On a recent trip back to Chicago from London, me, my boyfriend, and his two teenage daughters received upgrades to the United Airlines Premium Plus cabin. With all the traveling that I do, I rarely purchase higher priced seats for a few reasons:
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- In general, I think there are better things I can spend my money on when traveling. For example, a five-star restaurant experience or another splurge while on my trip.
- I’m 5’5” and am pretty comfortable in a regular sized seat, whether it’s a short or long flight.
- On international flights, you already get extras, like meals, snacks, and wine.
- I often travel internationally with points, and aside from the fee charged when booking a points flight, it’s practically free. And getting something for free is a thrill!
So, except for a few times when I’m traveling alone, a premium seat is typically a free upgrade.
We were all super excited, especially since we did pay full fare for our London flights, and it would take almost nine hours to get back to Chicago.
What is United Airlines Premium Plus?
Premium Plus seats are closer to the front of the aircraft and more spacious with additional legroom, elbow room, and recline. On select long-haul international flights, you’ll receive upgraded dining options on custom dinnerware with flatware and a cloth napkin. The section is just a few rows and has curtains separating it from business in the front and economy in the back. Here’s how United Airlines describes it’s different cabins:
https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/onboard-experience.html
The Space
Our overall space was roomier than normal, mainly because we were seated in the first row of the section, and my seat was in an exit row. We even had a mini coat rack to hang up our jackets! We didn’t have under seat storage because of the exit row, but I could keep the few things I needed in a pocket under the armrest. The bonus of sitting in this section, particularly in the first row, was the easy access to the business class bathroom. We had to open the separating curtain to access it. This bathroom was the largest one I have ever seen on any plane. If I’m getting an upgrade, I want all the perks! It enhanced my total experience!
The Amenities
The amenities are the little extras that I love!
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- Saks Fifth Avenue pillowcase and blanket – total upgrade from economy’s thinner blue blankets! It had a classy, cream herringbone design.
- Cute essentials kit consisting of lip balm, hand cream, earplugs, sleep mask, socks, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
- Earphones for watching TV and listening to music versus earbuds, so more of the plane noise was reduced.
The Food
The food did seem to be more premium. There was a snack, a sandwich, and a meal served. And of course, I had my endless wine! LOL!
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- Snack – Pesto Mini Breadsticks
- Large Meal – In the bowl was what seemed to be a deconstructed granola bar. It was a little soggy, and I didn’t care for it. The plated meal made up for it with zucchini, creamy polenta, seasoned chicken breast over rice, a roll, and ice cream for dessert. The ice cream flavor was Honey & Stem Ginger…delicious!!
- Sandwich – Turkey and Gouda on a Pretzel Roll with a fruit salad.
I have to say that our United Airlines Premium Plus experience was much needed after a fast-paced vacation; it made for an enjoyable long journey. I likely wouldn’t pay for it, but that’s just me! You might want to try it if the section is an option on your next long-haul flight on United.
Safe and Happy Travels!
Tamara