The United Travel Bank is essentially a prepaid account that allows United Airlines customers to deposit funds that can later be used to airline purchase tickets. It functions much like a gift card but is tied directly to your United Airlines account, offering a secure and convenient way to save and spend on air travel.
Funds deposited into the United Travel Bank can only be used for flights operated by United Airlines or United Express. However, these funds cannot be used for ancillary fees, such as baggage, seat upgrades, or in-flight purchases.
Here is a breakdown of how the United Travel Bank operates:
Creating an Account : To use the United Travel Bank, you need a MileagePlus account, United Airlines' frequent flyer program. Signing up is free and straightforward on United's website.
Depositing Funds : Once your MileagePlus account is set up, you can add funds to your Travel Bank via the United Airlines website. Deposits can be made using a credit or debit card, and occasional promotions might offer bonuses for adding funds.
Using the Funds : Funds in your Travel Bank are automatically available when booking flights through United Airlines. Simply select the Travel Bank option during payment, and the applicable amount will be deducted from your balance.
Expiration : Be mindful of the expiration policies. Typically, funds in your United Travel Bank expire 5 years after the date of deposit. Always check the terms and conditions associated with your deposits.