AIRLINE passengers could bag a free flight, hotel stay and even spending money thanks to this viral travel hack.
When a flight is overbooked, airlines often turn to passengers and offer them massive payouts – and some are cashing in big time.
TikTokers are sharing a travel hack to cash in when airlines overbook flights[/caption]
Delta ramped up its compensation to a jaw-dropping $10,000 for volunteers giving up their seats on overbooked flights[/caption]
Under ‘overbooking’ laws, travellers who volunteer to give up their seat when a flight is full can be rewarded with cash, meal vouchers, overnight accommodation, and a spot on the next available plane – no extra cost required.
It’s all part of a legal passenger rights scheme, and those in the know are using it to travel for free by taking one for the team.
One viral account reports that at least 13 volunteers walked away with $2,000–$4,000 each for taking a later flight.
That’s right—by simply “taking one for the team” and giving up your seat, you could end up traveling the same route for free… and possibly profiting hundreds or even thousands.
Airlines are so desperate to free up space that they’re offering unparalleled compensation to passengers willing to delay their trip.
Which airlines?
Delta ramped up its compensation to a jaw-dropping $10,000 for volunteers giving up their seats on overbooked flights.
American Airlines changed its rules to ban booting off passengers who’ve already boarded, while United brought in a policy making sure crew check in at least an hour before take-off – to avoid turfing off paying customers.
Even the US Department of Transportation stepped in, tightening rules in 2021 to stop airlines from bumping passengers who checked in on time – and making it crystal clear that compensation rules are a floor, not a ceiling.
So next time they ask for volunteers at the gate, ask yourself… why not cash in?
What do experts say?
Travel expert Henderson reckons these payouts are just the latest way passengers are hitting back at airline giants, especially as they feel more squeezed than ever.
“Compensation for overbooked flights is one of the few ways travellers can try to level the playing field,” he said.
“But it’s getting harder to win the battle against the airlines. They know the game too — and they’re playing to protect their profits.”
With cramped seats, dodgy meals and soaring ticket prices, it’s no wonder fed-up flyers are fighting back.
While carriers try to win passengers over with juicier perks, like free upgrades, bigger vouchers, and even deals with big-name chains like Shake Shack, travellers are turning to social media to share sneaky hacks.
From gaming overbooking rules to volunteering at just the right moment, these viral tips are helping savvy passengers bag free flights, posh hotels, and serious cash — all while getting one over on airlines they feel are ripping them off.
But with so many jumping on the trend and sharing hacks on TikTok, some worry airlines may soon fight back.
What to do if you luggage is lost, delayed, or damaged
IT is an awful experience when your baggage does not appear on the carousel.
However, travelers can take steps to get their bags back.
What if baggage is delayed?
If your bag doesn’t show up at your destination, make sure to speak to the nearest airline representative.
Airlines have a system that tracks where bags are and can see whether luggage has ever left an airport.
After getting as much information as possible from the representative, passengers can file a claim.
Once the bag is located, airlines will either deliver it straight to a flier’s door or send it to the nearest airport.
What if baggage is lost?
Fliers should stay in close contact with airlines throughout the search for their bags.
Sometimes, airlines will tell lucky passengers their bags are gone for good.
Most airlines will declare a bag lost between five and fourteen days after the flight, but this can vary.
Airlines are responsible for compensating travelers for lost bags’ contents as long as it doesn’t surpass maximum liability limits.
Airlines must also reimburse any fees that fliers paid out for a bag to be transported if it was found.
What if a bag is damaged?
Airlines are also required to pay back customers for bags’ contents that were damaged during flight.
However, the airline won’t take responsibility for items that were destroyed because the luggage was improperly packed.
Most airlines also won’t reimburse cash, electronics, fragile items, and perishables.
Anyone who has a bag damaged during flight should file a claim and discuss whether they can get a refund.
