This is a great question! Many passengers are unaware that airlines, especially traditional carriers (not ultra-low-cost ones), stock various items and services onboard that you can get for free, simply by asking.
The key is to politely ask the flight attendant or cabin crew.
I. Comfort and Personal Care
These items can make a long flight more comfortable and help you rest:
- Extra Blanket and Pillow: If you feel cold or need more support, the crew will usually bring you an extra blanket or pillow if they have spares (often available if other passengers decline them).
- Amenity/Sleep Kit: Even in Economy Class, especially on long overnight international flights, you can ask for a basic comfort kit, which typically includes:
- Earplugs and eye masks.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Socks.
- Pens and Writing Kits: If you need to fill out immigration or customs forms, many airlines (especially international ones) carry pens or simple writing kits with postcards.
- Headphones: If your seat has an in-flight entertainment system and you forgot your personal earbuds, the cabin crew will provide you with basic wired headphones.
II. Food, Drinks, and Snacks
If you are hungry or thirsty, you don’t necessarily have to wait for the next service trolley:
- Bottled Water (Full): While they typically serve you water in a cup, if you politely ask for a full bottle, especially before settling down to sleep, many companies will oblige.
- Full Can of Soda/Juice: If you prefer the entire can rather than a glass full of ice and a half-pour, ask for the full can to keep your drink fizzy or to enjoy later.
- Extra Snacks/Meals: If you are still hungry after the main meal service and there is a surplus (more common on flights that are not fully booked), the crew may bring you:
- An extra portion of snacks (cookies, peanuts, pretzels).
- An additional dessert or roll/bread.
- Wine or Beer (Second Serving): On traditional international flights where alcohol is included, you can often ask for a second glass of wine or beer (of course, in moderation and assuming you are sober).
III. For Families and Children
The crew often has items available to keep young travelers occupied:
- Kids’ Activity Packs and Crayons: Many airlines stock special “kids’ kits” containing coloring books, crayons, puzzles, or simple toys to keep children entertained.
- “Pilot Wings” Badges: If your child loves airplanes, ask the crew if they have “Pilot Wings” pins on board. This tradition is still upheld by many airlines.
- Assistance with Babies: Crew members are available and willing to help with babies (e.g., warming up milk/food, providing changing space).
IV. Health and First Aid
Aircraft are required to carry basic first aid supplies:
- Basic Medication: First aid kits are available on board. If you have a headache, heartburn, or need a small bandage, you can request:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., Tylenol/Paracetamol, Ibuprofen).
- Band-aids and antiseptic wipes.
Remember: The key to receiving these freebies is to be courteous and patient. Flight attendants are often very busy, and if you ask with a smile, especially outside of peak service times, they are likely to accommodate your request.