For avid travelers, finding the best deal on airfare can be a challenging feat. Airlines are notorious for their complex pricing models, and it often seems like you’re being charged more than necessary to reach your destination. However, there is a sneaky little trick in the travel industry that can save you some serious cash – it’s called skip lagging.
But what is skip lagging? Is it legal? And what are the pros and cons of using this tactic? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about skip lagging.
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What is Skip Lagging?
Skip lagging, also known as “hidden city ticketing”, involves booking a flight to a connecting city with the intention of getting off the plane at the layover destination instead of continuing the journey to the final destination. This is typically done to score a lower airfare. For example, let’s say you want to travel from New York to Los Angeles during the best time to visit Catalina Island. Instead of booking a direct flight that costs $500, you might find a connecting flight from New York to San Francisco that stops in Los Angeles for just $300. By booking the cheaper flight and getting off the plane in LA, you can save $200.
Pros and Cons of Skip Lagging
While skip lagging can be an enticing method to save on airfare, it’s crucial to weigh its advantages and disadvantages to make an informed decision.
Pros
One of the most significant advantages of skip lagging is the cost-saving. Air travel can be quite expensive, and any way to cut those costs can be very welcome. Skip lagging is a clever hack that allows travelers to reach their destination without breaking their bank account.
Another pro is flexibility. It allows you to prioritize your budget as opposed to sticking to a direct flight from start to finish. You can also add an extra destination in a layover city that you’re interested in exploring.
It’s a chance to have a longer layover and explore a city as you travel to your final destination or take a break before heading back on to a flight. Therefore, skip lagging allows you to explore a city or two that you’ve been curious about at a fraction of the cost.
Cons
However, skip lagging does come with risks. First of all, it can be challenging to forecast which flights will have a layover at your desired final destination, making this strategy sometimes unreliable.
The other disadvantage of skip lagging is that you always run the risk of missing out on an essential connection. A flight delay, a missed layover flight, or another unforeseen circumstance could leave you stranded in your layover destination without a ticket on your final destination.
Additionally, it is crucial to remember that airlines frown on the practice of skip lagging. Skiplagging is against the terms and conditions of most airlines. If you are caught, the airline usually cancels your ticket or ban you from using the airline services. You could also lose some of the airline benefits associated with loyalty programs and frequent flyer status if there is any indication that you are violating the airline’s regulations.
Is it Legal to Skip Lag?
There is nothing illegal about skip lagging, but it does go against airline policy. Some airlines have attempted to block websites like Skiplagged, which are specifically designed to help travelers optimize this trick to get the best prices.
The law permits passengers to book and use the ticket how they see fit. Legal actions can’t be taken against you just because you used the itinerary as booked.
However, as earlier noted, if you are caught by the airline, you may face flight cancellations and worst of all, they may deny you service in the future. According to the New York Post, American Airlines recently banned a North Carolina teen for three years after trying to use a skiplagging hack on a flight to New York City.
Additional FAQs
In the bustling world of travel hacks, skip lagging is a strategy that intrigues many while simultaneously sparking controversy in the airline industry.
Will airlines ban you for skiplagging?
Most airlines frown upon skiplagging, and there is a chance you may be banned from future service on the airline if caught.
Why do airlines hate skiplagging?
Airlines are in the business of making money, and any practice that doesn’t allow them to maximize their profits is viewed unfavorably. Skip lagging prevents airlines from getting the full fare they might have otherwise charged for a direct flight.
Are there alternatives to skiplagging?
If you’re looking for alternatives to skip lagging, there are a few options available. One is to book directly with the airline, compare fares on multiple sites, look for flight deals in off-peak seasons, and opt for economy class tickets. Additionally, you can sign up for loyalty programs and take advantage of rewards points.
Does skiplagging come with any security risks?
Skiplagging does not pose any additional security risks compared to regular air travel. All passengers are subject to the same security screening procedures regardless of your final destination.
Can I check-in luggage if I’m skiplagging?
No, because your checked luggage will arrive at the final destination. If you are staying in the layover city, you will want your luggage with you. Therefore, you must carry on your luggage with your personal belongings.
Conclusion
Skip lagging is an unconventional approach to saving money and is far from a perfect solution for budget air travel. However, with some caution, travelers who are looking for flight deals can take advantage of this hack to save money. Just remember that it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before using this travel hack, and it’s important to understand that airlines don’t support this practice. Therefore, if you decide to use it, be cautious and know the risks involved.
