Originally Posted by
nanp
It says on the ticketing "United Economy (S), return flight is United Economy (K)." Now whether that is Basic Economy, ??? I think what is meant by that is the flight is not EconomyPlus perhaps. Regardless, I paid for my carry-on as a checked bag, as per their rules, but now may opt to take a larger bag.
That is not Basic Economy, which books into class N. You have regular economy (booked into classes S and K). Therefore, you're eligible to carry a bag onto the plane at no charge, if you're so inclined. I don't know whether or not United would refund the baggage fee.
Originally Posted by
nanp
United website states: "If you have purchased Basic Economy, you will only be allowed one personal item""Everyone else who is traveling on a Basic Economy ticket and brings a full-sized carry-on bag to the gate will be required to check their bag and pay the applicable checked bag fee plus a $25 gate handling charge". It may work out for the best anyway, now I can take my hiking shoes......
Well, there's always a bright side. :-) Basic Economy is a special class of highly-restricted fare that is currently only available domestically. The terminology is confusing, especially since you were shopping for a route where Basic Economy isn't sold.
Originally Posted by
nanp
BTW, can a sandwich from home get through the airport screeners or should I pack it in the check-on? Can I put a frozen icepack in my check-on or will that be confiscated? It has been a while since I've been through the screening process.
This is probably better asked in the TSA forum. I've had no problems bringing solid food through the checkpoint. I don't know whether an icepack would be allowed or not -- I've never tried it.