Hidden-city ticketing means booking a flight that connects in the city you actually want, then skipping the final leg because the longer itinerary was cheaper.
Why we don't recommend it
- It breaks most airlines' contracts of carriage.
- Airlines cancel the rest of your itinerary, including your return, once you miss a segment.
- Checked bags go to the final destination, so you must travel carry-on only, and even carry-ons can get gate-checked.
- Airlines have closed frequent-flyer accounts and asked for the fare difference.
- If the airline reroutes you through a different hub, the plan fails.
Legal ways to get a similar saving
- Check nearby airports and a positioning flight.
- Price two one-ways and open-jaw trips.
- Use flexible dates and price alerts.