Planning a trip can be exhilarating, but the rising flight prices can quickly dampen your excitement. The cost of travel has significantly increased with the surge in travel demand as people start taking trips they had reserved during the pandemic. To save some cash, many travelers resort to various hacks, one of which is skiplagging.
Skiplagging, also known as “hidden city ticketing,” is a clever tactic employed by some savvy travelers to cut down on airfare costs. It involves booking a flight with a layover in the desired destination and intentionally not taking the second leg of the journey. It may sound smart in theory, like saving money while still getting a direct flight, but there are several factors to consider before attempting this approach. Experts shed light on why skiplagging may not be the best idea.
First and foremost, skiplagging violates airline policies and can result in being banned by the airline. According to Anton Radchenko, an aviation law expert and the founder of AirAdvisor, if you carefully read the terms and conditions of any airline policy, you’ll realize that skiplagging is technically a breach of the airline’s “contract of carriage.” This contract outlines the rights, liabilities, and duties of both the airline and passengers. In fact, in 2019, Lufthansa Airlines sued a passenger who didn’t complete the last leg of their journey and sought compensation. Airlines have the authority to ban travelers who engage in skiplagging as it is a violation of the contract, putting passengers at risk.
Moreover, skiplagging could invalidate any travel insurance you may have purchased. Radchenko explains that most insurance companies only cover circumstances that are beyond a passenger’s control, such as flight delays, cancellations, or lost baggage. If a passenger voluntarily misses a leg of their flight, the insurance may not cover any resulting costs because it is a consequence of their own actions and not an unforeseen event. Additionally, if there is an unexpected situation or a medical emergency during the layover, you might not be covered by insurance since you didn’t officially book a ticket to that location.
Another downside to skiplagging is the potential complications with luggage and schedules. As Sean Lau, founder of the travel blog LivingOutLau, points out, any checked luggage will usually be sent to the final destination on the ticket, causing significant inconvenience. Even if you have a carry-on, there’s still a possibility of being forced to gate check it to your final destination, which only becomes apparent when you board the flight. Furthermore, schedule complications and forced cancellations are likely, which may result in additional expenses.
Instead of resorting to skiplagging, there are alternative ways to save on travel expenses. One approach is to consider secondary airports that are slightly further away from your intended destination. These airports often offer more attractive fares, and even with the additional travel time, the overall cost can still be a bargain. This approach not only saves money but also allows you to explore areas you might have otherwise missed. Booking flights early is another effective way to secure the best deals since prices tend to rise closer to the departure date. Utilizing flight search engines and setting price alerts can help you monitor price fluctuations and identify the most opportune time to book. Flexibility with travel dates, opting for budget airlines if feasible, and seeking assistance from professional travel agencies are all viable strategies to maximize savings.
While skiplagging may seem like a money-saving hack, it’s important to weigh the risks and potential limitations before attempting it. By exploring alternative cost-saving methods and staying informed about flight prices and options, travelers can make smart decisions that ensure a pleasant and budget-friendly trip.
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