Travellers increasingly embrace ‘naked flying’ to dodge baggage fees: would you try it?

‘Naked flying’ is gaining traction among young travellers as a way to dodge often excessive baggage fees charged by airlines. The trend involves passengers boarding planes with little to no luggage, carrying only their phone and wallet. Some travellers tuck clothing into pockets or mail their belongings ahead to their destination to save money.

According to a Send My Bag survey of 1,000 adults, 48% believe airlines intentionally profit from complex baggage policies. The poll found that 37% of respondents paid at least 200 Australian dollars in overweight luggage fees over the past year, while nearly a third wore multiple layers of clothing to avoid additional charges.

Naked flying: Being strategic can lead to big savings

Rachel Kelly, a 28-year-old teacher, highlighted the cost-saving potential of the practice. When moving from Ireland to Australia, she avoided a AUD 1,000 baggage fee by mailing her luggage and saving AUD 600 in the process.

“I don’t think it’s fair to slap people with huge fines for baggage such as carry-on when they are already at the airport. I understand it’s fair to charge for a checked-in bag, but the prices are absolutely extortionate; it’s really not worth it,” she said.

Kelly uses the ‘naked flying’ method on other flights too. She hides her bag under her coat or wears up to seven sweaters to sidestep overweight fees, according to the Daily Mail. Although she admits feeling nervous and scared of getting caught, she usually only takes out her belongings after boarding.