Skip to main content

Does air travel stress you out? You’ll love these changes to the United Airlines app

The United Airlines app released updates that are going to let passengers feel more in control of their flight

A United Airlines airplane on the ground at the airport.
Tim Gouw/Unsplash

We love having everything digitally at our fingertips, and United Airlines is capitalizing on this to make your travel plans fly a whole lot smoother. Just like you love watching that Domino’s pizza tracker to see where the driver is at with your food, the United Airlines app will make sure you know where your flight is and will help if anything goes wrong. Here are the changes to the app you’ll love the next time you book with United.

A person on a tablet on the United Airlines app.
United Airlines

The new United app upgrades 

Who doesn’t love when their favorite place updates its app with awesome new features? Here’s how your United reservations are going to get better.

Recommended Videos

Did your flight get canceled or delayed by more than 60 minutes? Instead of having to chat with a desk agent, the app will automatically present you with rebooking options, bag tracking, and any meal and hotel vouchers that you’re eligible for. These options will be available right on the app’s home screen. Sweet.

Here’s what you can do:

  • Have updates sent straight to you

You don’t have to be surprised by a flight cancellation or flight delay. All updates about your flight will be sent straight to your phone.

  • Change flight or rebook as needed

When that update hits, and you see you’ve been bumped or delayed, you’ll be able to fix it on the app. It takes the hassle away and will show you different flights to pick from if you need to rebook.

  • Follow the luggage

No one likes to show up without their luggage. Being able to track where your bag is every step of the way will definitely take a bit of stress out of traveling.

  • Call for backup

 Just text, voice call, or video call with an agent from wherever you are (no more waiting in lines at the airport).

United started beta-testing the new services on the app last year and had such positive results that they rolled it out for everyone to fall in love with. Not only does this take the stress off of the passenger, but the employees as well. The lines at the service desks at the airports are shorter, and employees have more time to assist other passengers.

It makes everyone’s day easier by letting United passengers feel more connected to the airline. With open communication and transparency at your fingertips, there will be fewer possible angry customers who don’t know what’s going on with their flight.

If you don’t have the app

Not everyone likes to have every app on their phone, and not everyone has room to download another app. That’s fine, United still has you covered. All you need to do is jump on your laptop, computer, or other device and go to their website to use the self-service option.

Airports and airlines only want happy passengers who get to their destination on time and with all of their luggage in one piece. There are plenty of factors outside of the airlines’ control that can sometimes keep this from happening (thanks, weather), but at least you know you’ll stay informed with these app updates. Before making your next United reservation, have the app downloaded so you feel more in control of your final destination.

Dannielle Beardsley
Dannielle has written for various websites, online magazines, and blogs. She loves everything celebrity and her favorite…
How long do AirTags last? Here’s what you need to know
Let us walk tyou through how to replace an AirTag battery
Apple AirTag on white table

If you travel often, have a knack for misplacing things, or just like the convenience of smart tech, you've likely heard of Apple AirTags. These small, button-shaped tracking devices can be life savers when it comes to keeping track of your personal items. But how long do AirTags last? Keep reading for the answers.
How long do AirTags last?
Apple AirTags are powered by standard CR2032 coin cell batteries, which you might already be familiar with if you've used other small electronic gadgets. According to Apple, the battery life of an AirTag should last more than one year under normal use. But what does "normal use" really mean? Essentially, this means using your AirTag to ping your items occasionally and having it emit a signal when nearby devices on Apple's Find My network detect it.
Factors that affect battery life

Frequency of use: If you frequently use the AirTag's precise location feature or trigger the built-in speaker to find lost items, your battery life will be shorter. The more you interact with your AirTag, the faster the battery wears down.
Find My network activity: AirTags work by tapping into Apple’s Find My network, which anonymously leverages the millions of iPhones, iPads, and Macs around the world. If your AirTag is in a busy area with lots of interactions, it might use up battery more quickly than one tucked away in a drawer most of the time.
Environmental conditions: Just like any battery-operated device, temperature and weather can play a role in how well the AirTag performs. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect battery life, sometimes leading to premature battery depletion.

Read more
The 6 travel apps every traveler should have on their phone
Download these travel apps today
Close-up of phone in man's hands with motorcycle in background

Travel stress can wreck even the best-laid plans. Whether you travel often or just once in a while, the right apps can make things a whole lot easier. These travel apps help with everything from itinerary management to unlocking the doors of the world's most exclusive airport lounges.
Best travel apps for stress-free trips

PackPoint
PackPoint is a travel packing app that takes the stress out of packing by creating customized packing lists based on your destination, travel dates, and planned activities. It considers the weather at your destination and the type of trip you’re taking -- whether it’s for business, leisure, or adventure -- and suggests items accordingly. 

Read more
Can you take non-prescription medication on a plane? Here’s the travel guide
What to know about taking medication on a plane
person rolling luggage through airport

Traveling can be stressful, and sometimes, a familiar over-the-counter medication is just what you need to stay comfortable during your flight. For headaches, motion sickness, or allergies, non-prescription medications are commonly packed essentials for many travelers. But can you take non-prescription medication on a plane? And are there specific guidelines you should be aware of? 
Is non-prescription medication allowed on planes?

The short answer is yes – most non-prescription medications are allowed on planes, whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally. However, there are some rules on how they should be carried, particularly if they’re liquid, gel, or aerosol. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States, and similar authorities globally, generally allow medications that help with common travel issues, as long as you follow specific guidelines.
TSA guidelines for over-the-counter medications

Read more