Depending on which airline you’re flying, you can get some surprising freebies you probably didn’t know existed in economy class.
Flight attendants are sharing the things you can ask for and they include:
- Free bottled water - You can almost always get a cup of water on a plane, but some airlines will give you a whole or half bottle if you ask.
- Blankets and pillows - These are usually available since some planes can be very cold.
- First-aid supplies - Commercial planes are equipped with first-air kids that include Band-Aids, gauze pads and antiseptic wipes and flight attendants can bring you what you need from those.
- Over-the-counter medication - They also have access to painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen if you need them.
- Kids’ activity books - Some airlines have these to entertain the little ones on board.
- Headphones - Don’t expect noise-canceling over-ear ones in economy, but you may be able to get some basic wired ones for free, or for just a few dollars.
- Extra snacks or drinks - If you ask politely, a flight attendant may be able to bring you another round of snacks and drinks.
- Basic amenity kits - On long-haul flights, some airlines provide these to economy passengers. Air New Zealand offers kits with toothbrushes, earplugs, and eye masks for sleeping. While they don’t come with luxury hand creams like you’d get in business class, they can help you freshen up on the go.
Source: Travel and Leisure