What is naked flying, the trend helping travellers catch flights without excess baggage?

Driven by the ambition to avoid exorbitant charges posed by airline companies to allow luggage extensions, travelers are considering the need for heavy luggage and multiple cabin bags. (Source: Canva)

Why the trend is taking off 

Hari Ganapathy, co-founder of Pickyourtrail, said, “The idea isn’t just about packing light—it’s about not packing at all. Think of it as boarding a bus to the next stop.”

The trend is gaining traction, especially among younger travellers, as a response to rising airline fees for extra luggage. By travelling empty-handed, adventurers avoid packing stress, skip check-in lines, and eliminate baggage claim waits.

Although the practice is still niche in India, Ganapathy said that its growing popularity in the United States of America. “If not completely ‘naked,’ the idea of ‘Smart Pack, Smart Travel’—packing only essentials—will likely gain momentum as people prioritise spontaneity during vacations,” he said.

Cultural immersion and industry impact

Flying naked also encourages cultural immersion. Travellers can shop locally for clothing or accessories, embracing the region’s unique styles. “With more people opting for experiential vacations, this trend could resonate with Indian travellers, too,” Ganapathy said.

With more travellers choosing to go baggage-free, the travel industry could also take a hit, reducing the costs associated with flights and baggage add-ons. “The spending budget of a traveller at destinations will see an uptick, or the idea of rentals during vacations will become more popular,” said Ganapathy.

However, travelling may never have a one-size-fits-all solution. While some travellers may prefer traveling with minimal baggage, others prefer to be prepared for every occasion. “Every traveler should explore destinations in ways that make them most comfortable, whether that means a single backpack or multiple suitcases. After all, the best journeys are the ones where you can truly be yourself,” said Ganapathy.