If you’re flying long-haul on United, don’t sleep on the Premium Plus upgrade offer at check-in. One traveler recently shared on Reddit (embedded below) how he scored an upgrade from Economy to United Premium Plus on a Los Angeles to London flight for just $88. Not $880. Eighty-eight dollars. That’s less than the cost of many Economy Plus seats on the same route.
You bet I snapped this up in a heartbeat. Felt like a glitch. Is this a usual price?
byu/SilentMode-On inunitedairlines
I don’t fly United often but users claim it’s unusual for an offer that low but it wasn’t a glitch. Here’s why this kind of upgrade can be an incredible value, even if it’s not typical:
1. Bigger seat, more comfort
Premium Plus is a true step up from standard economy. You get a wider seat with more recline and a footrest, making a 10-hour flight far more bearable.
2. Better dining and service
Expect upgraded meals and more attentive service. You’re not getting Polaris-style champagne and caviar, but you’ll definitely notice a difference.
3. Free checked bags
Premium Plus fares include two free checked bags. If you’re traveling with luggage, that’s a big cost savings.
4. Priority boarding
You’ll get on earlier and avoid the overhead bin scramble, which can be a real stress-reducer.
5. It’s sometimes cheaper than Economy Plus
As Reddit users pointed out, this particular upgrade was priced lower than Economy Plus on the same flight. That’s rare, but it can happen when Economy is nearly full and United wants to move passengers around to balance out demand.
Why United does this
It may seem like a pricing mistake, but there’s logic behind it. If Economy is oversold or nearly full and Premium Plus is empty, United can make more revenue by moving you into Premium and reselling your Economy seat. It’s dynamic pricing at work and sometimes the algorithm spits out deals that feel too good to be true.
If you see a cheap upgrade offer to Premium Plus at check-in, grab it. Even if it’s not $88, it can be a smart splurge, especially on long international flights. You get more space, better treatment and perks like luggage and priority boarding that would otherwise cost extra.
Keep an eye out next time you fly. United’s upgrade prices may be unpredictable, but when lightning strikes, it pays to act fast.
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