Skiplagging: The Money-Saving Flight Hack Airlines Disapprove Of
Traveling can be an expensive endeavor, especially when it comes to booking flights. However, there is a little-known trick that savvy travelers have been using to save money on airfare. It’s called skiplagging, and while it can be a great way to cut costs, it’s not without controversy. In fact, airlines really don’t like it.
What is Skiplagging?
Skiplagging, also known as hidden city ticketing, is a method of booking flights with the intention of not taking the final leg of the journey. This strategy involves finding a flight with a layover in the desired destination and simply disembarking at that point, instead of continuing on to the final destination.
For example, let’s say you want to fly from New York to Miami. You might find a flight from New York to Orlando with a layover in Miami. Instead of taking the connecting flight to Orlando, you would simply exit the airport in Miami. This can often result in significant savings, as flights with layovers are sometimes cheaper than direct flights to the same destination.
The Controversy
While skiplagging may seem like a clever way to save money, it is important to note that airlines strongly discourage this practice. In fact, they have taken legal action against websites that facilitate skiplagging, arguing that it violates their terms and conditions.
One of the main reasons airlines disapprove of skiplagging is that it disrupts their revenue management systems. Airlines carefully calculate pricing based on demand and route popularity. When passengers skip the final leg of their journey, it can throw off these calculations and potentially result in lost revenue for the airline.
Additionally, skiplagging can have other unintended consequences. For example, if you have checked luggage, it will likely be sent to the final destination, leaving you without your belongings. Furthermore, if you are a frequent flyer with status or miles, skiplagging could jeopardize your benefits or even result in the termination of your loyalty program membership.
Is Skiplagging Legal?
The legality of skiplagging is a gray area. While it is not explicitly illegal, it does violate the terms and conditions set by most airlines. In some cases, airlines have taken legal action against passengers who engage in skiplagging, seeking compensation for the lost revenue.
It is worth noting that skiplagging is more common on one-way flights or when travelers do not have checked luggage. It is also important to mention that skiplagging is not recommended for frequent flyers or those with loyalty program memberships, as it can have negative consequences on their benefits.
Alternatives to Skiplagging
If you are looking to save money on airfare but want to avoid the controversy of skiplagging, there are other strategies you can consider:
- Be flexible with your travel dates and destinations. Sometimes, flying on less popular days or to less popular airports can result in significant savings.
- Use flight comparison websites to find the best deals. These platforms aggregate prices from multiple airlines, allowing you to easily compare and find the most affordable options.
- Consider booking flights and accommodation as part of a package. Many travel agencies offer discounted rates when you book both together.
- Sign up for airline newsletters and follow them on social media. Airlines often announce special promotions and discounts exclusively to their subscribers and followers.
By exploring these alternatives, you can still find ways to save money on airfare without resorting to skiplagging.
The Final Verdict
Skiplagging may be a tempting money-saving flight hack, but it is important to understand the potential consequences and the disapproval of airlines. While it is not explicitly illegal, it is a practice that airlines strongly discourage and have taken legal action against. If you do choose to engage in skiplagging, be aware of the risks and consider the alternatives available to you.
Ultimately, the decision is yours to make. Just remember to weigh the potential savings against the potential drawbacks and make an informed choice that aligns with your travel preferences and priorities.