In-N-Out Burger Freebies Military Appreciation Day Secret Menu Extras

Oct. 30, 2025, 7:33 p.m.

In-N-Out Burger, a beloved fast-food chain in the western United States, is known for its fresh ingredients, made-to-order menu items, and dedicated customer following. While the company doesn't typically offer traditional coupons or promotions, there are several ways for customers to enjoy free or discounted items. This article explores the various freebies and value options available at In-N-Out Burger, focusing on their annual military appreciation event and the secret menu extras that can be added to orders at no additional cost.

Military Appreciation Day Free Meal

In-N-Out Burger demonstrates its commitment to military personnel through an annual Veterans Day tribute. This special event provides a significant freebie opportunity for service members. According to the available information, the 2025 Veterans Day tribute is scheduled for November 11th, running from 10:30 am to 1 pm.

During this limited-time promotion, military personnel—including Veterans, Active-Duty personnel, Reserves, and National Guard members—can receive a free meal combo. The offer covers the restaurant's famous burgers, with all Animal Style options included. To redeem this offer, participants must present valid military identification or proof of service at the restaurant.

This promotion represents one of the most substantial free offerings available from In-N-Out Burger. The meal typically includes a burger, fries, and a drink, providing complete value to qualifying customers. The promotion operates on a first-come, first-served basis during the specified hours, and participation may vary by location.

Free Secret Menu Extras

While In-N-Out Burger doesn't advertise traditional coupons or discounts, the chain does offer several free extras through its secret menu. These additions allow customers to customize their orders without additional cost, effectively providing value beyond the standard menu items.

Available Free Toppings

Customers can request extra lettuce, tomato, and onion on any burger at no charge. These additional toppings can enhance the flavor profile and nutritional value of a standard order. The availability of these free extras demonstrates In-N-Out's commitment to customer satisfaction and customization.

Special Free Additions

Beyond standard toppings, In-N-Out offers several other free additions that can be requested:

Mustard Grilled Patty: A preparation method where the beef patty is grilled with mustard before cooking
Hot Peppers: Spicy additions that can enhance the flavor profile of a burger
Whole Grilled Onions: Complete onions grilled and added to the order

Special Spread and Hot Pepper Packets

Customers may also request Special Spread Packets or Hot Pepper Packets on the side of their order. These packets allow for additional customization and can be used to modify the flavor profile of the meal. The Special Spread is the same sauce used in the popular Animal Style burger, while the Hot Pepper Packets provide a spicy option for those who enjoy extra heat.

Ordering Free Extras

To request these free additions, customers should simply ask for them when placing their order. For items that are added to the burger itself, they should be specified during the ordering process. For packets or items to be added on the side, customers can request them when picking up their order. While these free extras are available at most locations, availability may vary slightly between restaurants.

Value Menu Options

In addition to free extras, In-N-Out Burger offers several menu items that provide exceptional value. While not technically free, these options offer significant portions or ingredients at reasonable price points, making them attractive to cost-conscious consumers.

Protein Style Burgers

The Protein Style option allows customers to swap the traditional bun for lettuce wraps. This modification not only provides a lower-carb alternative but also effectively reduces the cost of the meal by eliminating the bread component. The lettuce wrap maintains the integrity of the burger while offering a different textural experience.

Animal Style Modifications

Adding "Animal Style" to a burger or fries includes pickles, grilled onions, and extra spread for a small additional cost. While not free, this enhancement provides substantial flavor improvement for a minimal price increase. The Animal Style burger has become an iconic menu item for regular customers who appreciate the extra preparation and ingredients.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

The Grilled Cheese represents a value option for non-meat eaters or those seeking a lighter meal. This sandwich consists of cheese grilled between two slices of bread, making it significantly less expensive than a traditional burger while still providing a satisfying meal. For vegetarian customers or children with smaller appetites, this represents an excellent value proposition.

Kid-Friendly Options

While In-N-Out doesn't offer a formal kids meal combo, the restaurant provides several kid-friendly options that can be customized to suit younger palates. These include:

Plain cheeseburger
Hamburger without spread
Grilled cheese sandwich
Crispy fries

Parents appreciate the ability to customize orders for children, whether that means no onions, extra cheese, or bun-less options. The restaurant's commitment to fresh ingredients and simple preparation makes it a popular choice for families.

Seasonal and Limited-Time Offers

Beyond the regular free extras and value options, In-N-Out occasionally participates in special promotions. The Veterans Day free meal represents the most significant of these events. While the available data doesn't indicate other regular promotional periods, customers should stay informed about potential special offers through official channels.

Conclusion

In-N-Out Burger provides several avenues for customers to enjoy free or enhanced value items. The annual Veterans Day free meal stands as the most substantial offering, providing complete meals to military personnel at no cost. Throughout the year, customers can access various free extras through the secret menu, including additional toppings, special preparation methods, and flavor packets. While the company maintains a limited promotional approach compared to other fast-food chains, these value options and free additions demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction.

For military personnel, the Veterans Day promotion offers significant value, providing a complete meal during a specific time period each year. For regular customers, the secret menu extras allow for customization without additional cost, effectively enhancing the standard menu items. Combined with value options like Protein Style burgers and the Grilled Cheese sandwich, these offerings make In-N-Out an attractive choice for consumers seeking quality food with added benefits.