What’s Still Free When You Fly Economy? More Than You Think

What You Can Still Get for Free on Economy Flights (Even in 2025)

With airlines tightening their budgets, unbundling fares, and charging for everything from seat selection to carry-on bags, it often feels like nothing is free anymore when flying economy. But despite the rise of ultra-low-cost models and à-la-carte pricing, there are still several things travelers can count on getting at no extra charge—no matter how stripped-down a ticket may seem. As we approach 2026, it’s helpful to know exactly what perks remain complimentary so you can plan smarter, save money, and avoid surprises in the air.

1. A Personal Item (On Almost Every Airline)

While many basic economy fares now charge for overhead-bin carry-ons, nearly all major airlines still allow one personal item for free. This includes backpacks, small totes, laptop bags, or under-seat roller bags—usually required to fit under the seat in front of you.
Tip: If you’re flying an ultra-budget airline (like Frontier, Ryanair, or Spirit), check size limits carefully—they often enforce tighter dimensions.

2. Water — Always Free

Even with reduced service models, water remains universally complimentary. Flight attendants must provide drinking water on request for health and safety reasons. You may not get a full-size bottle on every carrier, but cups of water are still consistently offered at no charge.
Tip: Bring a refillable bottle and fill it at the airport after security. This keeps you hydrated without relying on mid-flight service.

3. Basic Non-Alcoholic Drinks on Most Medium- and Long-Haul Flights

Short-haul flights under one hour may no longer include beverage service, but most airlines still serve free sodas, juices, and coffee/tea on flights over 1.5–2 hours, especially full-service carriers like Delta, United, American, Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa, Qantas, and ANA.
Budget airlines may charge for everything except water, but the major legacy carriers keep these basics free on most routes.

4. Snacks on Legacy Carriers

Although the days of full meal service in economy are largely gone for domestic routes, many airlines continue to offer complimentary snacks, often with some variation:

• United: Pretzels or Biscoff cookies

• Delta: Biscoff cookies, pretzels, or their signature SunChips rotation

• American: Biscoff cookies or pretzels
  International carriers sometimes provide even more generous snack options, depending on the flight length.
  Tip: On long-haul international flights, meals are still free almost everywhere, even in basic economy.

5. In-Flight Entertainment (IFE)

Seatback screens are free to use wherever available. Airlines like JetBlue, Delta, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Qatar Airways continue to offer free movies, TV, music, and sometimes live TV at no charge.
Even airlines without seatback screens often offer free entertainment streaming through your personal device. You may need to download the airline’s app ahead of time, so check before departure.

6. Headphones (Sometimes)

On many international flights—and even some long U.S. routes—airlines still provide free wired headphones to passengers. They’re usually basic quality but sufficient for watching movies.
Tip: Bring your own earbuds if you want better sound or plan to connect via Bluetooth (some new seatbacks now support this feature).

7. Blankets and Pillows on Long-Haul Routes

Complimentary blankets and small pillows are still standard on long-haul international flights. Some airlines provide them on overnight domestic flights as well.
Budget airlines rarely include these for free, but full-service carriers continue offering them as part of the long-haul experience.

8. Free Gate-Checked Strollers & Car Seats

Parents can breathe easy, airlines universally allow strollers and car seats to be checked for free. This applies even if you purchased the cheapest basic economy ticket. It's one of the few family-friendly perks that has remained untouched by airline fees.

9. Medical Assistance & Basic Comfort Items

Airlines are required to provide basic medical help and items such as:

• First aid (bandages, ice packs)

• Basic sanitary items (rarely advertised, but available upon request)

• Assistance for passengers with disabilities (like early boarding or help storing mobility devices)
  These services are always free due to safety regulations.

10. Wi-Fi Messaging (On Many Airlines)

A growing number of carriers—like Delta, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Aeroméxico—offer free messaging through apps like iMessage, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger.
Full free Wi-Fi is still rare, but messaging at no cost is becoming a new baseline perk.

Final Thoughts

Economy flying may not come with the perks it once did, but plenty of essentials remain free—even as airlines continue cutting costs. With rising travel demand heading into 2026, knowing what’s included (and what isn’t) can help you pack smarter, avoid unnecessary fees, and make your next flight smoother.

Related Read →Traveling on a Budget in 2025: Your Ultimate Guide