How To Get Freebies from Airlines

Airlines may be lowering fares around the world, but they’re nickel-and-diming in other areas — like luggage, seat selection and in-flight food — in order to make up for the cost cuts. According to frequent travelers, here are a few ways to snag freebies from airlines.

Sign up for the rewards program. This is a no-brainer: Any time you take a flight with any airline, sign up for the loyalty program. As your miles rack up, take advantage of free checked bags, lounge access and free upgrades.

Ask and you shall receive. Some travelers might be afraid to “bother” the flight attendants, but their job is to make sure you’re comfortable, so ask for that extra water or extra snacks (if they’re free). Being polite and courteous to the staff can go a long way for these types of requests. If your flight is canceled or they need to bump you to another flight, you should be compensated with money or with miles, but ask for which you prefer.

Tweet about it. Airlines’ Twitter accounts have ‘round-the-clock customer service agents responding to tweets in the moment. If you have something to gripe about, fire up Twitter and mention the airline for a quick resolve, which may result in a reward in some way.