Free onboard services: what to ask a flight attendant for

Not everyone knows that you can get some free services onboard, regardless of your class. A glass of champagne or something sweet as a compliment from the airline is often given out, but for other things, you need to ask. The main thing is not to be afraid; they won't kick you off the plane for it. Here's what you can ask for.

Second serving of food

If you're not flying with a low-cost carrier where even a glass of water costs money, you might be able to get a second serving.  Once the flight attendants have served everyone, just ask for more. There are usually more meal kits than passengers onboard, and not everyone eats airplane food. If there's an extra sandwich, the flight attendants won't refuse. The same goes for drinks. Water is served in cups, but if one isn't enough, ask for a bottle of water or to refill your own bottle.

Nanny

Flying with a child but need to use the restroom or stretch your legs? A flight attendant can look after your little one while you're away. And Etihad Airways even has a special person for this – a "Flying Nanny." She is trained to care for children of all ages. So, while you take care of your business, your child will also be occupied – the air nanny has a large supply of games and activities for little hands and minds.

And if you have an infant, a bassinet is available. A couple of days before departure, contact the airline to find out what options from this series are available to you. If you book everything in advance, there will be no problems. Also, read the article on how to prepare for traveling with a child.  

Wiping down

It's said online that flight attendants don't always have time to prepare the cabin for the next flight. Whether that's true or not, we don't know, but it's still better to wipe down your tray table and armrests yourself an extra time. You never know what happened on them during the previous flight. But there's no need to shout about dirt across the cabin if it's not obvious – just ask a flight attendant for a wet wipe.  

Alcohol

Alcohol is more expensive onboard than on the ground, but some airlines offer a selection of free alcoholic beverages. Lufthansa and Air France will gladly treat you to champagne on long-haul flights, and on Finnair flights to the USA, you can choose beer or wine with your hot meal. If you need free alcohol, check its availability with the airline. Alcohol is not served on short morning flights – it's the start of the day, after all! You have a better chance of getting a glass during lunch or dinner.

 

Hygiene items

On long-haul flights, every detail is considered, even passengers' appearance. Virgin Atlantic Airways provides all passengers with a special travel kit containing a toothbrush and toothpaste, a comb, a wet wipe, a sleep mask, and earplugs. Similar kits are also available from the aforementioned Etihad Airways. Everything is miniature and practically disposable, but it's still nice – after a 10-hour flight, you'll emerge from the plane looking like a human, not a scarecrow.  

First Aid Kit

There's a basic first aid kit onboard. Not for all eventualities, of course, but enough for first aid: painkillers, bandages, heartburn remedies. If something happens to you, contact a flight attendant – she will do what she can. In emergencies, they ask over the intercom if there's a doctor onboard. If you need any specific medications, you can bring them with you. And to ensure they aren't confiscated at airport security, don't forget a doctor's prescription. To learn how to pack a travel first aid kit, read here.  

Comfort and Entertainment

On some flights, you don't need to ask for a blanket – flight attendants distribute them to those who want one at the beginning of the flight. However, no one will give you socks unless you ask. But the likelihood of getting socks is higher if you're on a long-haul flight.

And to avoid getting bored during the flight, especially if you're not sitting by the window, ask for a newspaper, magazine, or playing cards. Flying is more fun when you know these secrets. But you need to know your limits: don't be unruly or demanding, as airlines now maintain passenger blacklists. If you end up on one, you'll lose your flying privileges for a year. 

P.S: Free goodies can be obtained not only on the plane, but also in a hotel!