8 Items You’re Free To Take From Your Flight And 7 That Are Off Limits

If you’ve ever eyed the items around your seat and wondered, “Can I take that?” you’re not alone. Turns out, some things are totally fair game, while others are a no-go. Some airlines may have varying policies, so double-checking is a good practice. Let’s find out the general rules to stick by when leaving the plane—starting with the things you’re free to take home.

Unused Headphones

Ever catch a glimpse of those sealed headphones and think, “Can I take these?” Well, you absolutely can. But only if they’re still wrapped in plastic and unused. It’s a little perk you didn’t ask for but can easily tuck into your bag. Plus, who doesn’t need a backup pair?

Free Snacks And Drinks

When the cart comes by, you’re offered a drink and some snacks. That’s yours to keep! Whether it’s a mini bottle of water or a snack bag, these are freebies handed to you during the flight. The best part is that you can still snack on them once you get off the plane.

Purchased Blankets And Pillows

As the flight drags on, you get comfy with the soft blanket and pillow handed out by the crew. But if they are ones you have purchased from the airline, they’re yours. Those cozy essentials can be packed away for your next trip. It’s the little things that make air travel a bit more comfortable.

Duty-Free Purchases

Shopping while you are on your flight is a whole other level of convenience. Any duty-free items you buy while flying are for you to take with you once you land. Whether it’s perfume or a luxury watch, it’s all part of the experience. Just don’t forget to hold onto the receipt.

Business Class Toiletries

Flying in style comes with perks, and those luxury amenity kits in business and first class? You can definitely take them with you, guilt-free. From high-end skincare products to cozy eye masks, these little extras are meant to enhance your journey. Airlines provide fresh kits for each passenger.

Germ Protection Kit

Have you ever grabbed a tray table and wondered how many hands touched it before yours? Airlines get it, which is why they hand out sanitizing wipes or complete hygiene kits on many flights. These aren’t just for the plane; you can stash them for your journey ahead.

Eye Masks

Bright cabin lights and restless seatmates make sleeping on a plane feel impossible. Enter the eye mask—a small but mighty tool for in-flight comfort. Airlines offer them on long-haul flights, and since they don’t reuse them, they’re yours to keep. 

Ear Plugs

A chatty seatmate, a snoring neighbor, or the endless hum of the engines—flights get noisy fast. Earplugs can be a lifesaver. Some hand them out in amenity kits, and they’re not asking for them back. Keep them handy for hotels or even noisy neighbors at home.

Let’s now look at the items you absolutely cannot take home from your flight.

Life Jackets

You might spot the life jackets neatly stored under your seat, but don’t even think about taking one home. These are critical safety equipment and part of the airplane’s emergency plan. Airlines keep tight control over these items so you won’t be walking away with one.

Airline Magazines

Is it okay to pocket that airline magazine? Sorry, that one’s a no-go. It’s not yours to take. Magazines are provided to entertain passengers during the flight and belong to the airline. It’s better to flip through them but leave them behind when you land.

Used Headsets

You’ve worn those disposable headphones during the flight, but don’t count on them being a souvenir. Once you’ve used them, they’re no longer part of your “freebies.” Airlines collect used headsets to sanitize and recycle. Next time, bring your own headphones to avoid this awkward “wish I could take them” moment.

Seat Cushions And Armrests

Ever think about taking a seat cushion or armrest as a memento of your flight? Well, that’s off-limits. They’re an integral part of the aircraft, and tampering with them can get you into trouble. They stay behind as part of the plane’s setup—no souvenirs here, folks, no matter how comfy they seem.

Flight Attendant’s Emergency Kit

Flight attendants carry emergency kits that contain specialized tools and supplies for in-flight situations. These kits are strictly for airline staff use and cannot be taken home. Even though they may seem like an easy grab, they’re essential for passenger safety in emergencies.

Oxygen Masks

What would it be like to have one of those oxygen masks in your collection? The short answer is that it is not for you to take! They’re a lifesaver in case of emergency, designed to keep you breathing if something goes wrong with cabin pressure. Taking one could compromise the safety system for the entire flight.

Toiletries From The Restrooms

The luxury of the plane’s restrooms can be tempting, but soap and towels are meant to stay onboard. Airlines provide these items for hygiene purposes to ensure a clean experience for all passengers. Removing them would leave the next traveler in an undesirable situation.