Ultimate Travel Hack: How to Save Money on Flights with this Hidden Trick
Airlines may not be fans of “skiplagging,” but travelers who use it to save money on flights surely are. The practice involves buying a connecting flight, with no intention of taking the second leg of the journey. Flyers do this when they find a connecting flight — that stops at their intended destination — that’s cheaper than flying direct. Skiplagged.com, a website that helps travelers find these flights, said its customers saved around $180 on average, which collectively amounted to $54 million in the past year alone.
Skiplagging Risks and Rewards
However, skiplagging, or “hidden city ticketing,” is prohibited by most airlines. Violators can have their tickets canceled, be prevented from flying, or the airline may “not refund an otherwise refundable ticket,” it states. Despite these risks, Aktarer Zaman, the founder of Skiplagged.com, believes that skiplagging will not get a flyer banned from an airline for life. He emphasizes the importance of not abusing this money-saving technique and advises travelers to vary the carriers they fly to avoid potential issues.
Airline Lawsuits and Clearer Guidance
Skiplagged has faced legal challenges from major airlines like American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. However, despite these lawsuits, Zaman remains committed to helping travelers save money. After the recent trial with American Airlines, Skiplagged released clearer guidance on how to safely skiplag, urging people to use this technique sparingly and avoid associating their frequent flyer accounts with their bookings.
Travel Tips and Customer Experiences
More than 340 Skiplagged.com customers in the past year were required to pay a higher fare for a direct journey, and airlines may revoke passengers’ frequent flyer points for skiplagging. The website advises travelers to fly with a small bag that fits under their seat, travel with their passport for international flights, and ensure they have the necessary visas. Despite potential issues, only 0.3% of Skiplagged’s customers encounter problems, according to the company’s data.
In conclusion, skiplagging can be a money-saving travel hack if done correctly. While there are risks involved, following the guidance provided by Skiplagged can help travelers navigate this technique effectively. As Aktarer Zaman continues to fight legal battles with airlines, his commitment to helping people save money remains unwavering. Remember, whether skiplagging makes sense for you depends on your individual circumstances and travel needs.