Let’s face it: TikTok breeds some idiotic challenges. From silly eating challenges to tackling a lengthy flight without entertainment, social media can bring the worst out of people. However, a silly challenge can sometimes save money and force you to travel differently. It’s the impetus that has some plane passengers “flying naked.” 

‘Flying naked’ doesn’t mean what you think, but it could be your ticket to a memorable trip

Fortunately, “flying naked” doesn’t mean that the airplane passenger in the seat next to you will be sans clothing. I know, cue the sigh of relief. The term refers to a travel trend wherein passengers ditch the heavy, cumbersome rolling luggage. Instead, plane passengers are traveling with whatever is in their pockets or a small bag.

It sounds a little crazy, right? Well, some of these travelers might be on to something. The trend forces travelers to focus on the trip. And for you savvy shoppers out there, landing somewhere new without too many clothes could be your ticket to spend some money on something of a new wardrobe. Of course, if you want to keep your purchases, you’ll need to get a bag for the return trip. 

Adventurousness and an impending shopping spree aside, “flying naked” has a financial and time-saving benefit. Airlines charge hefty fees for checked luggage. Worse yet, if your bag sneaks past the overweight threshold (typically 50 lbs), you’re looking at another fee or a mandate to redistribute your belongings before the eyes of every weary traveler in the terminal. Frankly, some airlines compensate their gate agents for forcing travelers to check bags. Not cool. 

On the other hand, if you show up with a small bag or nothing at all, you don’t have to pay extra to check a bag. You don’t have to argue with other passengers to secure overhead compartment space for your selfishly large rolling luggage, either. Better yet, you can sail right past the baggage drop line and into a security line. Happy days, indeed.

I recently conducted a motorcycle test of the Indian Scout 101 that required a couple of flights. I traveled with my full-face helmet and little else. Consequently, slipping through Atlanta’s impossibly busy airport was that much easier without the encumbrance of luggage. Perhaps we can all benefit from “flying naked.” Just not in the literal sense.