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Is United Economy Plus worth paying extra for? On a Chicago to San Diego flight, I paid about $70 each way to find out.
Here’s what you actually get: the legroom, the power plugs, working on a laptop, and a couple of things to keep in mind. My under-seat backpack ate into my legroom, so the box below links a slimmer under-seat travel backpack.
- Noticeably more legroom
- Room to open and work on a laptop
- Less risk of the seat ahead crushing your laptop
- Power outlets between the seats
- Outlets can get kicked or knocked loose
- Still not full stretch-out room with a bag under the seat
- Armrests sit low
- Price varies by flight
▶ Watch the full review on YouTube
What Economy Plus gets you
You get the standard 17-inch seat with a little more legroom, maybe 6 inches more. I’ve seen seat pitch numbers anywhere from 34 to 36 inches.
On my Chicago to San Diego flight, it was about a $70 upgrade each way. You have to weigh what it’s worth to you.
Power plugs
There are power plugs between the seats on the seat in front of you, and they take US or European plugs. So you can plug in your computer and actually do some work.
They’re in a spot where they can get kicked. My neighbor actually knocked out my other neighbor’s plug.
Working on a laptop
The extra legroom also means your tray table has more real estate front to back. You can set up a laptop, work on it, and have elbow room.
You don’t have to worry as much about the seat in front crushing your laptop like in standard economy.
The backpack problem
I carried on two small items, and my backpack had to go under the seat in front of me. Because of the backpack and the 36-inch pitch, I couldn’t stretch out completely; I had to put my feet on either side and straddle it.
It was still pretty comfortable. If your under-seat item is smaller than a day pack, it’ll be even less in the way.
Low armrests
The armrests seem much lower, which I’ve noticed on other flights too. That keeps them out of your way when you’re working on a laptop, but they’re too low for me to actually rest my arms comfortably.
Is it worth it?
If your flight is more than a few hours, investing in a little more comfort can make a huge difference. Prices vary, but it’s definitely worth it if you’re spending a lot of time in a tin can up in the sky.
FAQ
How much legroom does United Economy Plus have?
I’ve seen 34 to 36 inches of seat pitch quoted, maybe 6 inches more than standard.
How much did the upgrade cost?
About $70 each way from Chicago to San Diego; it varies by flight.
Are there power outlets?
Yes, between the seats, for US or European plugs.
Can you work on a laptop?
Yes. The tray table has more room front to back.
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