Skiplagging: Travel Hack or Controversial Cheat?

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer tells a traveler to look into a camera using facial recognition technology to screen passengers entering the United States on Feb. 27, 2018 at Miami International Airport. Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

By Jade Alexander and Just Ben

March 24, 2025 at 7:49 am EDT

Is skiplagging a clever loophole or a dishonest travel tactic? It depends on who you ask. This practice — where travelers book flights with layovers and skip the final leg to save money — has gained serious attention, especially in South Florida.

A recent analysis by Locals Insider revealed that Miami is a hot spot for skiplagging, ranking second only to Atlanta. With over 2,000 monthly Google searches per 100,000 residents, Miami travelers are clearly intrigued by this cost-cutting method.

Major airline hubs dominate the top five cities where skiplagging is most popular, including Orlando, Charlotte, and Minneapolis. Love it or hate it, this controversial travel trick is making waves — and airlines are paying attention.

Would you try it, or is it crossing the line? Let us know your thoughts.

Jade Alexander

If you’re a native of South Florida, you know Jade from her many years on local radio as a Jock and on television as both an Entertainment Reporter and News Anchor. This Miami girl has hosted some pretty memorable shows, events, and parties in this town. She’s a hugger, the ultimate animal lover, and has never met a stranger.