Did you know that these things on planes are free?

Airlines have a hidden menu of freebies that many passengers never realize. Even after you pay for your airfare, there are numerous free things on planes that come included. Major carriers often treat long-haul economy passengers to complimentary meals, drinks, and amenity kits. For example, the Dollar Flight Club’s Jesse Neugarten notes that “on international routes… airlines will often include multi-course meals” free of charge. (Indeed, Emirates and Lufthansa still hand out full meals in coach.) Travel experts stress that legacy carriers like Delta, United, and American tend to be most generous with these perks, whereas ultra-low-cost airlines charge for nearly everything.

At the same time, federal rules ensure some basics: commercial flights must carry safety equipment like oxygen and first-aid kits, and the DOT requires airlines to offer water during extended tarmac delays (and provides potable water under EPA standards). In practice, virtually all airlines volunteer to give passengers free drinking water, soft drinks, and hot coffee/tea whenever requested. Indeed, the only difference today is how items are offered: U.S. carriers no longer have to serve water mid-flight outside of delays, but almost all do it anyway as a courtesy.

In short, flying isn’t completely bare-bones. Carriers bundle various freebies into the ticket cost to stay competitive and keep passengers happy. The key is to know what’s available and how to ask. Below we cover every category: from food and drink to pillows, plus special kids’ perks, so you don’t miss out on these no-cost extras on your next trip.

Why Flights Aren’t Completely Bare-Bones

Air travel business models have evolved to balance low fares with extra services. As Travel+Leisure highlights, “full-service airlines like Delta, United, and American are going to be the most generous with freebies in economy,” especially on international routes. These carriers assume some amenities (like snacks, drinks, and safety equipment) will be provided to compete with other major airlines. In fact, even basic economy tickets still usually include one free personal item and access to onboard drinking water.

Budget airlines (e.g. Spirit, Frontier, Ryanair) strip away most inclusions to keep fares ultra-low, but they still must satisfy certain regulations. For instance, per FAA rules, every passenger must have access to emergency oxygen and first-aid kits. Also, U.S. rules (Air Carrier Access Act) require carriers to allow wheelchairs, canes, and assistive devices onboard free of charge. Many carriers also exempt families from fees: you can gate-check one stroller and car seat per child at no extra cost. These “bare minimum” freebies are largely about safety and accessibility.

Aside from regulations, offering perks is a competitive strategy. Airlines know that happy flyers are repeat flyers. For example, JetBlue and Delta differentiate themselves by providing free snacks and even free Wi-Fi on many routes. After COVID, as travel rebounded, many carriers restored amenities that had been cut. American Airlines, for instance, resumed offering pillows and blankets in premium cabins and introduced new bedding across first/business/premium economy. Southwest, long a dogma of free snack peanuts and entertainment, has kept up its free two-bag policy (at least until mid-2025) to maintain loyalty. In short, while airlines nickel-and-dime customers for checked luggage and seat upgrades, they still include many free things on planes as part of the experience – especially if you’re on a long-haul or international flight.

Complimentary Food & Beverages

Long-haul passengers are often pleasantly surprised: meals and drinks are frequently included. On international flights, economy passengers still get multi-course meals on most carriers. Neugarten notes that carriers like Emirates, Air France, Japan Airlines and Lufthansa all provide full meals (with entrée, salad, sides and dessert) as a matter of course. Even on overnight U.S. flights, American Airlines now offers full premium meals in domestic first class. (By contrast, short domestic hops may only offer chips or snack boxes.)

For refreshments, every major airline will give you free drinking water on request. At the very least you’ll get a cup of water or soda poured from a common can. By law, U.S. carriers must have potable water on board and must provide it during tarmac delays, so in practice flight attendants will refill your cup or bottle whenever you ask. In fact, savvy flyers often stash an empty water bottle through security and ask crews to refill it mid-flight – all free of charge. Soft drinks and juices are also complimentary; flight attendants can typically offer a whole can of soda instead of splitting it into cups if you politely request. Coffee and tea are universally free as well (even hot chocolate on request is often available).

Snacks beyond water are airline-dependent. Many legacy carriers include at least some free snacks on domestic and medium-haul flights. For example, Delta and JetBlue hand out name-brand snacks (SunChips, Cheez-Its, cookies, granola bars) along with drinks. However, low-cost carriers generally charge for anything more than water. Even so, FAs sometimes give out leftover pretzels or candy if asked – it never hurts to request. As one flight attendant blog points out, asking “Do you have any extra snacks?” can net you extra crackers or cookies once the service is over.

Alcoholic beverages: Complimentary booze is common on international flights for which alcohol service is permitted. Airlines like Emirates, Qatar, Singapore, Lufthansa, KLM and Air France all include free beer, wine and spirits on long-haul flights. For example, Air France serves free Champagne and wine chosen by their head sommelier, and Korean Air offers a world-class wine selection in coach. Delta and United also offer complimentary beer and wine on domestic flights (Delta does even in economy on transcon routes). By contrast, most U.S. domestic budget and short-haul flights either charge for alcohol or don’t serve it at all outside first class. Always check policy, but many international flights serve free liquor without asking you to pay another cent.

Coffee, tea, and hot drinks: These are standard freebies. Virtually every airline in every cabin serves coffee and tea (and often hot chocolate or soup) at no charge, if not on the ground then onboard. You may have to wait for the beverage service, but feel free to remind the flight attendant with a smile if you want a cup of joe or cocoa after meal service.

Free Comfort & Amenity Items

Airlines know long flights can be grueling, so many provide free comfort items to economy passengers. On overnight or long-haul routes, complimentary blankets, pillows, and even mattress pads are typically available. For example, Air Canada offers free pillows and blankets on most international flights. Delta and United similarly have pillows and fleece blankets ready in premium economy and business; and even in coach on transoceanic flights, blankets are usually handed out. (After COVID many carriers have reinstated these: American recently reintroduced pillows/blankets in first class, and has dual-sided pillows on business class international routes.) The key tip: politely ask after the initial meal service is done. Travel+Leisure’s experts advise waiting until the cabin is settled, then quietly saying, “If you have any extra pillows or blankets later on, I’d really appreciate one.” This approach is often rewarded – as Neugarten says, a respectful request at the right time “goes a long way”.

Speaking of amenity kits: on many long-haul flights, airlines hand out complimentary travel kits even to economy passengers. These typically include a toothbrush kit, socks, eye mask, ear plugs and sometimes lotion or lip balm. Emirates and Turkish have well-known economy amenity kits, and Travel+Leisure notes that Qatar, Etihad, Singapore, ANA and others also distribute them on lengthy routes. If one isn’t automatically offered, you can simply ask a flight attendant for it, especially if you see other passengers receiving them. Premium economy and business class passengers almost always get these kits, but some coach passengers will too on flights over ~8-10 hours.

Headphones and Entertainment: Most airlines provide free headphones and access to in-flight entertainment. On short flights, it may be just overhead speakers or seatback screens in larger jet aircraft. On international carriers with seatback TVs or streaming apps, the movies and shows themselves are free – you only pay if you want internet. Economy-class passengers can expect at least basic headphones handed out for free when the entertainment system is on. (Note: on newer flights, many have built-in video or let you stream to your own device, but wired earbuds are still provided on request without charge.)

If ever in doubt about entertainment, ask the crew. Often, even budget airlines have free streaming portals (for games or magazines) or magazine packs in seat pockets. Just remember: access to movies and music is free. The only thing you may need to pay for is Wi-Fi – though this is changing (see “What’s Not Free” below).

Sanitary and Hygienic Items: If you need a hand sanitizer, facial tissue, or disinfectant wipe, flight attendants usually have them. Since 2020 many carriers stock extra sanitizing supplies onboard. Asking politely “Do you have any sanitizing wipes?” will generally produce some. Likewise, items like aspirin or basic motion-sickness pills are carried in the onboard first-aid kit – you can ask a crew member if you feel unwell. Airlines are required by FAA to carry first-aid supplies, so there’s often band-aids, wipes, and medications available if you ask for them. (Some even carry spare tampons/pads as a courtesy.)

Flight Attendant–Provided Services (Free Things on Planes)

Flight crews are there to help, and many of the items above come directly from them. Beyond handed-out amenities, FAs can perform helpful services at no charge. For example:

• Extra Snacks or Drinks: If the cart has extras after the main service, you can ask for more. FAs often have unopened snack packs or cans left – just say “May I have an extra snack or soda, please?” As one travel writer notes, flight attendants can and will give a whole can of soda instead of pouring only half, if you ask. They also can refill your water bottle or cup on demand.
• Special Meal Requests: While not unlimited, crew may have spare snacks or fruit for dietary needs (gluten-free, allergy-friendly). If you requested a special meal due to a diet or allergy, you can sometimes get an extra portion of a safe item by asking.
• Seating Assistance: On many flights, it’s permitted to change seats mid-flight if empty seats exist. Southwest and others will let you move freely once cruising. For other airlines, simply ask a flight attendant if any open seat is available. As Travel+Leisure reports, FAs will often help relocate you if there’s a genuine issue (e.g. disruptive neighbor). Be upfront: approach the galley and politely explain you’re uncomfortable, and they will usually try to reseat you. (Of course, if the cabin is full, they can’t create space out of nowhere.) Likewise, if you need a seatbelt extension or different cushion for comfort, just ask – the crew carries these extras free of charge.
• Temporary Childcare: Flight attendants frequently assist families. If you need a hand, they’ll hold your infant for a moment while you visit the lavatory or stretch. They can also help strap a child into an empty seat if one is available. (Remember, infants in arms still count as a lap child with no seat fee, but extra seats with a car seat are free for children too.)
• First-Aid & Medications: As noted, planes carry basic medical kits. Need a bandage for a cut or an aspirin for a headache? Ask – crew typically stock a small selection of over-the-counter meds and dressings. These are not for you to take in mass quantities, but in a pinch, flight attendants will give you what you need (and they must carry at least one emergency medical kit by law).
• Wing Pins and Certificates: Many airlines resume the old tradition of giving kids (and sometimes curious adults) souvenir wing pins or “first flight” certificates. Carriers like Delta have brought back wing pins for children. If you have a child’s birthday or first trip, mention it; the crew might present a small gift or certificate, although policies vary by airline.
• Etc.: Need a pillow after the service? A change of a crying child seat? A guidance on what’s free? Just ask politely. As one etiquette guide suggests, after the main meal service, simply say “Excuse me – I know you’re busy, but when you have a moment could I ask…” to open conversation. And remember the golden rule: if the attendant says no or doesn’t have it, accept gracefully. FinanceBuzz reminds us: “there’s no harm in asking as long as you can accept the answer with good grace”. The worst outcome is a polite refusal.

Special Perks for Kids and Families (Free Things on Planes)

Traveling with children often unlocks extra freebies. Airlines and crews go out of their way for families.

• Free Childcare Items: Every major carrier lets you check one stroller and one car seat per child at the gate or ticket counter at no cost. This exemption is universal for kids. Don’t pay to check these; simply fold or gate-check them as you board. Bassinets and changing tables on wide-body aircraft are also complimentary if available.
• Kids’ Activity Kits & Toys: Many carriers provide fun surprise packs for young travelers, especially on long flights. These can include coloring books, crayons, puzzles, stickers or small toys. Airlines like Air Canada, Emirates, Qatar, Singapore, Lufthansa and United all have kids’ kits in economy. If none is offered automatically, ask the flight attendant if there is a children’s activity pack for your child’s age. Often they’ll have a stash of these under the cart. Emirates and Air France also give out plush toys or mini-games.
• Wing Pins and Certificates: As mentioned, first-time young flyers often receive wing pins or “I flew on (airline)” certificates. Not every airline advertises this, but many crews will do it if you mention it. For example, a polite parent can say “This is my child’s first flight. Do you give out a first-flight certificate?” In many cases, FAs will either hand out a printed certificate or sticker to mark the milestone. (If not, keep your own small note and they might sign it!)
• Child Meals & Snacks: Infants and young children often get special treatment. On international flights, airlines provide infant formula, baby food or toddler meals at no charge (if requested at booking). Even if you didn’t order a child meal in advance, the crew will usually happily heat up baby food or extra purees they carry. Some U.S. carriers distribute candy or special juice boxes to kids in economy.
• Family Boarding and Priority: Many airlines allow families with small kids to board early (free of charge) so you have time to settle. Southwest, Delta, United and others have “family boarding” zones or early boarding for parents with infants, without extra fee.
• Entertainment & Comfort for Kids: Most seatback entertainment systems include kid movies and cartoons. Also, airlines often stock extra pillows/blankets for little ones (sometimes smaller-sized) if you ask.

Tip: Always smile and mention kids by name. Crews love kids; saying “This is my son’s first flight” or complimenting the attendant can sometimes earn you a little extra TLC or a crest to commemorate it. Even if pin-giving isn’t a formal policy, some attendants will quietly hand one over if asked out of earshot.

Unique and Experiential Freebies

Beyond tangible items, flights can offer memorable no-cost experiences and collectibles.

• Cockpit Tours: One of the most exciting freebies for aviation fans is a visit to the flight deck. According to OneMileAtATime, most airlines still allow passengers to visit the cockpit (before or after flight) if you ask politely. Policies vary: U.S. and European carriers (Delta, American, BA, Lufthansa, etc.) generally permit cockpit visits at the gate (either before takeoff or after landing) at the captain’s discretion. Emirates allows it after landing, while Qatar forbids it altogether. The best approach is to ask a flight attendant: explain you’re an aviation enthusiast, and often the captain will invite you in for a minute or two. It’s free fun (and often yields a photo op) – just be mindful of the pilots’ time and any camera restrictions.
• Collectible Trading Cards and Models: Airlines like Delta and United offer free collectible pilot trading cards (and kid-themed aviation toys) to inspire fans. Travel+Leisure notes that Delta gives out airline trading cards for planes and crew members, often at the gate. United and Frontier have similar plane-spotter cards. These started as marketing promos, but many flyers love the novelty. If you see a pilot handing them out at the door, feel free to ask politely. In the past, some airlines (Swiss, ANA) gave out miniature model airplanes to first-class passengers – these are mostly gone, but it shows carriers recognize those special mementos.
• Upgrade Waitlist (Possible Freebie): Not exactly guaranteed, but worth mentioning: if you politely express interest in an upgrade, occasionally an airline might grant a last-minute free move to a premium seat if there’s a no-show. It never hurts to ask quietly, especially if you have elite status or the flight looks open. While upgrades normally cost miles or money, flight attendants sometimes upgrade a nice passenger at no cost if there’s empty premium cabin space – though you should consider this rare.
• Other Surprises: Keep your eyes open – airlines have surprised customers with things like free movie downloads, surprise snacks, or gifts (e.g. Southwest once gave an entire row free Fastpasses to Entertainment). These are discretionary, so again, polite inquiries often pay off.

Know Your Rights – Required & Complimentary Services

It helps to distinguish between freebies that must be provided and nice-to-have extras.

• Legally Required: Air carriers are mandated to carry certain items at no cost to passengers. This includes an FAA-approved first-aid kit and oxygen for each cabin. Flight attendants must administer or provide first-aid (such as a bandage or medication from the kit) if requested. The Air Carrier Access Act also obliges airlines to provide wheelchair assistance and accommodate service animals, canes or medical devices without charge. If you need help getting to/from your seat or through the airport, inform the airline in advance; they will provide personnel and wheelchairs for disabled passengers at no fee.

By law, U.S. airlines also allow one personal carry-on plus one personal item per paid ticket – this means a bag and a small item (like a purse or laptop) are included in the price. (If the personal item is oversized, the agent may have to check it.) Importantly for families, carriers must accept one stroller and one car seat per child without charging.

While free drinking water is not strictly mandated during flight (only during a tarmac delay), virtually every airline still provides it. EPA regulations simply require the water tanks be safe, and airlines voluntarily refill passenger water cups and bottles for free. In practice, if you ask for water or any non-alcoholic drink (even after service), it’s a free courtesy.

• Complimentary Carrier Policies: On top of laws, many no-charge items are part of standard policy. For example, even many basic economy fares now include one free small carry-on or at least one free checked bag (Southwest famously offers two free checked bags on every ticket). Airlines like Southwest and JetBlue include free in-flight movies or TV streaming on all flights. Likewise, even though Wi-Fi historically cost extra, carriers like JetBlue and Delta already offer free internet, and American will in 2026.

Etiquette: How to Politely Ask for Free Items

Knowing what is free is only half the battle; the other half is how you request it. Good manners can go a long way. Travel insiders emphasize timing and politeness: the best moment to ask is after the main meal service, when flight attendants have a bit of breathing room. Avoid interrupting during boarding, takeoff, or turbulence. Instead, when the cabin has quieted, raise your hand or approach a crew member gently and use magic words: “Please” and “thank you.”

For instance, if you want an extra pillow or snack, quietly say, “Excuse me, if you have any extras, may I please have a pillow/snack?” This friendly approach, coupled with patience, usually gets results. Always accept the answer with a smile, even if it’s “not available right now.” As one guide summarizes: “there’s no harm in asking as long as you can accept the answer with good grace”. The crew will remember polite passengers more favorably.

Pro tips: introduce yourself (for example, “Hi, I’m name and this is my first flight”), which can prompt small perks like a wing pin or certificate. Never stretch out in the aisle or shout down the cabin – discreet and respectful is the mantra. Show appreciation (“Thank you!”) when you receive an item. Small gestures build goodwill for possible future requests.

What’s Not Free (Common Paid Services)

To avoid confusion, here’s a quick list of things you still generally have to pay for:

• Seat Selection: On most U.S. and low-cost carriers, picking your seat in advance costs extra (except for elite status or families). Unless you’re a frequent flyer elite, economy window or aisle seats often incur a fee. (Some airlines now include free seat choice at booking on higher fares.)
• Checked Baggage: After any free personal item, checked luggage usually costs money on most airlines. Typical U.S. carriers charge $30–$40 for the first checked bag (as of 2025). A NerdWallet analysis highlights that these baggage and seat fees can easily surpass the base fare. (Southwest will let you check two free bags through May 2025, but other carriers now charge for each checked bag.)
• In-flight Wi-Fi: Although improving, broadband internet on most flights still costs extra. (Exceptions: JetBlue and Delta offer free Wi-Fi on most jets, and from 2026 American AAdvantage members get free Wi-Fi on all Wi-Fi-equipped flights.) Expect to pay or use miles for high-speed internet on a majority of airlines; free messaging apps may be provided on some.
• Premium Meals or Alcohol on Certain Flights: While many long-haul flights include free meals and drinks, this is not universal. Short domestic flights, especially on basic economy tickets, may only offer pay-for meals or charge for alcohol (except on Southwest, which currently includes free adult beverages on all flights). Outside that, expect to pay if you want wine or cocktails on a quick domestic hop.
• Upgrades and Class Perks: Moving up to business/first class or accessing lounges is never free unless you use miles or status. Any seats with extra legroom (exit row, bulkhead, extra recline) often have an upcharge. Premium snacks or amenity kits beyond the basic ones may be sold as well (though this is rare in economy these days).
• Airport Services: Services like rental strollers at airport, premium security lanes, or lounge access are not included with your plane ticket (unless you have a credit card or status). Food and drinks at the airport before boarding must be bought like any other restaurant.

In summary, ticket price + taxes cover many in-flight basics (personal item, water, safety provisions, basic snacks/IFE, family strollers), but most extras beyond that—checked bags, seat selection, Wi-Fi, etc.—are typically paid upgrades. Always read the carrier’s rules before you fly, so you know which freebies you’re entitled to and which ones will cost you.

FAQs & Quick Answers

Q: Are snacks and drinks always free on planes?
A: Free water, coffee/tea and often sodas are standard on all flights. Airlines typically include free snacks (nuts, pretzels, cookies) on longer routes. Legacy carriers and international flights usually bundle these in. Budget airlines may only offer paid snacks, though attendants can sometimes give out leftovers if asked politely.

Q: Can I ask for a whole can of soda?
A: Yes. Instead of getting half a can poured into a cup, you can ask “May I have the whole can, please?” Most attendants will gladly hand it over if available. It’s free, just a friendlier approach than saying “I want more soda.”

Q: Are pillows and blankets free on every flight?
A: On long overnight or international flights, yes – they’re usually free in economy. On short or domestic flights, they may not be provided at all, or only on request. If you need a blanket, just ask a flight attendant once the meal service is done.

Q: Is in-flight Wi-Fi free?
A: Usually not, but there are many exceptions now. JetBlue and Delta offer free Wi-Fi on most planes. Starting January 2026, American will give free Wi-Fi to its AAdvantage members. International carriers like Emirates, Air France and Qatar already include free connectivity in economy. Otherwise, budget carriers still charge per hour or per flight.

Q: Can I get an extra snack or meal?
A: If you have specific dietary restrictions (gluten-free, etc.), airlines will typically give you any extra items they have that match your diet. Even if you just want more food, you can ask. Flight attendants sometimes have leftover snack boxes or fruit once the main service is over. Be reasonable (they can’t serve you two entrees), but a polite request can yield an extra packet of pretzels or crackers at no charge.

Q: Do I have to pay to change seats?
A: Not if it’s empty. You can always ask a flight attendant mid-flight if there are open seats you can move to. Crew members will generally reseat you for free if they have space and it causes no hassle. (They can’t move you, however, if every seat is taken.) Remember to wait until they’re not busy with meal service, and explain your reason calmly.

Q: Can flight attendants give me medicine or first aid?
A: Yes. Airlines carry an FAA-approved first-aid kit on every flight. If you need aspirin, Tums, band-aids or antiseptic wipes, just ask the crew. They’ll offer what they have, without charge. They cannot dispense prescription drugs, but basic remedies are on board for exactly these situations.

Q: Are there special perks for kids?
A: Absolutely. If you have children, be sure to ask. Most airlines let you check strollers and car seats for free. Kids often get activity kits, coloring books, or toys on long flights. Many airlines also offer “junior pilot” wings or first-flight certificates for young passengers (just ask discreetly). Child meals and snacks for infants are free when properly requested.

Q: What about wheelchairs or medical devices?
A: Wheelchair and assistance services are always free. US law requires airlines to help passengers with disabilities at no cost. Airlines must allow one wheelchair per passenger, plus medical devices, as carry-ons for free. Any passenger who needs help boarding can request it ahead of time, and airlines will provide ground wheelchairs and escort you at no charge.

Q: How can I politely request a freebie?
A: Timing and tone are key. Approach a flight attendant after the main service with a smile and say something like, “Excuse me, when you have a moment, could I please have [item]?” Using “please” and “thank you” is crucial. Avoid nagging – one request is enough. And if they say no (because stocks ran out), just accept it with thanks. As one travel writer advises, asking politely and being patient is the best strategy.