What is Skiplagging and is it Worth the Savings?

Everyone loves a deal, and skiplagging offers a way to significantly cut airfare costs.

“It’s not for the faint of heart, but it can save a lot,” says Sheldon Jacobson, a computer science professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, who specializes in AI, data science, and aviation security.

Skiplagging involves buying a ticket but only traveling partway through the itinerary. While not illegal, it’s against many airlines’ terms of service.

Skiplagging Basics

Also known as hidden-city or point-beyond ticketing, skiplagging is when you book a ticket but don’t travel to the final destination. For example, you might book a flight from Detroit to New York City with a layover in Washington D.C. If a direct flight to D.C. costs $204 but the flight to NYC with the layover is $148, you can save by skipping the final leg.

This strategy only works with one-way tickets, as airlines cancel the rest of your itinerary if you miss one leg. You also can’t check bags since you can’t retrieve them at the layover.

If caught, airlines may impose consequences. United Airlines, for instance, might:

– Permanently ban you or refuse to board you
– Bill you for the fare difference
– Delete miles, points, or credits from your frequent flyer account
– Take legal action

“Airlines don’t like this at all,” says Jen Ruiz, a travel writer. “It’s messing with their profits.” Jacobson adds that airlines’ yield management systems inadvertently create these opportunities. Airlines argue skiplagging poses security risks, but Jacobson disagrees, noting passengers aren’t checking bags. He also dismisses claims of unfairness, as the seat is paid for regardless.

The real issue, Jacobson believes, is that airlines want passengers to spend more on direct flights.

Is Skiplagging Worth It?

Skiplagged is a well-known site for finding hidden-city tickets, though you can find these flights directly on airline websites with enough effort.

The bigger question is whether skiplagging is worth the risk. Neither Jacobson nor Ruiz has used the practice. Jacobson hasn’t found a discount compelling enough to forgo checked bags or risk flight rerouting. Ruiz avoids the stress and potential penalties, noting, “It’s already stressful to travel. The last thing you need is to worry about being banned from an airline.”