Priority boarding for flights is becoming increasingly popular among travelers, particularly as airlines adapt their boarding processes to better cater to customers. One key reason to consider paying for an early boarding upgrade is to secure overhead bin space for carry-on luggage.
Henry Harteveldt, founder of Atmosphere Research Group, notes that boarding priority allows passengers to race for bin space and avoid the hassle of finding storage for their bags if they board later. Sara Wilcox, an advisor at Fora Travel, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that securing your carry-on is the top motivation for early boarding.
The boarding process differs among airlines, but generally, passengers with elite status and those who select certain fare classes board first. Passengers who require special assistance, military personnel, and families with young children may also have priority. If you don’t fall into these categories, your boarding position often depends on the fare you’ve paid.
For those wishing to upgrade their boarding position, early boarding can be purchased as an add-on when buying tickets or closer to the flight date. Costs vary by airline and can be bundled with other services. For example, United Airlines charges around $24 for this option.
Using co-branded airline credit cards is another way to improve boarding position, as these often come with perks that lead to elite status. However, to reap the benefits, it’s necessary to use the card for ticket purchases.
Travelers can also consider opting for premium economy tickets, which come with assigned seating and improved boarding positions, though at a higher cost compared to standard economy tickets.
Choosing whether to pay for priority boarding or seat selection requires weighing the importance of overhead bin space against potential costs. Ultimately, passengers might still find themselves assigned to less desirable seats if they do not pay for early boarding, especially if they book a standard fare.
For those who wish to avoid additional charges, it is wise to be prepared for a potentially inconvenient boarding experience and stay hopeful for available space in the bins by the time they board.