7 of the Best Freebies You Can Get in Economy

wdc tv news staff

23 hours ago

7 of the Best Freebies You Can Get in Economy

Key Takeaway

Even in economy, passengers can score perks like alcoholic drinks, amenity kits, and Wi-Fi, depending on the airline and route. Flight attendants are more likely to grant requests after the main service, especially when passengers are polite and patient.

Just because you’re flying economy doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a few special perks. Even if these extras aren’t always widely advertised, they’re often available if you ask. As Dollar Flight Club founder and CEO Jesse Neugarten points out, “Many travelers don’t realize that even in economy, a polite request can get you a few helpful extras.”

However, Quinn English, founder of FreeQuinnt Flyer, explains that not all routes are created equal when it comes to economy freebies. For example, he notes that longer flights are more likely to offer extra perks. Similarly, Neugarten adds that “international routes almost always offer more perks than domestic ones.”

Additionally, English points out that “full-service airlines like Delta, United, and American are going to be the most generous with freebies in economy.” On the other hand, both he and Neugarten tell Travel + Leisure that budget carriers tend to be far more limited in what they offer, which makes sense, given their focus on keeping costs (and ticket prices) as low as possible.

When asking for freebies, remember that a little kindness and patience go a long way. As English notes, “The most important thing to remember is that most airlines aren’t overstaffing flight attendants on each flight, so they have a pretty heavy workload, especially during boarding, getting ready for takeoff, and landing.” With that in mind, those probably aren’t the best times to make requests. Instead, wait until after the main service has finished and the cabin has settled down—that’s when flight attendants are most likely to have the time (and bandwidth) to help.

If you’re ready to take your in-flight experience to the next level, keep reading to discover the best airline freebies you can score in economy.

Meals and Snacks

In-flight meal served in economy class.

Cheryl Chan/Getty Images

Sure, peanuts and crackers can hit the spot—but sometimes, you’re craving something a bit more satisfying at 35,000 feet. According to Neugarten, several international airlines go above and beyond by offering complimentary multi-course meals in economy. Emirates, for example, serves full trays that include a main entrée, fresh salad or fruit, crackers and cheese, and dessert.

Japan Airlines (JAL), meanwhile, offers a fun twist on in-flight dining with their specially branded instant noodles, Udon de Sky, a warm, comforting treat that feels uniquely playful and quintessentially Japanese. Air France treats economy passengers to a French-inspired meal complete with a starter, hot main dish, cheese, and dessert. Lufthansa also delivers a generous three-course meal to economy passengers.

Domestically, airlines might not offer full meals on most routes, but Neugarten is quick to highlight Delta and JetBlue for their impressive snack selections. Both airlines provide name-brand goodies like Sun Chips, Cheez-Its, Goldfish, and Quaker Chewy Chocolate Chip Granola Bars. And, of course, the fan-favorite Biscoff cookie is available on both—a sweet little perk that many travelers look forward to mid-flight.

Amenity Kits

While we won’t turn our noses up at free food, a mini amenity kit can feel like a true treat. On long-haul flights, some airlines provide amenity kits stocked with items like toothbrushes, socks, and eye masks, says Neugarten. Sometimes, you might even score lip balm, moisturizer, or a tiny bottle of facial mist. He notes that Emirates and Turkish Airlines are two standouts for this perk; however, in our own research, we found that other airlines, such as Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, and ANA (All Nippon Airways), also offer this thoughtful extra, which instantly elevates the economy experience.

Wi-Fi

Wifi sign on the back of an airplane seat.

Santiago Urquijo/Getty Images

Free Wi-Fi is becoming increasingly common, and you’ll find it on airlines like JetBlue, Delta, and, starting in January 2026, American Airlines. Select international carriers, such as Emirates, Air France, and Qatar Airways, also offer connectivity regardless of cabin class, making it easier than ever to stay connected at 35,000 feet. (That said, you may need to create a free frequent-flier account to take advantage of these offers.)

Cozy Extras

Cozy extras like pillows and blankets can make a big difference when it comes to getting (and staying!) comfortable, especially on long-haul overnight flights. While these items aren’t always guaranteed on every airline, they’re often available on longer routes.

Air Canada, for example, offers complimentary pillows and blankets on many of its international flights, though other airlines may provide them in limited quantities or only upon request. For your best shot at scoring a free pillow or blanket, Neugarten recommends waiting until the main service is complete and then asking politely. “Something like, ‘If you have any extra pillows later on, I’d really appreciate it,’ goes a long way,” says Neugarten. “Flight attendants are way more likely to help if you’re kind and respectful and not pushy or entitled.”

Alcoholic Beverages

A passenger pouring a cocktail in flight.

Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure

Economy passengers of drinking age can enjoy free alcohol on many airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines. Lufthansa and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines also offer complimentary beer and wine in economy.

In addition to standard beer, wine, and spirits, Korean Air offers a special selection of wines from around the world, curated in partnership with Marc Almert, the 2019 ASI (Association de la Sommellerie Internationale) World’s Best Sommelier—a unique touch that further elevates the in-flight experience. Air France takes a similar approach, offering complimentary wine and Champagne (selected by the airline’s head sommelier, Xavier Thuizat).

Activity Packs for Kids

Even the littlest economy passengers can take advantage of fun freebies. “Airlines like Air Canada offer activity kits for kids, including coloring books and crayons, to help keep them entertained during the flight,” says Neugarten. “The key is asking nicely and ideally when the crew isn’t in the middle of a service rush.” Other airlines that offer activity packs for kids in all cabin classes include Air France, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, United, and Qantas.

English notes that “many airlines will have things like activity books or pilot wings that they’ll give out to children if you ask.” For example, he says, “My two-year-old daughter has a lovie and a mini stuffed airplane she got last year on Lufthansa, and she cannot sleep without them!” Similarly, Cathay Pacific offers children ages three to six special gifts to play with and take home as a souvenir to commemorate their time on board.

Trading Cards

Hands holding up different trading cards from Delta.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

Among the more unique freebies, Delta offers trading cards that highlight different aircraft in its fleet, often matching the exact type of plane you’re flying on. While the airline has been doling these out for over two decades, they only gained widespread recognition after going viral online a couple of years ago.

If you’re hoping to score one of these coveted cards, here’s what you need to know. As English explains, “Some—but not all—Delta pilots have these, so when they aren’t busy, feel free to ask.” He also suggests checking with a flight attendant first before approaching the cockpit, as it’s the safest and most respectful way to make the request.

Delta isn’t the only airline to offer this fun collectible: United and Frontier do, too.

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