What do airlines do if you skiplag?

Skiplagging: A Thrifty Travel Tactic with a Catch

In the realm of budget-conscious travel, skiplagging has emerged as a tantalizing strategy. This clever maneuver involves booking a flight with a layover, but disembarking at the layover city instead of continuing to the final destination. While skiplagging can lead to substantial savings, it’s essential to be aware of potential consequences.

The Art of Skiplagging

Skiplagging hinges on the fact that airlines often price flights differently based on the destination. By booking a flight to a layover city and then purchasing a separate ticket to the final destination, travelers can potentially save hundreds of dollars. However, skiplagging is inherently frowned upon by airlines.

Consequences to Consider

1. Flight Cancellations: Airlines reserve the right to cancel your flight if they discover skiplagging. This can leave you stranded with no reimbursement.

2. Future Travel Restrictions: Repeated skiplagging attempts may lead to airlines placing you on a blacklist, restricting your future bookings.

3. Baggage Complications: Checked bags are often tagged to the final destination. If you skiplag, you risk losing your luggage or incurring additional fees.

Alternatives to Skiplagging

While skiplagging can be tempting, there are safer alternatives to save on travel expenses:

1. Hidden City Ticketing: Similar to skiplagging, this involves booking a flight to a destination with a layover and then continuing to your preferred destination on a separate ticket. However, it’s less risky because you don’t skip any portions of the original flight.

2. Discount Airlines: Budget airlines offer significantly lower fares than traditional carriers. While they may have fewer amenities, they can still get you to your destination for a fraction of the cost.

3. Round-Trip Tickets: Sometimes, round-trip tickets are cheaper than one-way tickets, even if you only plan to use one leg of the journey.

Conclusion

Skiplagging can be a risky tactic to save money on airfare. While it may yield short-term savings, it’s crucial to weigh the potential consequences of flight cancellations and future travel restrictions. Alternatives such as hidden city ticketing and budget airlines provide safer and more ethical options for budget-conscious travelers.