9 Things You Can Legally Take With You From a Plane

Air travel can be a hassle (especially if you’ve got little ones), but there are a few little wins you can snag along the way—things you’re completely allowed to take with you from the plane. These aren’t shady, sneaky grabs; they’re the stuff airlines don’t reuse or expect you to keep.

These small perks can make your flight feel a bit more worthwhile. Knowing what’s fair game can save you from second-guessing and let you enjoy a few extra travel benefits guilt-free.

Take the Germ Protection Gear

Airlines are stepping up their game when it comes to cleanliness, and many now offer sanitizing products to keep things as germ-free as possible. Delta hands out care kits with a face mask and Purell hand sanitizer, while United offers disinfectant wipes. Here’s the thing: once these items touch you, they’re not reused. So, if you don’t use them mid-flight, toss them in your bag and keep them handy for the rest of your trip. It’s a practical way to stay safe while getting the most out of your ticket.

Eye Masks Are Yours to Keep

If you’ve ever snagged a nap on a plane, you know how helpful those little eye masks can be. The good news? They’re not something airlines can recycle for other passengers, so they’re fair game to take home. Whether you want to stash it for another trip or just keep it as a backup sleep aid, it’s totally yours to keep. Plus, considering how close it gets to your face, no one else would want to reuse it anyway.

Amenity Bags Are a Gift

The little amenity kits handed out on long-haul flights are yours to keep. These kits usually include eye masks, socks, or a toothbrush and are designed for single-use, so airlines won’t be asking for them back. If you don’t need them, consider giving them to someone else—they’re handy for travelers or even local shelters.

Interestingly, this same rule often applies to hotel toiletries. Taking them home can be more sustainable than leaving them behind, where they’d likely go to waste. It’s a small way to make use of items that might otherwise be tossed.

Plastic Tableware Is Fine, But Skip the Silver

Plastic forks and knives from your meal? Go ahead and take them—they’re meant for single use. But when it comes to fancy tableware, think twice. Virgin Atlantic’s adorable plane-shaped salt and pepper shakers, for example, are a fan favorite. These “pinched from Virgin Atlantic” collectibles are stamped with a message on the bottom, as the airline knows passengers can’t resist them. Just don’t go overboard or snag something awkward, like metal cutlery from business class.

Airsickness Bags Are All Yours

Believe it or not, airsickness bags are a niche collector’s item. Travel blogger Clemens Sehi, for instance, has a collection of over 250 bags from 50 countries. If you want to join the club or just take one as a quirky souvenir, go for it. They’re designed for single use and won’t be missed.

In-Flight Socks? Absolutely Yours

Ever seen those socks handed out on long-haul flights? They’re soft, comfy, and 100% yours to keep. Airlines don’t bother washing and reusing them (because, let’s face it, gross), so feel free to slip them into your carry-on. They’re perfect for wearing around a hotel or even as backups at home. Just make sure you don’t leave them behind—no one wants to deal with mystery socks later.

The In-Flight Magazine is Free to Take

If you love flipping through the in-flight magazine, you’ll be glad to know you can take it with you. Many airlines, including Singapore Airlines and Malaysian Airlines, have confirmed it’s perfectly fine to grab a copy. Some passengers, like travel blogger Noel Cabacungan, even collect them. And honestly, it’s a win-win. You get a little piece of your journey to keep, and the airline gets to share its content long after you’ve landed. So, no need for awkward stares—just grab and go.

Food Leftovers Are Okay, but Be Mindful

Extra snacks or meals? Yes, you can politely ask for more if they’re available. Some airlines, like Virgin Atlantic and BA, have confirmed it’s fine to grab an extra serving or take your leftovers. In fact, it’s better for the environment, since unused food is tossed after the flight anyway. Just remember, if you’re flying into countries with strict quarantine laws, like Australia, don’t bring any food off the plane—it could result in hefty fines. And no, raiding the food cart is definitely off-limits.

Earplugs Are Yours to Keep

Those little packs of earplugs are lifesavers on noisy flights, and the good news is, they’re all yours. Airlines don’t reuse earplugs, so whether you use them or not, feel free to pack them away for your next trip. They’re small, practical, and always good to have on hand, just in case your next flight comes with extra noise.