Airports aren’t just about expensive coffee and long queues—they’re also full of hidden freebies…
From travel essentials to unexpected treats, airports offer much more than just flights and shops. Travel operator Ski Vertigo and a veteran pilot revealed ten free items you may not know you could get at airports, perfect for making your journey smoother and saving a bit of cash if you’re off for a winter warmer abroad…
A pilot, commented on the findings:
“Navigating airports can be less stressful and more budget-friendly if you know where to look for useful services and hidden perks. A bit of planning and awareness can help you stay refreshed and avoid unnecessary expenses during your journey.
“Many airport apps offer time-limited discounts on food, shopping, and parking—great for saving money. If you face a long layover or need to freshen up, check if the airport provides free showers, such as at Gatwick or Manchester. Bringing a small toiletry kit lets you make the most of these services without splurging on airport amenities. For unexpected needs, visit the information desk—they sometimes provide free basics like painkillers or sanitary products, helping you stay comfortable without extra costs.”
1. Free Magazines and Newspapers
Many airports provide complimentary magazines, newspapers, or travel guides at gates, lounges, and waiting areas. You’ll often find both local and international editions to keep you entertained during layovers. Heathrow, for instance, offers digital kiosks where you can download publications free of charge via airport Wi-Fi.
2. Free Snacks and Drinks
Some airports or airlines run promotional events, offering small treats such as cookies, coffee, or local snacks. Even without a promotion, airport lounges often provide free tea, coffee, or water to travellers outside of their exclusive areas. Keep an eye out at gates—staff sometimes bring snacks during delays to keep passengers comfortable.
3. Free Eye Masks and Earplugs
Airports stock travel kits for passengers affected by delays, especially overnight disruptions. These kits can include eye masks, earplugs, socks, and blankets, distributed by airline desks or information counters. It’s worth asking about them, especially on long-haul routes.
4. Free Hand Sanitiser and Masks
With health precautions still in place, free sanitising stations with gels and wipes are available throughout terminals. Some airports also offer masks near security or health checkpoints, which can be useful if you run out during your journey.
5. Free Travel Accessories
During promotions, duty-free shops or brand kiosks hand out sample-sized perfumes, lotions, or even neck pillows to attract customers. Keep an eye out for new product launches, as these often come with giveaways. Airport lounges may also offer complimentary eye drops, tissues, or toothbrushes.
6. Free Pens and Stationery
Need to fill out immigration or customs forms? Airport service desks and airline counters often provide pens, which are free to take and useful for other forms or journaling during your trip. Some airports even offer notepads or sticky notes.
7. Free Souvenirs
Airports celebrate special occasions or holidays by giving out free souvenirs like pins, stickers, or keepsakes. In family areas, children may receive DIY kits such as colouring books or puzzles. Tourist information centres sometimes offer free postcards, pins, or keyrings if you participate in short activities.
8. Free Toiletries in Bathrooms
In premium terminals such as those at Singapore Changi or Dubai Airport, complimentary toiletries like lotion, mouthwash, perfume testers, and shaving kits are available in public bathrooms. Lounges also stock soap bars, cotton swabs, and dental kits, which you can often take if needed.
9. Free Chocolate Samples
Duty-free shops frequently offer chocolate or candy samples to promote new products. Some stores also provide liqueur tastings, adding a bit of fun to your layover. In many European airports, these samples are common in luxury confectionery stores.
10. Free Postcards
Tourism desks and promotional stalls often have free postcards or brochures to encourage exploration of the local area. In airports like those in Japan or the Netherlands, you can even send postcards directly from the terminal, with postage covered—making it a thoughtful freebie.
