Do airlines still give out blankets and pillows?

Yes, airlines still provide blankets and pillows, but it heavily depends on the airline, flight length, and cabin class; they are common on long-haul international flights and in premium cabins, but often require a request or purchase on shorter domestic routes, with policies varying from sealed, disposable items to laundered ones. Many travelers bring their own for hygiene and comfort, as these items usually don't count towards carry-on limits, according to this article from Reader's Digest.

Do airlines still give out blankets?

For one thing, in an era of increasingly intense price competition and pressure to control costs, many airlines no longer even provide complimentary pillows and blankets to all their passengers. Others still provide them on a limited basis, as upscale amenities for passengers in premium seats.

What happens to airline blankets and pillows?

Airlines collect used blankets and pillows, which are then sent to industrial laundries for high-heat washing and disinfecting, then returned to the plane in sealed plastic bags for reuse; however, on quick turnarounds, some airlines might just refold visibly clean items, while others provide single-use options or skip them entirely, with sealed bags generally indicating freshness. 

Can you ask a flight attendant for a blanket?

A pillow and blanket will be on your seat when you board. Most airlines anyway. LuAnn Mathews Montgomery and it says you can request it especially you are senior. Joc Lyn Luckily, I've always had one one provided in my seat.

Are airline blankets free?

If they have blankets [on US-based airlines] yes, generally they're free. Many, if not most, US airlines don't have blankets anymore for domestic flights. For international flights, they usually have them, and using them is included in the ticket price.

TOP 10 Travel Tips & Tricks From A Flight Attendant

Can I keep the airplane blanket?

No, you generally cannot keep airline blankets; they are airline property for in-flight use and should be left on the plane for cleaning and reuse, though some passengers do take them, and airlines often turn a blind eye for small items like blankets. While you're unlikely to face major consequences for accidentally taking one, they are technically meant to stay on the aircraft, and you can bring your own blanket on board. 

Why do airline attendants sit on their hands during takeoff?

Flight attendants sit on their hands during takeoff and landing as part of a mandatory safety protocol called the "brace position," which keeps their bodies rigid to minimize injury from sudden impacts, prevents hands from flailing, and allows for immediate, distraction-free response to emergencies during the most critical phases of flight. This posture ensures they are prepared to assist passengers without being hindered by their own limbs, explains People.com and Islands.com.
 

Can you keep the blanket they give you in first class?

The only exception is when a blanket is part of a take-home amenity kit, which is sometimes offered in first or business class. In these cases, the airline will make it clear that the items are a gift for you to keep.

What is the 45 minute rule for American airlines?

The American Airlines 45-minute rule means you must be checked in (and bags checked) at least 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights, though this can be longer at busy airports; missing this deadline means your seat or bags may not be accepted, ensuring time for baggage processing and security, notes American Airlines and Wanderlog.
 

What items cannot go through TSA?

The TSA bans items like firearms, explosives, sharp objects (knives, ice picks), large tools, and flammable liquids from carry-on bags, with many of these restricted to checked luggage (if properly packed/declared) or completely prohibited, while rules also cover liquids, powders, and specific sporting goods, so always check the TSA's "What Can I Bring?" tool for specifics before flying.
 

How to sleep on a plane without a pillow?

A hoodie or oversized wrap can double as a makeshift blanket or pillow, while comfortable joggers and socks help you relax into sleep mode. Slip-on shoes are also a smart move so you can discreetly kick them off mid-flight.

How often do airlines wash blankets?

Investigations and airline disclosures have shown that reusable onboard blankets are not always washed after every flight. On many airlines, blankets are cleaned on a rotation — often every 5 to 30 days, or only when visibly soiled.

Can you keep airline pajamas?

Yes, in most cases, you can keep the airline pajamas provided in premium cabins (First/Business Class) on long-haul flights as a take-home perk, but exceptions exist, like ANA's rental pajamas or items that must stay onboard. Airlines offer them for comfort during overnight flights, and they're often yours to keep, use as guest wear, or even upcycle, though some airlines like ANA have a rental model. 

How to sleep on an overnight economy flight?

Additionally, choosing the right seat is the best way to sleep better on overnight flights. You can adjust the seating plan based on your preference, but I recommend reserving a window seat. Window seats are well-known to be the best spot to rest during the flight, with views outside and less to be nudged.

How much is a blanket on American Airlines?

American Airlines to charge $8 for blankets. Now that air travelers are warming to the idea of paying extra for service amenities, American Airlines is going to ask them to pay to stay warm in the air.

Should I wear a mask on a plane in 2025?

In 2025, masks aren't required on most domestic flights in the US, but it's still a smart precaution, especially in crowded areas, to protect yourself and others from respiratory viruses like flu or COVID-19, particularly if you're vulnerable or traveling during peak season. Use high-quality masks (KN95/N95), keep them on during boarding/deplaning, practice hand hygiene, and check rules for international flights, as policies vary.
 

Is it better to carry-on or check bags?

Checked luggage is the best option for serious travelers. It's the right choice for when you need more packing space, especially if you plan to return home with large souvenirs and gifts. For longer trips of a month or more, checked luggage is the way to go unless you want to live within carry-on size limitations.

What am I entitled to when my flight is delayed?

When your flight is delayed, you're generally entitled to rebooking, and if the delay is the airline's fault (controllable), you can get food, hotel (for overnight), and potentially extra compensation like vouchers; however, for uncontrollable delays (weather), your rights are fewer, but you can still get a refund if you don't accept alternative flights, and many airlines offer some amenities like Wi-Fi or meal vouchers. Regulations vary, with EU rules (EC 261) being stricter (meals, hotel, calls after delays) than U.S. rules, where airline policies and the DOT dashboard guide entitlements, especially for controllable issues. 

How many bags can you carry-on American Airlines for free?

American Airlines allows one carry-on bag and one personal item for free in all cabins, but free checked bags depend heavily on your ticket class, elite status, credit card, or destination; Basic Economy usually charges for checked bags, while Main Cabin often has a first bag fee, but Premium cabins (First, Business, Premium Economy) include 2 free checked bags, with elite members and certain cards getting more. 

Do airlines reuse pillows?

Reuse cycles and retirement decisions

Retired items rarely go to waste. Many airlines donate worn blankets and pillows to community shelters, animal rescues, or aid organizations. This reduces textile disposal and allows the items to continue serving practical needs.

What do you do with the towel in first class?

They're meant to cleanse hands and face, but first-class slobs are using them to scrub their foul and funky places. Hot towels often come as a complimentary amenity to passengers with premium status on airplanes.

Are you supposed to dress up for first class?

While most airlines don't have a dress code for First Class cabins, many passengers opt to wear business-casual attire rather than the usual sweats and flip-flops – if you are looking to dress on the more formal side then slacks, skirts, or chinos will suffice, paired with shirts or blouses.

What were the last words of the 9 11 flight attendant?

After reporting valuable information for about 20 minutes, her final words to Woodward were, “I see water. I see buildings. We're flying low, we're flying way too low.” Moments later, the aircraft crashed through the North Tower, killing all aboard.

What do flight attendants notice about you when you sit down?

What clothing you're wearing. If you notice flight attendants scanning you up and down, chances are they're observing your clothing and accessory choices. “You'd be surprised at what people wear!” says Irizarry.