The Secret to Saving Big on Flights
Are you tired of breaking the bank on airfare? You’re not alone. Savvy travelers have been using a clever trick to save hundreds on flights, and it’s all about thinking outside the box – or rather, the flight route.
The Art of Skiplagging
Skiplagging, also known as “hidden city ticketing,” involves booking a connecting flight with no intention of taking the second leg of the journey. This tactic can result in significant savings, especially when flying to popular destinations. The concept is simple: if you find a connecting flight that stops at your intended destination and is cheaper than flying direct, why not take advantage of it?
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Skiplagged.com, a website that helps travelers find these hidden gems, reports that its customers saved an average of $180 per flight, totaling $54 million in the past year alone. That’s a staggering amount of money saved, and it’s no wonder airlines are taking notice.
The Risks Involved
But before you start skiplagging like a pro, it’s essential to understand the risks involved. Most airlines prohibit this practice, and violators can face consequences such as ticket cancellations, being prevented from flying, or even having their frequent flyer points revoked. However, Aktarer Zaman, founder of Skiplagged.com, believes that the risks are minimal and that airlines are more focused on generating revenue than punishing skiplaggers.
Why Connecting Flights Can Be Cheaper
So, why do connecting flights sometimes cost less than flying direct? It all comes down to supply and demand. Popular routes like London to New York are often priced higher due to demand, creating opportunities for skiplaggers to find cheaper flights with layovers. This phenomenon is not unique to Skiplagged.com; travelers can also find these deals through travel agents or by searching for flights themselves.
The Battle Between Skiplagged and Airlines
Skiplagged.com has faced its fair share of challenges, including lawsuits from major airlines like American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. However, the website has prevailed, with most suits being dismissed or settled out of court. In fact, Skiplagged.com was ordered to pay American Airlines $9.4 million for copyright infringement, but Zaman views this as a victory, stating that it sets a precedent for his company to continue operating.
Safe Skiplagging Practices
To minimize the risks associated with skiplagging, Skiplagged.com advises travelers to fly sparingly, vary their carriers, and avoid associating their frequent flyer accounts with their bookings. Additionally, the website only books one-way tickets to prevent return journeys from being canceled. Travelers should also ensure they have the necessary visas and travel documents, and pack light to avoid checked bag issues.
The Success Rate
Despite the potential risks, Skiplagged.com reports a success rate of 99.7%, with only 0.3% of customers experiencing issues. This is a testament to the website’s effectiveness in helping travelers save money on flights.
The Future of Skiplagging
As the battle between Skiplagged.com and airlines continues, one thing is clear: travelers will always be looking for ways to save money on flights. With Skiplagged.com leading the charge, it’s likely that skiplagging will become a more mainstream practice, forcing airlines to reevaluate their pricing strategies. Until then, savvy travelers will continue to take advantage of this clever trick to save big on flights.
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