Did you know that in economy class, besides coffee and snacks or lunch, you are entitled to many other things on long flights? Often you just have to ask the cabin crew politely. This will allow you to fly more comfortably.
What it means "fly more comfortably"? Since low-cost carriers have taken over much of the skies and plane tickets have become available for as little as a few euros, the luxury we used to associate with flying has evaporated. Of course, we don't mean the business class that keeps standard of comfort, but above all the economy class, which we passengers use to a greater extent.
Many factors related to passenger comfort vary by airline and often depend on the business policy of the individual company. Some airlines simply won't have certain things available, but that doesn't mean it doesn't pay to ask the staff politely.
Photo: Unsplash/Ismail MohamedFor the web platform Travel and leisure several flight attendants revealed what passengers on the flight are entitled to. Free of charge. Of course, in the case of a transoceanic flight, you are entitled to more credits, ie shorter distances, but you can often get much more than what is offered. That being said, you just have to ask nicely.
Things that help you fly more comfortably
Comfortable sets
On long flights, sets with travel slippers, a sleeping mask, a toothbrush and earplugs will be distributed to all passengers. In these kits, however, you won't find the luxurious hand creams and other items handed out to first class passengers. As it might be useful for you too, kindly ask the staff if they might be able to supply you with any of the products.
Photo: Unsplash/Mohammad ArrahmanurBottled water
On any flight you can get a free glass of water, in some cases even a bottle of water. A lot depends on the inventory on the plane and the policy of the company itself, but we see no reason not to ask the cabin crew about it next time.
Blankets and pillows for a comfortable flight
You can also request a blanket regardless of the length of the flight. The temperature on the plane can be very low, so blankets are always ready in case any of the passengers get cold. If you are flying a night flight, you can also ask for a pillow.
Photo: Unsplash/Hanson LuFirst aid
All commercial aircraft must be equipped with first aid kits containing the essentials – bandages, gauze and antiseptic wipes, and wound rinses. If you have an accident during the flight, just tell the flight attendant and she will bring you everything you need.
Medicines
You can also ask for medication for various conditions, from pain pills to fever and diarrhea. You will not find prescription drugs in the first aid kit on the plane, but you can ask the flight attendant for a pill against the headache that has been bothering you since takeoff. You don't have to suffer until you land.
Photo: Unsplash/Suhyeon ChoiBooks or coloring books for children
Some airlines also provide you with children's books, while others have special children's sets prepared for children. It's best to ask because you have nothing to lose. But you can trust us that your flight will be much calmer if the child is entertained by a fairy tale or enjoys coloring or watching a movie.
Additional snacks or another drink
On short flights, they usually do not serve a full meal, but only snacks. But if you're still hungry, kindly ask the flight attendant if you can have another package. Of course, it depends on company policy, but if you don't ask, you're sure to go hungry.
