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United Airlines Seat Selection & Seat Upgrade
United Airlines seat selection and upgrades provide travelers like you with more comfort & flexibility in 2026. The policies emphasize paid options for
Basic Economy and elite perks through MileagePlus.
Quick Overview
United’s 2026 international seat options depend on fare. Basic Economy has limits; Upgrades cost extra, and if you are a Premier member, then you get benefits.
Choose seats in the app, and always check aircraft seat maps for Polaris lie-flat beds on long flights.
Explore this guide curated for you for the latest rules, fees, and strategies for optimal seating.
Call us now to get expert guidance on United Airlines seat selection and upgrades.
United Airlines’ Seat Selection Basics
United Airlines Seat Selection and Seat Upgrade basics that you should know:
All Fares Except Basic Economy
You can pick or change seats when booking or later. Use the app or website to see the map and choose.
Other Fares
Standard economy fares allow seat selection via the seat map on united.com or the app.
Basic Economy Rule
Pay to select seats during booking or until check-in opens; otherwise, seats are assigned at check-in.
How to Select Your Seats
Use the United app or united.com under “My Trips” to view the seat map and choose/pay.
Seating for Family
Kids under 12 (up to 2) sit free next to a paying adult on the same booking. Thankfully, it works for all ticket types.
Changes
Seats aren’t guaranteed. They can change due to operational requirements; use the app or website to manage or change seats.
Upgrade Options for You | With Quick Details
| Option | Who It Applies To | The Details |
| Paid Cabin Upgrades | All passengers | Pay cash or miles to upgrade to Premium Plus, First, or Polaris if seats are open; available on the app or website from booking. |
| PlusPoints for Members | MileagePlus elite members | Use points to upgrade on United flights and partners like ANA; helpful for award tickets in 2026. |
| Economy Plus Seats | Elites and other passengers | Extra legroom; free for elites, others can buy anytime; costs $30–150 or a yearly subscription. |
| When to Upgrade | All passengers | Book early or check until check-in; monitor app for deals; no guarantees, elites go first. |
Also Read: United Airlines: Carry-On & Checked Bags Made Easy
Note: The prices are dynamic based on route and demand. United credit card holders and Golds/Silvers gain better Polaris saver access.
Steps to Upgrade
Access your reservation details.
Review cash/miles/PlusPoints offers.
Complete payment and verify your seat.
For Polaris, 1K members get instant on full-fare Economy. Note: Monitor for 2026 aircraft retrofits, enhancing premium spaces.
Here are your 2 Premium Cabins | As per the Situation
United Polaris
- Best for: Long-Haul International
- Seating: Lie-flat seats, often in a 1-2-1 or 1-1-1 layout, providing full beds for sleep.
Amenities: Priority services, Polaris lounge access (dining, showers), Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, amenity kits, larger screens, and upgraded dining.
United First or Business
- Best for: Domestic and Shorter International.
- Seating: Reclining seats, not fully flat.
Experience: A step up from economy but less luxurious than Polaris.
What are the Best Value Tips for Travelers?
- Book Economy Plus early so families can sit together.
- Frequent flyers may save with a subscription.
- Elite members earn extra benefits from better seats and credit cards.
- If flying Basic Economy, check in right at 24 hours to buy Economy Plus seats.
- Combine with Premier Access for faster boarding.
- For international, target Premium Plus upgrades before Polaris.
- Track announcements for dynamic pricing previews.
Need assistance understanding airline seat selection or upgrade options? Call us toll-free at +1-855-510-5187 for step-by-step guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a premium cabin on United
Here are 2 premium cabins: United Premium Plus (premium economy) and United Polaris (business class for long-haul)
Does United Polaris have lie-flat seats?
Yes, United Polaris features fully lie-flat seats designed for comfort on long-haul international flights.
Key features:
Pajamas are available on request for certain long-haul routes.
Full flat bed
Premium bedding (duvet, blanket, and cooling gel pillow from Saks Fifth Avenue)
Slippers are provided
What is the key takeaway for United Airlines Seat Selection and Seat Upgrade?
Choose Polaris for long flights for sleep and luxury:
Choose First or Business, which is suitable for comfort on shorter trips:
Use the United app for seat selection, changes, and upgrades.
Seat layouts vary, especially for Polaris.
Keep restrictions in mind if on a Basic Economy ticket.
For United Airlines seat selection, Basic Economy: Even paid seat assignments aren’t 100% guaranteed. They can change due to operational needs.
Do not forget to check the seat map to find the most private seats (often window seats in Polaris) for your specific aircraft.
What are the best seats on United Polaris?
The best seat depends on the situation: solo travelers aim for odd-numbered window seats (like 3A, 7A, 9A) for maximum privacy. While couples should aim for odd-numbered middle seats (like 9D/G, 3D/F) to reduce the divider for a “sweetheart” experience.
Seats to Avoid (Near Galley/Lavatories: Rows 1 (on some planes) and 11) (Even-numbered window seats as they face towards the aisle, reducing privacy).
Is the United Polaris lounge free?
No, it is not generally “free.” However, only passengers on United Polaris Business Class and Star Alliance First/Business Class get it.
Is there a difference between a United Club and a United Polaris lounge?
There is a huge difference. United Polaris lounges are premium, exclusive lounges for long-haul international business class passengers. While United Clubs are standard lounges for a broader range of members, elites, and general travelers.
United Polaris lounges come with full dining, showers, and quiet suites. United Clubs come with more basic food, drinks, and facilities.
Do you get pajamas on United Polaris?
Yes, you get pajamas on United Polaris designed for long-haul international flights.
Written by: MyBaggageInfo Travel Research Team
Reviewed & Updated: 2026
Disclaimer: MyBaggageInfo.com is an independent third-party travel information website and is not affiliated with any airline.
