review - Is it Worth Paying Extra?

M y experiences with US airlines, in general, have been mixed. I can't bear those internal flights in the super tiny planes where everyone appears to have brought the maximum hand luggage allowed on board.

I have tended to avoid US airlines when it has come to Business and Premium due to my low expectations. My last premium economy experience in British Airways had not really been all that premium.

However, I had had an excellent experience with Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy so I was curious to see how American Airlines Premium Economy 777 would compare.

US airlines have recently been doing some major investment in premium economy and both Delta and United have relatively new premium economy offers which I plan to try out. American Airlines was the first and launched premium economy in May 2017.

This means you are guaranteed a quite new premium economy cabin and premium economy seats when travelling with any of the three airlines which tends to provide a better experience.

American Airlines Premium Economy 777 Review - Making the Booking

I always start my search for flights with Skyscanner and then move on to Expedia . This usually gives me a good idea of the best options.

I then like to head onto the airline's dedicated site to check out the options around checking in bags, upgrades etc etc.

American Airlines has a new offer called Main Cabin Extra. This is an American Airlines economy class ticket that is upgraded when you get to pay to include extra legroom, complimentary drinks, preferred boarding, and free drinks.

This is between the economy cabin and premium economy so it may be worth considering.

American Airlines Premium Economy Routes are international, Hawaii and Alaska flights. The differences between the American Airlines Premium Economy 777 300 relative to the Main Cabin Extra are that there is a separate area within the cabin, larger seats and legroom, and priority check-in and security as well as boarding.

I'll cover the inflight experience on American Airlines economy plus in more detail later in the review.

A massive bonus of American Airlines Premium Economy flights was that I could pre-book an exit row window seat at no extra cost .

I couldn't believe this was available on American Premium Economy - and at no charge. Best of all, I was able to book it on the overnight leg.

I thought the prices for American Airlines Premium Economy were excellent value. My return flight including taxes was around GBP 770.

American Airlines Premium Economy - Airport and Checking In

American Airlines operates out of Terminal 3 at Heathrow.

It is easy to find - not far from Virgin - and premium economy American Airlines international flights have a preferred check in area.

Premium Economy on American Airlines also gives access to fast track security - not necessarily the case with Virgin Atlantic and British Airways.

A premium economy ticket does not provide access to the lounge. However, Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald have access to several lounges at Heathrow.

One of my key reasons for choosing to fly with American Airlines was that I am a British Airways Silver status - giving me access to all One World partner lounges.

I visited the American Airlines Lounge, which is area H - the Admiral's Lounge. It was a great lounge with very large comfortable chairs and wonderfully, they all had power and USB sockets.

The lounge felt quite new and there was a lot of space. The only downside was there was no real champagne. There were bubbles - Prosecco and Spumante - but they were never quite the same.

On the return flight, I received all the same benefits at American Airlines JFK - priority check-in and fast-track through security.

The American Airlines flagship lounge 12 is lovely and even has a terrace, although it is inside. There was a hot buffet and an a la carte menu at the American Airlines Lounge JFK.

There were several options available, like a Waldorf Salad. I chose the Korean tacos and they were excellent.

This was terrific as I could then eat before the overnight flight and focus on getting to sleep as quickly as possible for the duration of the flight.

Inside the American 777

The seat configuration of the Boeing 777 AA is 2 x 4 x 2 . Premium Economy is a small area of just four rows which felt nice. The whole AA premium economy cabin looked and felt very new.

The premium economy 777 AA seats themselves are 19 inches wide - 2 more than AA economy, so a substantial difference.

The AA 700 300 seat pitch is 38 inches - quite a bit more than the standard economy seats, which have a pitch of 31-32 inches (Main Cabin extra offers 36 inches). I am only 5 foot 6 inches, so I found it a more than adequate recline.

A highlight for me of the American Airlines Premium Economy 777 300er was the very flexible headrest which was great for resting. Also, the footrest has two separate pieces - almost like pedals - and was very comfortable.

On the return flight, I was in the exit row of the Boeing 777 so there were no pedals but lots of legroom.

It took me a while to find the power socket on the aa 777-300er. It is sort of hidden away under the armrest of the premium economy seat - accompanied by the USB port. Once you are seated, it takes a bit of yoga to get everything hooked up.

The best option is to gently lift up the armrest of the AA 777 seat for easy access. This little hidden area also has space for water.

I traveled on a Sunday afternoon out of Heathrow. It was a long weekend in the US. The flight was virtually empty. A good tip is to do something similar if there is a long weekend in the US when you plan on traveling between London and new york.

The American Airlines Premium Economy baggage allowance is generous, but an empty flight is easy to carry on bags.

Food and Drinks

The main meal on American Airlines Premium Economy 777 is served about one hour after departure, and then a lighter meal is offered almost there at a similar time before arrival.

The main meal on American Airlines' premium economy was a salad with a hot meal choice of prawns with wild rice or cauliflower mac and cheese. The dessert was a vanilla black currant cheesecake.

The pre-arrival was a Mediterranean salad followed by a chocolate and salted caramel pudding. I thought the American Airlines premium economy food was excellent.

There was only one white and one red wine to choose from on American Airlines' premium economy - a Spanish Macabeo (a pretty standard dry white) or a French Merlot.

There was a short but adequate range of spirits and beers/ciders, plus quite a few soft drinks.

Chocolate ice creams were brought out mid-flight on the leg between London and New York, which was a nice touch!

Entertainment and American Airlines Amenities

The American Airlines entertainment system was fantastic - possibly the best I have seen. There was an extensive choice of new movies - including one I had seen the weekend prior at the cinema in London.

Even better were the American Airlines TV programs on offer. The American Airlines entertainment system has shows from Amazon Prime and Netflix, which I have not seen on an airline before eg The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel.

They also seem to have a relationship with Universal/NBC and had episodes of new American TV programs that had not been shown in the UK. I was thrilled.

It is possible to use your phone or laptop, or tablet and get an entertainment app. However, the American Airlines Premium Economy screen is a great size (10.5 inches) and very good quality, so I don't think you need to use up battery life, etc.

The headphones were excellent quality and closer to business class style than economy. Wi-Fi is available on board, but of course, it must be paid for—unless you're happy to explore every section of the American Airlines website.

The American Airlines blanket and pillow were fairly standard and closer to economy class than business class in the thread count department.

However, I did like the blue and black striped socks and matching eye mask component of the AA amenity kit. The little toiletries bag was quite a cute Cole Hahn and the toiletries inside were Co Bigelow.

I hadn't heard of this brand but I liked its aromatherapy-based rosemary and mint smell.

The service was absolutely fine, but nothing really stood out. As you would expect on a premium economy flight - polite and efficient yet not at the level of business class of course, in the view of this flight review.

American Airlines Premium Economy - The Verdict

It's 5 stars for this American Airlines International Flights Review. I can't find a single negative thing to say about my American Airlines Premium Economy 777 experience.

The ticket was well priced. I received priority check-in, security, and boarding. The seats felt new and there was excellent legroom.

I was particularly delighted to be able to get a free exit row seat on the return leg. The American Airlines Premium Economy food was very good, the amenities good and the entertainment system excellent. In combination with my One World Sapphire and being able to use the lounges, I would struggle to justify paying much more to fly business class.

American Airlines Business class seats are only 1.5 inches wider than premium economy so the only real difference is the flatbed.

Looking at economy vs premium economy, American Airlines Premium Economy is definitely worth it at about double the price of an economy seat over the 15 odd hours in the air of a London-New York return flight.

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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 12: Etrav Tech Ltd., headquartered in Mumbai, has recently secured a significant investment of USD 3.9 Mn (INR 33 Cr) in its second round of funding, led by EaseMyTrip. This strategic infusion of capital, spearheaded by EaseMyTrip, marks a pivotal moment for Etrav Tech, setting the stage for exponential growth and innovation.

Specializing in providing comprehensive travel services to B2B travel agents nationwide, Etrav Tech covers a wide array of offerings including air tickets, hotel bookings, holiday packages, visa services, travel insurance, car rentals, and bus tickets. With a robust clientele consisting of over 40,000 + travel agents, 600 + distributors, and 700 + API/white label clients, the company primarily generates revenue from air ticket sales.

Under Heniel Rupaarelia’s leadership, Etrav Tech has experienced exceptional revenue growth, exceeding 100 per cent from FY 2021-22 to 2022-23. Recently, the company expanded its horizons by acquiring UAE’s Eagle Crest DMC, along with its subsidiaries in Thailand, Bali, and Vietnam. This strategic move aims to diversify Etrav’s portfolio and facilitate global expansion, thereby enhancing its market presence and contributing to industry growth.

Heniel Rupaarelia, the Managing Director of Etrav Tech Ltd., embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in 2017 with a travel agency, subsequently diversifying into travel distribution in 2018 by partnering with a leading OTA. Through these ventures, he gained profound insights into the intricacies of the travel industry. Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, he founded Etrav, leveraging his comprehensive understanding to address the needs of travel agents and overcome challenges, thereby demonstrating his commitment to innovation and adaptability.

The strategic utilization of the USD 3.9 Mn investment will play a pivotal role in fueling Etrav Tech’s ambitious expansion plans. The company aims to enhance its technological capabilities by investing in cutting-edge technology infrastructure to streamline processes and enhance the user experience for its clients. Additionally, it plans to diversify its product portfolio to offer a broader range of travel solutions, catering to the evolving needs of its clientele. Moreover, Etrav Tech intends to solidify its global presence by strengthening its foothold in key international markets, including Thailand, Bali, and Vietnam, following the recent acquisition of UAE’s Eagle Crest DMC.

Heniel Rupaarelia, the driving force behind Etrav Tech’s meteoric rise, expressed his excitement about the strategic investment, emphasizing the company’s commitment to driving innovation and delivering unparalleled value to its clients. He stated, “This investment marks a significant milestone in our journey towards reshaping the travel tech landscape. With EaseMyTrip’s support, we are well-positioned to unlock new opportunities, drive exponential growth, and redefine the travel experience for our clients globally.”

Delving into the specifics of the funding round, the investment will be allocated judiciously to fuel Etrav Tech’s ambitious growth trajectory. In the first round of funding in October 2023, the initial valuation was USD 69.78 Mn, with a post-valuation of USD 76.13 Mn and funds raised totalling USD 6.35 Mn from a diverse group of investors. In the second round, conducted in March 2024, the valuation remained at USD 76.13 Mn, with EaseMyTrip’s investment of USD 3.9 Mn for a 4.94 per cent stake.

On the Funding, EaseMyTrip’s CEO and cofounder Nishant Pitti said in a statement, “We are aiming at diversifying our portfolio in the non-air segments. After investing in hotels, we now intend to enhance our services for our corporate clientele, and investment with ETrav Tech Limited will be pivotal in the same. Leveraging their tech capabilities and expertise in dealing with B2B clients, we are confident to service our clients better with improved offerings. Strategic decisions like this mark a milestone in our journey and fortify our commitment to providing seamless travel experiences for our customers, backed by innovation and technology.”

As Etrav Tech embarks on this transformative phase of growth under Heniel Rupaarelia’s visionary leadership, the company is poised to set new benchmarks in travel technology. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and strategic investments, Etrav Tech is primed to shape the future of the travel tech industry and deliver unparalleled value to its stakeholders, propelling itself to new heights of success and innovation.

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)

This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.

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Research: How Ratings Systems Shape User Behavior in the Gig Economy

• Arne De Keyser,
• Christophe Lembregts,
• Jeroen Schepers

A study reveals surprising differences between displaying an average score or individual reviews.

Platform providers typically display ratings information to the user in two ways. Incremental rating systems, employed by platforms like TaskRabbit and Airbnb, offer a detailed view by listing and often providing insights into every individual review score. Averaged rating systems, used by platforms such as Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash, present an overall score that aggregates all individual ratings. Over a series of nine experiments, researchers found that the way low ratings are communicated shapes user experience and behavior in a number of ways. Their findings offer implications for companies choosing between incremental or average ratings systems.

Rating systems, integral to the platform economy, profoundly influence human behavior and choice. Platforms like Uber, Airbnb, Turo, and Upwork rely on these systems not just as reflections of past performance, but as proactive tools for ensuring quality and encouraging proper conduct on both sides of a transaction from service providers (such as drivers and hosts) and users (like riders and guests).

• AK Arne De Keyser is a professor of marketing at EDHEC Business School. His research focuses on customer experience, frontline service technologies, and circular services.
• CL Christophe Lembregts is an associate professor of marketing at RSM Erasmus University. His research focuses on facilitating informed decision-making by investigating responses to quantitative information.
• JS Jeroen Schepers is an associate professor of frontline service and innovation at Eindhoven University of Technology. His research centers on frontline employees, artificial intelligence, and service robots.

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Sandiaga visits Prabowo after backing rival candidate in polls

Friday, 12 Apr 2024

Related News

Ministry defends import restriction on laptops, TVs, ACs into Indonesia

Indonesia airdrops aid in gaza with jordan's help, aidilfitri holiday tradition spurs indonesia's economy as tens millions of muslims travel home.

Sandiaga Uno (seated, rear left), watches as PPP legislative candidate Agoes Joesni (right) takes the floor at an election rally in this file picture from Feb 4, 2024 in Pekalongan, Central Java. - Antara

JAKARTA: Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno paid a visit to president-elect Prabowo Subianto at his private residence on the first day of Aidilfitri, a move that could signal the two politicians’ reconciliation after they took divergent paths in the 2024 general election on Feb 14.

Sandiaga ran for vice president alongside Prabowo in the 2019 presidential election, which they lost to President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo and Vice President Ma’ruf Amin. He later shifted his allegiance to the Muslim-based United Development Party (PPP) after parting ways with Prabowo’s Gerindra Party.

For this year’s election, he joined the rival camp backing Ganjar Pranowo of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P). Wearing traditional Muslim attire in the distinctive green of the PPP, Sandiaga and his wife Nur Asia arrived on Wednesday (April 10) evening at Prabowo’s residence on Jl. Kertanegara in South Jakarta, CNN Indonesia reported.

Prabowo hosted a private gathering that day to celebrate Aidilfitri, also known locally as Lebaran, and welcomed a number of prominent guests including vice president-elect and Surakarta Mayor Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the eldest son of President Jokowi.

"I’m here for the Lebaran celebration only,” Sandiaga briefly told reporters afterward, as quoted by CNN Indonesia.

Sandiaga has hinted several times at a possibility that the PPP could realign with Prabowo, saying the party was open to supporting the incoming government to take an active part in building the nation.

For the first time since its establishment in 1973, the PPP failed to secure a seat at the House of Representatives in the 2024 legislative election when it won 3.87 per cent of the vote, just 0.13 percentage point shy of the 4 per cent electoral threshold.

The party is challenging the results of the legislative election at the Constitutional Court. - The Jakarta Post/ANN

Tags / Keywords: Indonesia , Sandiaga , Prabowo

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