In the quest for cheap flights, many travelers turn to various online travel agencies hoping to find the best deals. One such company that has garnered significant attention is Kiwi.com, previously known as Skypicker. Despite its promise of affordable airfare and convenient booking, a multitude of reviews from users across different platforms, particularly on Reddit, paint a rather concerning picture. This article aims to provide a thorough warning about Kiwi.com, drawing from real customer experiences to highlight the potential pitfalls of using their services.
Kiwi.com markets itself as a gateway to cheap flights and budget travel. With keywords like "kiwi flights," "kiwi cheap flights," and "flights to anywhere," it's no wonder that budget-conscious travelers might be tempted to use their services. The platform offers an appealing premise: the ability to book cheap flights to virtually any destination. However, the reality often falls short of these promises.
One of the most frequent complaints from users revolves around the reliability of Kiwi.com's booking process. Many users report that the attractive prices they see initially often change dramatically by the time they reach the payment stage. This bait-and-switch tactic leaves customers feeling deceived and frustrated. Additionally, there are numerous accounts of bookings being canceled without proper notification, leaving travelers stranded and scrambling to make last-minute arrangements.
Customer service is a critical aspect of any travel agency, and it is here that Kiwi.com seems to falter the most. Users consistently describe their experiences with Kiwi customer service as abysmal.
Common issues include:
Many customers report that getting a response from Kiwi.com is an arduous task. Emails go unanswered, and calls to the Kiwi customer service number are often met with long wait times or no resolution at all.
When customers do manage to get through, the support they receive is frequently unhelpful. Representatives often provide vague answers, avoid addressing the issue directly, or simply fail to offer any real assistance.
One of the most alarming complaints is the difficulty in obtaining refunds. Many travelers have shared stories of canceled flights for which they never received compensation, despite repeated attempts to contact Kiwi.com and demand their money back.
While the promise of “cheap flights to anywhere” is enticing, the hidden costs associated with Kiwi.com can quickly negate any savings. Customers often find themselves facing unexpected fees, whether for baggage, seat selection, or even basic services that should be included in the ticket price. Furthermore, the lack of clear communication about these additional charges only adds to the frustration.
Travelers have also raised concerns about the safety and legitimacy of the flights booked through Kiwi.com. There are reports of tickets being issued for non-existent flights or airlines that do not operate in certain regions. For instance, users booking flights to or from Manila have found themselves questioning, “Is Manila safe?” due to the dubious nature of the itineraries provided.
Given the overwhelming number of negative reviews and the consistency of the complaints, it’s fair to question, “Is Kiwi.com legit?” While the company is indeed a real entity, the legitimacy of its services is highly questionable. The risks associated with booking through Kiwi.com far outweigh the potential benefits of finding a cheap flight.
For those seeking affordable travel options without the associated risks, consider the following tips:
Whenever possible, book directly with airlines. This not only ensures that you are dealing with a legitimate company but also provides you with better customer service and recourse in case of issues.
Use well-known and reputable travel agencies that have established a track record of good customer service.
Utilize price comparison tools to find cheap flights, but verify the final booking through the airline’s official website.
While Kiwi.com may appear to offer an enticing option for budget travelers, the myriad of negative reviews and horror stories from real customers serve as a stark warning. The potential for unreliable bookings, terrible customer service, and hidden costs makes Kiwi.com a risky choice for any traveler.
Always prioritize reliability and transparency when booking your travels to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.