Flight attendant Sille Rydell, known on social media as Travel with SilleRydell, has shared on TikTok and Instagram a list of things passengers can ask for free during a flight, but often do not realise are available. She has worked in aviation for six years and regularly posts tips for travellers.
Among the useful little things you can get on board, Rydell mentions a bag of ice. It can be handy for those whose legs swell or who have a headache, as the ice can be used as a cold compress. Cabin crew also usually have plasters – these are recommended if you have rubbed your feet sore while walking between terminals.
Another service not everyone knows about is help with making a connection. Passengers who struggle to move quickly or who have a tight connecting flight can ask the crew for assistance in arranging an escort from airport staff. Although it is better to organise this in advance, flight attendants can still help during the flight.
In her videos, Rydell also mentions that painkillers can sometimes be provided on board, if the airline’s rules allow it. She urges passengers not to hesitate to approach the crew, even if the request seems unusual.
“We probably have something, some trick, medicine or other solution that can help you” — Sille Rydell
The flight attendant also spoke separately about feminine hygiene products. According to her, some airlines do have pads or tampons on board, but you need to ask a stewardess or steward for them. She debunked the common myth that such items are supposedly hidden in drawers in the toilet, and advised against looking for them yourself so as not to damage anything.
The list of available small items also includes hot water (for tea or your own snacks, such as instant noodles), sick bags, earplugs, extra water or a top-up in your own bottle, as well as wet wipes. Rydell stresses that the crew are generally ready to help if a passenger asks for support.
In another video, the flight attendant gives advice on what to wear for flights. She recommends avoiding flip-flops, as your feet can swell, the cabin can be cold, and if you need to move quickly it is easier in closed shoes. She also advises against tight jeans, shorts and crop tops, noting that it is better not to touch the aircraft seats with bare skin.
Instead, Rydell suggests choosing loose, comfortable clothing and having extra layers with you – a jumper or cardigan – so you can adapt to changes in temperature during the flight.