Skiplagging – what is it? And why is it particularly useful for Australians?
For Australian travellers, where many flights to global destinations include mandatory stopovers, the strategy of skiplagging—also known as “hidden-city” ticketing—has become increasingly relevant. It doesn’t matter how wealthy travellers are, everyone likes a bargain. And skiplagging applies to all airfare classes and airlines.
By booking flights with layovers instead of direct routes, savvy passengers can save hundreds of dollars.
For instance, a direct flight from New York to Orlando may cost $350, but a flight from New York to Dallas with a layover in Orlando could be as low as $170.
Travellers using the skiplagging method would simply disembark at the layover city—in this case, Orlando—instead of continuing to Dallas.
This practice is especially tempting for Australians who frequently book international flights requiring connections in cities like Singapore, Dubai, or Los Angeles.
Platforms like Skiplagged.com specialise in uncovering these hidden-city fares, often saving travelers up to 47% on airfare.
Why Skiplagging Works
Airlines use complex pricing algorithms that sometimes make connecting flights cheaper than direct routes. Hidden-city ticketing takes advantage of this pricing disparity.
By skipping the final leg of a journey, travelers can pocket significant savings.
Risks and Restrictions
While skiplagging isn’t illegal, it violates most airlines’ terms of service.
Airlines including Qantas, Emirates, and American Airlines have cracked down on the practice, with consequences ranging from canceled tickets and loyalty points being revoked to being billed for the unused leg of the journey.
Additionally, skiplagging works only for one-way flights and is unsuitable for travelers checking luggage, as bags are sent to the ticketed final destination.
Frequent use of this strategy can also raise red flags with airlines, potentially leading to bans or penalties.
A Cost-Saving Tool, but Not Without Risks
For budget-conscious Australians, skiplagging offers a way to mitigate the high cost of long-haul flights.
However, it requires careful planning, including traveling light and avoiding frequent flyer accounts during booking.
Despite the risks, platforms like Skiplagged continue to thrive, enabling travelers to explore the world without breaking the bank.
If used strategically and sparingly, this controversial hack could help Australians save on their next international adventure.
Considering using this strategy? Keep informed about airline policies and weigh the savings against potential consequences to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.
