An experienced flight attendant has shared six little-known in-flight perks that passengers can request, revealing that cabin crew are often happy to help with requests most travellers never think to make.
Sille Rydell, who has worked as cabin crew for six years, shares insider aviation tips on TikTok and Instagram. She recently went viral for highlighting the surprising in-flight essentials passengers do not realise they can ask for.
Never suffer in silence
Rydell's golden rule is simple: never suffer in silence. She said: "Help in general, even if you think it's strange or embarrassing, we have most likely heard it before and probably know the solution."
Her advice encourages passengers to speak up rather than endure discomfort, noting that crew members have almost certainly dealt with similar requests before.
Six perks you can request
The first perk is a bag of ice. Passengers experiencing swollen feet or a throbbing headache can request ice in a bag from the crew to use as an improvised cold compress.
Plasters are also available. If rushing through the terminal to catch a gate has caused a painful blister, crew frequently carry first-aid kits on board to help.
More water is another request worth making. Hydration is crucial, particularly on lengthy flights where reduced humidity can leave passengers feeling parched, so asking for additional supplies when necessary is encouraged.
A sick bag is typically located in the seat pocket ahead, but if one is unavailable, passengers should request one before any mishap occurs. As Rydell observes, nobody is passing judgement.
Mobility help and hot water
Mobility assistance is also available. If a passenger is finding it difficult to walk or worrying about a narrow connection time, informing the crew may lead to airport staff being contacted ahead of landing to organise a buggy or wheelchair at the arrival gate, even without advance booking.
Hot water can be requested for those who favour their own tea brand or have packed instant noodles to economise. Crew can fill a container with boiling water, offering familiar comforts that make journeys considerably easier.
Rydell's advice ultimately comes down to a simple phrase: if you do not ask, you do not get. That applies at 30,000 feet, with the reminder to be respectful to cabin crew when requesting help.
