From unlimited water refills to extra special meals and private cockpit tours, here are 10 free perks you can ask for on flights that most passengers don’t know about
Flying doesn’t have to mean making do with whatever’s handed to you in a tiny plastic tray, with airlines offering more hidden extras behind the scenes.
According to Serena Toselli, a luxury Australia travel agent, there are plenty of perks hiding in plain sight on your next flight – and they won’t cost you a thing.
Serena shared her insider tips on Instagram, revealing the ten freebies you can ask for mid-flight that most travellers don’t realise are available. Here’s what to request next time you’re cruising at 35,000 feet.
1. Refill your water bottle
Flight attendants are usually happy to refill your reusable water bottle during the journey, according to Serena.
Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to avoid that dreaded post-flight fatigue.
2. First aid kit or basic medicines
Cabin crew have access to a basic first aid kit and often carry essentials like painkillers and plasters on request.
They can’t hand out full-on pharmacy supplies, but they’ll usually help with the basics.
3. Visit the cockpit (while on the ground)
A rare treat for aviation enthusiasts. Once the plane has landed and passengers have disembarked, you can sometimes ask for a peek inside the cockpit.
Many pilots are happy to give you a quick tour if they have time – especially if you’re travelling with kids.
4. Special meal requests
Didn’t pre-order a vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free meal? It’s still worth asking if the crew have any spare special meals available.
If they do, they’ll often happily swap your tray for one that suits your needs.
5. Extra food
If you still feel hungry after your in-flight meal, there could be the option of requesting seconds if there are leftover portions – particularly on quieter flights. There’s no guarantee, but it never hurts to ask.
6. Child-friendly supplies
Travelling with little ones? Many airlines stock child-friendly items such as colouring books, crayons, or even small toys to help keep them entertained.
Some also have baby essentials like nappies or wipes if you’ve run short.
7. Comfort items
Some airlines stock comfort items like eye masks and ear plugs – particularly on long-haul flights. Those can make all the difference when trying to fall asleep on a plane.
8. Travel gadgets
According to Serena, some airlines might even carry tech gadgets for those who forgot them.
From universal adapters to portable chargers or power banks, it’s worth asking if you have forgotten your own to see what they have lying around.
9. Special pins for kids
Some airlines might even offer collectible pins for aviation fans. These can range depending on the airline, but they can reflect the tail of the plane or feature a special slogan.
10. Warm towels
You might be offered warm towels to help you freshen up, particularly on long haul flights. You can ask for one to wipe your face and hands if you need a pick me up before landing.
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