Basic economy fares are a hassle

Delta, American and United are offering controversial lowcost fares called “basic economy” in select markets to take on the threat from discount airlines like Spirit and Frontier.

When you’re searching for a cheap flight online, these fares will often have the lowest price. But there’s a catch.

Basic economy fares take away a lot of the amenities that passengers of the three full-fare airlines have come to expect, like choosing a seat so you don’t get stuck in the middle.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know before booking a basic economy ticket:

Delta Air Lines

■ Full-sized carry-on bag and personal item are allowed

■ Seats will be assigned after check-in or at the gate

■ Families may not be seated together

■ No same-day changes or ticket refunds

■ Board in the last zone

■ No paid or complimentary upgrades or preferred seats

American Airlines

■ One carry-on bag and personal item are allowed

■ Seats assigned at check-in

■ Fees to choose a specific seat

■ Not eligible for upgrades

■ No flight changes or refunds

■ Board in the last group

United Airlines

■ No complimentary seat selection

■ Advance seat assignments available for purchase

■ No group or family seating

■ No full-sized carry-on bag

■ One personal item (9 x 10 x 17 inches) that fits under the seat

■ No refunds or flight changes

■ No Premier qualifying credit or lifetime miles

■ Last boarding group Airline loyalty program and credit card members may be exempt from some basic economy restrictions. Read the fine print from Delta, American and United.

Carry-on bags

Delta and American will allow a carry-on and personal item for basic economy passengers. However, if you book with United, you may want to buy a bag.

There are carry-on bags designed specifically to fit under the seat and meet personal item size requirements.

Not following the carry-on rules will cost you. If a United passenger takes a full-sized carry-on bag to the gate, they’ll have to pay the checked bag fee plus a $25 gate handling charge.

In some cases, that extra fee alone can make the basic economy fare more expensive than a main cabin ticket.

Clark’s bottom line

When you think about everything you’re giving up with a basic economy fare, are the savings really worth it? The answer is probably no.

Basic economy fares were introduced because Delta, American and United need to compete with discount airlines in search results. To exclude basic economy from search results, download the Hopper app.