Blanket Pack (or Comfort Kit) on American Airlines

American Airlines was one of the first airlines to charge for a pillow and blanket. One year later, the charge remains and can be considered permanent.

On an American flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Honolulu I decided to purchase a blanket pack to see what you get for eight dollars. The pack includes a fleece blanket made of 100% polyester and an inflatable neck pillow in a clear zipper case. The case could be used for toiletries as noted on the pack's tag which calls the combo a comfort kit. With careful folding of each item, it's possible to repack the two items back into the case. A coupon for $10 off a $30 purchase at Bed Bath & Beyond is included.

The blanket is surprisingly soft and unfolds to the the standard size of blankets that were once free in the coach cabin. As for the pillow I much prefer to have a regular pillow for my back rather than the one for my neck. So now I have both for future flights but they are also two more things to pack.

The comfort kits are sold in the coach cabin of domestic flights over two hours and on some international flights. The latter includes flights to and from Canada, Mexico, Hawaii, the Caribbean and Central America. The blankets and pillows remain complimentary in premium-class cabins and all cabins for other international flights. Remember the cabins are cashless so keep a credit card handy. The flight attendants can print a receipt if you need one.

JetBlue and US airways also charge for a blanket-and-pillow set. They both charge $7 but US Airways includes eye shades and earplugs.