Flying economy doesn’t mean giving up every comfort. While airlines have cut costs over the years, there are still a few freebies hiding in plain sight. You just have to know what to ask for—or when to look around. Here’s a breakdown of eight things you can still enjoy at no extra charge, even when you’re in the cheapest seat on the plane.
Free Drinks (Yes, Even Alcohol Sometimes)
Water, juice, coffee, and tea are usually still offered for free during most flights. If you’re on an international or long-haul trip, you might even get a complimentary beer or a small glass of wine. That said, alcohol is rarely free on domestic flights within the U.S.—but it’s still worth checking, especially on premium routes or with more generous carriers. Flight attendants typically make their rounds early in the flight, offering basic beverage choices. If you’re feeling parched later, you can ask for more. Flight attendants are usually happy to give refills of water or another soft drink as long as service isn’t busy. Staying hydrated during air travel is essential, so don’t hesitate to speak up.
Snacks Are Still a Thing—Sort Of
The days of full-course meals on short flights might be long gone, but snacks haven’t disappeared completely. Airlines like Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue still hand out complimentary treats like cookies, pretzels, peanuts, or snack mix. On longer flights, you may get something more substantial—like a sandwich or packaged meal—especially when flying internationally. While some budget carriers sell snacks, many full-service airlines include at least one complimentary item. If you have a food allergy or preference, it helps to mention it early, as there may be a limited stock of alternative options. You can also ask for more than one snack if you’re polite—flight attendants often have extras and don’t mind handing out a second helping.
Headphones for the In-Flight Entertainment
You don’t need to pay for headphones just to enjoy a movie. On most international or long-haul flights, airlines still provide complimentary headphones for use with seatback entertainment systems. They may not be noise-canceling or high quality, but they’ll get the job done. If you forgot your own or just don’t want to dig through your bag, ask during boarding or when the entertainment system is announced. While some budget airlines might charge for them, many full-service carriers continue to offer headphones for free. Just remember, they’re usually collected at the end of the flight, unless otherwise stated, so don’t walk off with them by accident.
Pillows and Blankets (If You Ask Early)
Flying economy doesn’t mean you have to freeze through the flight. On red-eye or international flights, pillows and blankets are often available at no charge. However, supply is limited, and they’re typically given out on a first-come, first-served basis. That’s why asking as soon as you board is your best shot at getting one. Airlines usually keep these sealed for hygiene, but they’re not exactly plush or luxurious—think thin fleece and a small cushion. Still, they make a huge difference on long-haul flights, especially when cabin temperatures drop. If you’re someone who gets cold easily, it doesn’t hurt to bring a light extra layer just in case.
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Gate-Checked Bags for Free on Full Flights
Trying to cram your carry-on into an overhead bin during a full flight can be a nightmare. Luckily, there’s a lesser-known trick: airlines often ask passengers to voluntarily gate-check their carry-ons for free when bins start to fill. This is especially common on smaller aircraft or packed flights. Your bag will be tagged at the gate, loaded into the cargo hold, and returned at baggage claim. If you’re not in a rush and don’t mind waiting a few minutes after landing, it’s a convenient option. Just make sure you keep essentials—like medication, electronics, or your ID—with you in a smaller personal item. You won’t pay a dime, and you won’t have to fight for bin space.
Travel Assistance and Rebooking Help
Even if you’re flying on the cheapest economy ticket, airlines are still obligated to help you during delays or disruptions. If your flight is canceled, delayed significantly, or if you miss a connection due to airline error, you can speak to a gate agent for rebooking assistance. Most major airlines also provide customer service through their mobile apps, but speaking to a human at the airport often gets quicker results. In some cases, airlines will offer food vouchers, hotel stays, or transportation if you’re stranded due to circumstances beyond your control. This service is included with your fare, so there’s no reason not to use it. The key is to stay calm, ask clearly, and be polite—it goes a long way.
Kids’ Activity Kits or Toys
Flying with young children? Some airlines offer complimentary kids’ kits to help parents keep little ones entertained. These usually include coloring books, crayons, puzzles, or small toys. Not every flight will have them, but they’re more common on long-haul international flights and routes with a high number of families. If you’re traveling with children, ask early during boarding or soon after takeoff—there’s often a limited supply. Some airlines even have age-appropriate kits for different stages, from toddlers to preteens. While it might not solve every meltdown, a little something extra can go a long way in helping kids settle into the flight more easily.
In-Flight Magazines and Safety Cards
They might not seem exciting, but in-flight magazines are still around, and yes—you can take one with you. These publications often include travel tips, destination highlights, crossword puzzles, and airline updates. If you find something you like inside, no one will stop you from slipping it into your bag. Safety cards, on the other hand, technically belong to the airline, but they’re replaced often and occasionally taken home by curious passengers or collectors. Some even turn them into quirky souvenirs. Whether you’re bored or just curious about the airline’s route map, flipping through the seatback literature is still a free—and strangely satisfying—way to pass the time.
Final Thoughts: Freebies Haven’t Totally Disappeared
While many airlines have added extra fees for nearly everything, not all the perks of flying economy have vanished. From drinks and snacks to blankets and activity kits, there are still a few complimentary comforts available. The trick is knowing what to ask for, when to ask, and how to do it with a smile. So the next time you fly, don’t assume economy means “no frills”—you might be pleasantly surprised by what’s still free.
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