The Ins and Outs of Skiplagging: What You Need to Know
Are you always on the lookout for travel hacks to save some bucks on your flights? Well, you might have come across a term called "skiplagging" or "hidden city ticketing." It sounds intriguing, right? But before you jump on the skiplagging bandwagon, let's dive into the details and understand what it's all about.
What is Skiplagging?
Skiplagging is a travel technique where savvy travelers book flights with layovers in cities they want to visit, only to intentionally skip the second leg of their journey. The goal is to take advantage of pricing anomalies and potentially secure cheaper tickets.
No Guarantee of Savings:
While skiplagging may seem like a golden opportunity to cut costs, it's important to note that it doesn't guarantee savings in every situation. The amount you can save depends on various factors, such as your departure point and final destination. Adding complexity or stops to your journey starting from another city doesn't always result in a cheaper fare.
Travel Limitations:
Before you get excited about skiplagging, consider its limitations. One major constraint is the issue of luggage. If you have checked bags, they will be tagged to the final destination of the second leg of your journey. Therefore, skiplagging works best for those traveling with only carry-on luggage.
Risks Involved:
Skiplagging isn't all smooth sailing. There are serious risks that travelers should be aware of before attempting it. One major risk is the potential loss of accumulated frequent flyer mileage, elite status, and membership with the airline. In some cases, airlines might even ban you outright, leaving you grounded.
Airlines Fight Back:
Airlines have caught on to skiplagging and are taking action to combat the practice. They are monitoring skiplaggers and may pursue legal action against those who engage in this travel hack. However, it's worth noting that not all attempts to crack down on skiplagging have been successful. For instance, Lufthansa's attempt to sue a skiplagging passenger was dismissed by a court in Germany.
The Industry Response:
Major airlines, including American Airlines and United Airlines, are actively addressing the issue. American Airlines sent a memo to its employees stating their intention to monitor skiplagging. United Airlines, along with travel site Orbitz, previously attempted to sue the CEO of Skiplagged, a popular travel site facilitating hidden city ticketing. However, the case was dismissed due to jurisdictional limitations.
Skiplagging may sound like a tempting way to score cheaper flights and visit additional destinations. However, it's crucial to consider the potential risks and limitations before trying this travel hack. Remember, airlines are catching on and taking measures to protect their interests. If you decide to embark on a skiplagging adventure, do so with caution and be prepared for the consequences that may arise.
Safe travels!
