Flying can sometimes feel like a hassle, but there are 11 airplane items that aren't stealing if you take them. Many travelers may not realize that certain items found on planes are actually meant to be used and can be taken without any guilt. From extra snacks to pillows, these items can enhance the travel experience and make the journey more comfortable.
Understanding what can be taken from an airplane not only helps travelers feel more at ease but also allows them to make the most of their flight. Knowing these details can turn an ordinary trip into a more enjoyable one, with little perks that add up.
Explore these airplane items that are fair game to take with you. Next time you fly, keep an eye out for these items and make your travel experience even better!
Headphones (on certain airlines)
Many airlines hand out basic headphones for passengers to use with in-flight entertainment systems. These are often inexpensive, wired earbuds packaged in plastic and meant for single use. Since they can’t be reused for hygiene reasons, airlines don’t expect passengers to leave them behind. However, if the airline provides high-quality noise-canceling headphones, these are meant to stay on the plane, and flight attendants may collect them before landing. Checking whether the headphones are disposable or reusable can help avoid any confusion, but in most cases, the ones in plastic wrap are fine to take.
Blankets (on some flights)
Depending on the airline and the length of the flight, blankets may be either disposable or reusable. Many budget airlines and some economy-class cabins distribute lightweight, single-use blankets wrapped in plastic. These are generally not collected after the flight and can be taken home without issue. However, thicker, fabric-based blankets—especially in premium cabins—are often washed and reused, making it inappropriate to take them. If unsure, checking whether the blanket was sealed before use or asking a flight attendant can clarify whether it’s meant to be kept.
Pillows (if disposable)
Small pillows distributed in economy class on long-haul flights are sometimes designed for a single use, especially when they come wrapped in plastic. These are often filled with synthetic material and may not be sturdy enough to reuse. Airlines that hand out these disposable versions don’t expect passengers to return them, so they can be taken without issue. On the other hand, larger, higher-quality pillows—often found in business or first class—are meant to stay on the plane. If a pillow has a removable case or appears well-made, it’s likely one that should be left behind.
Slippers
Many airlines, particularly those on long international routes, give passengers a pair of slippers to use during the flight. These are typically included in premium cabins but can sometimes be found in economy class on certain airlines. Since they are meant for personal comfort, passengers are free to take them after landing. The slippers are usually lightweight, made of fabric or foam, and not designed for extended use. Since airlines wouldn’t reuse them for hygiene reasons, they are considered part of the amenities meant for individual use rather than shared items that stay on the plane.
Socks and Eye Masks
As part of amenity kits on long-haul flights, many airlines include socks and eye masks to help passengers rest more comfortably. These are considered personal-use items, and since they are typically made of thin, disposable materials, they are not collected at the end of the flight. Airlines expect passengers to take them if they choose, especially since they are packaged for individual use. While the socks may not be the highest quality, they’re useful for wearing around a hotel or keeping in a travel bag. Eye masks are similarly meant for continued use after the flight.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Many airlines, especially those on long-haul or overnight flights, include a basic toothbrush and a small tube of toothpaste in their amenity kits. These items are packaged for personal use and are not meant to be reused by the airline. Since they are provided for hygiene purposes, passengers are welcome to take them after the flight. The toothbrushes are usually compact and made of lightweight plastic, while the toothpaste tubes are travel-sized. They can be useful for freshening up at the airport or keeping as a backup for future trips. Leaving them behind serves no purpose.
Earplugs
Want to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later when you're planning your trip!
To help passengers block out cabin noise and sleep more easily, many airlines include earplugs in their amenity kits. Since these are single-use and can’t be shared for hygiene reasons, they are always meant to be taken by the passenger. The earplugs are typically made of soft foam or silicone and come in a small plastic bag or case. They’re helpful for future flights, hotel stays, or any situation where noise reduction is needed. Because they are disposable, the airline wouldn’t reuse them even if left behind, making them a practical item to take home.
Lip Balm and Skincare Samples
Some airlines, particularly those offering long-haul international flights, include small tubes of lip balm, hand lotion, or facial mist in their amenity kits. These items help combat the dryness caused by cabin air and are meant for passengers to use both during and after the flight. They typically come in travel-friendly sizes and are branded by the airline or a partnered skincare company. Since they are part of a personal-use kit and cannot be reused, passengers are free to keep them. These small products are useful for travel and can easily be stored in a carry-on.
Snacks (when packaged)
Airlines sometimes distribute pre-packaged snacks like pretzels, cookies, granola bars, or crackers as part of their in-flight service. If a snack is sealed in its original packaging, passengers can take it with them. These are intended for personal use, and flight attendants will not collect unopened snacks at the end of the flight. However, fresh food, such as sandwiches or fruit, should typically be left behind unless the airline explicitly allows passengers to take it. Packaged snacks can be a convenient option for later in the journey, especially during layovers or long waits at the airport.
Water Bottles
On longer flights, airlines frequently distribute small bottles of water to keep passengers hydrated. These are meant for individual use, and taking an unopened one when leaving the plane is acceptable. Unlike plastic cups used for beverage service, which are collected, sealed water bottles are not reusable by the airline. Since hydration is important while traveling, having a bottle of water on hand can be helpful, especially between flights. However, if traveling internationally, it’s a good idea to check customs regulations, as some countries restrict bringing in liquids from foreign airlines.
Magazines (if not labeled 'For In-Flight Use Only')
Many airlines stock their seat-back pockets with magazines featuring travel articles, advertisements, and airline updates. If a magazine is not explicitly marked as the airline's property, passengers are usually allowed to take it. These publications are often refreshed regularly, meaning leftover copies may be discarded after the flight. However, safety cards, in-flight menus, and airline brochures should always be left behind, as they are meant for multiple passengers. If unsure, checking for labels or asking a flight attendant can clarify whether a magazine is meant to be taken.
Make the Most of Your Flight
The 11 airplane items highlighted show that enhancing the travel experience doesn’t have to come at a cost. By knowing what items can be taken without guilt, travelers can enjoy added comfort and convenience during their flights. From snacks to travel essentials, these perks can make a significant difference in how enjoyable a journey can be.
As future flights are planned, remember these items that are perfectly acceptable to take. Embrace the opportunity to enhance your travel experience and make each flight a little more pleasant. Safe travels and happy flying!
13 Travel Snacks That Won't Get Tossed at TSA Checkpoints
Bring at least two of these! Finding the right snacks for travel can be challenging, especially at TSA checkpoints. There are 13 travel snacks that won't get tossed at TSA checkpoints, making it easier to stay fueled during journeys. Choosing the right snacks keeps hunger at bay and ensures a smoother experience when passing through security.
Read More Here: 13 Travel Snacks That Won't Get Tossed at TSA Checkpoints
13 Hacks for Comfortable Long-Haul Flights in Economy
Have a more comfortable flight with these tips! Long-haul flights in economy class can often feel cramped and uncomfortable, leaving travelers dreading the journey ahead. However, with the right strategies, it is possible to make these long trips more bearable. Here are 13 hacks for comfortable long-haul flights in an economy that can help transform the flying experience into a more pleasant one.
Read More Here: 13 Hacks for Comfortable Long-Haul Flights in Economy
