Replying to Backcountry help

Hey NS, I was trying to get into backcountry skiing this year (my first year skiing) and needed some help with my setup. I couldn't afford an airbag so I'm planing on wearing a life jacket instead, it's the same basic principal of flotation so it should be fine. I was also wondering if anyone had any experience cutting skins? I could only afford one skin but luckily I'll be touring on ski blades this season (they're the lightest skis I own) and I was wondering if I could cut my single skin in half since it's all I need? Beacons are also a little pricey so instead I will be using a cell phone and calling my parents in the case of an avalanche. Thanks guys!