Skiplagging is a travel hacking method that helps to save you money while traveling but it's also contentious. Skiplagging is a new term that has been gaining traction in the travel world over the past few years. But what exactly is Skiplagging? And why is it considered to be controversial?
What is Skiplagging?
Skiplag is a kind of travel hacking that can help you save money on airfare. It means booking a flight with a layover in your desired destination, but instead of boarding the second plane, you simply deplane and stay there.
While this may sound like a great way to save money, not everyone agrees with it. Many believe that skiplagging is unethical because it disrupts airlines' business models, which rely on revenue from connecting flights. When people skiplag, they are essentially depriving the airline of this revenue.
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How Does Skiplagging Work?
Skiplagging is the practice of booking an itinerary where the stopover is the true and intended destination of the traveler. Using our 'point 1 to point 2' phrasing, a passenger would book a ticket that takes them from point 1 to point 3, with a stopover at point 2. The passenger's actual destination is point 2 and leaves the airport at this layover, leaving their seat empty on the 2-to-3 portion of the journey.
Why is Skiplagging Controversial?
Skiplagging is also known as hidden-city ticketing and it is when a passenger books a flight with a layover in their desired destination but does not take the second leg of the journey. This may save you money since airlines frequently charge for flights based on the longest route, even if you have no desire to travel that last mile.
However, since it is in opposition to airline regulations, skiplagging has generated a lot of debate. Additionally, if you do not arrive on the plane destined for your layover city to pick up your luggage, it will most likely not reach your final destination. While skiplagging may save you money, it's crucial to consider the risks before purchasing a hidden-city ticket.
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The Pros and Cons of Skiplagging
If you do decide to skiplag, be sure you understand the risks before booking your ticket. Skiplagging can be a great way to save money on airfare, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making your decision.
While skiplagging can help you save money on your airfare, it has some disadvantages. It's technically illegal, so if you're discovered, you risk being banned from flying with that airline in the future.
Additionally, skiplagging can be a major problem for airlines since it throws their carefully planned itineraries off. As a result, certain airlines have filed legal action against travelers using skiplagging techniques to prevent them from disrupting travel.
Is skiplagging worth the risk? That's a personal decision. However, if you do decide to give it a go, be sure to conduct your study and understand the potential drawbacks.
Conclusion
Skiplagging is a controversial travel hack that may save you money on airfare, but it comes with its risks. The main hazard is that if your airline finds out what you're doing, you could be refused transport or subjected to other penalties. However, if you are willing to face the risks, skiplagging can be a wonderful method to save money on your next flight.
