The Best Perks to Enjoy When Flying

Got an upcoming trip coming up that includes flying to your destination? For many travelers, a flight is nothing more than a mode of transportation. It’s not usually something travelers look forward to, but it’s an unavoidable part of the holiday experience. However, what if there were a way to make your flight more enjoyable by providing you with perks to enjoy while in the air?

We’ve scoured the internet and information provided by airline carriers to uncover the best perks to enjoy when flying. These will transform the way you travel and may even make you look forward to spending time in the air. Why not let the flight kick off your holiday adventure and view it more positively?

Here’s a look at the best perks that you can enjoy on your next flight.

Kick Things Off in Style and Comfort at an Amenity-Rich Airport Lounge

Before you even board your flight, you can start enjoying the perks. If you haven’t had the opportunity to try out an airport lounge yet, you don’t know what you’re missing out on. Airport lounges are designed to be a more upscale, comfortable, and amenity-rich area to hang out in compared to general boarding areas.

These designated lounges aren’t available to the general public; instead, you typically need to have a specific credit card, a premium flight ticket, or be part of a customer loyalty program. You’ll need to show your documents to the lounge gate agent to gain access.

Once you are in the lounge, you’ll notice it’s much less chaotic and crowded than the general boarding area. Some offer free drinks, snacks, and meals, as well as workstations and Wi-Fi.

If you don’t have the necessary items to access the lounge, look into whether you can purchase a day pass. It can be worth the price to know your vacation begins in a relaxing and comfortable environment rather than a cramped and unpleasant one.

Ask for an Upgrade—Especially on International Flights

Another useful tip is to ask the airline desk agent about potential upgrades as soon as you reach the gate. There is never a guarantee one will be offered, but sometimes you can get lucky, and the gate agent can bump you up to business or priority class. That means extra amenities on the flight and, even better, roomier and more comfortable seats.

If you’re flying internationally, the upgrade will be even more impactful since you’ll be in the air for that much longer.

Settle in with a Complimentary Blanket and Pillow

Once you board your flight, ask a flight attendant about getting a complimentary blanket and pillow. Flights are notoriously chilly, and you have no control over passengers around you who may be blasting cold air from their vents.

Having a pillow can make napping a little more comfortable and help prevent potential neck and head pain. If you plan to sleep for more than a couple of hours, a pillow is likely a necessity.

In-Flight Menus Have Come a Long Way

In-flight menus have come a long way. While it used to be that airplane food was something people dreaded eating, today you can find elaborate menus. It’s not uncommon for airlines to offer artisanal and complex snacks and meals that taste like something you’d find in a high-end restaurant.

Keep in mind, your meal may not be included in the price of the ticket, so be prepared to spend money. It depends on the carrier and the length of the flight.

Maybe you don’t want to spend a lot of money, or you don’t feel hungry enough for a full meal. If that’s the case, ask about free snacks. Items such as pretzels and peanuts are usually free of charge. And because the packets of snacks are rather tiny, you can ask for seconds. Flight attendants are typically happy to provide more packets as long as they’ve got some to spare.

Another complimentary item is water and sometimes soft drinks and even alcoholic beverages. If you are served a meal as part of the flight ticket, coffee and/or tea will also be included.

In-Flight Entertainment That Often Exceeds Expectations

What better way to pass time on a flight than with in-flight entertainment options? This is a huge perk nowadays since these systems are so much more advanced and feature-rich than they used to be.

Depending on the airline, you may have access to free in-flight Wi-Fi, or it may come at a nominal cost. This means you can stream content like movies and TV shows, chat on social media, browse the internet, and even take advantage of casino freebies, such as the opportunity to enjoy 25 free spins on registration.

In-flight entertainment helps to keep your mind busy, provides fun, and ensures the flight passes by much faster. If you’re traveling with kids, in-flight entertainment is invaluable.

A “Welcome Kit” Can Be Useful for Long-Haul Flights

The in-flight experience has transformed immensely in the past few decades. Passengers have more perks available to them than ever before, with many being free of charge. It’s all about knowing what’s available to you and asking the right questions. There’s no reason your flight needs to be something you dread; instead, it can be a way to relax and unwind and mentally prepare for a fabulous holiday experience.