How airline passengers are deceived by seat reservation games
As the airlines have begun unbundling their airfares, many seats now require paid reservations. On some flights, I have seen every aisle seat and every window seat tagged with an extra fee, anywhere from $25-$43 and more. Airline seating rules are an airline seat reservation games mess.
How to handle the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in 2025
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening is the most dreaded part of a flight for many passengers — especially in 2025. TSA has a well-deserved reputation for treating air travelers like cattle. From yelling at them at the checkpoint (“all laptops,...
7 low-tech vacation travel tips for a high-tech age
A savvy traveler has have heard and read thousands of vacation travel tips before. The litany of show up early, watch out and avoid “amateur” travelers, be prepared for extra-full overhead bins, get to the airport early, etc. Enjoy these 7 low-tech travel tips.
Real ID deadline fast approaching on May 7, 2025, but actually in 2027!
The Real ID soft deadline is less tha four months away, but the final Real ID deadline isn't until May 5, 2027. This May 7, air travelers without Real IDs will be issued warnings by TSA. The Real ID deadline is less than four months away . . . kind of. The Real ID...
Know the TSA firearms travel rules for passengers on planes
An amazing 5,972 firearms were stopped over the course of 2021, up more than 1,500 from the previous record of 4,432 guns seized in 2019. Passengers should follow the TSA firearms travel rules. As can be seen in the video above, there are specific TSA firearms...
Final-boarding rule — the random airline 10-minute rule
The final-boarding rule is important and random. It still exists while airlines battle this pandemic. While flights have a scheduled departure time, the gate agent will close the door to the plane about ten minutes before departure. Depending on what side of the door you’re on, it means a huge sigh of relief, a delayed, or ruined trip.
Travel with technology? Are you ready to make it easy?
I have suggestions to help you travel with technology more easily and reduce the amount of gear you need to keep them going. Travel with technology, particularly international trips, is often substantial these days. Supporting the technology without a large bag of...
How you can find on-time statistics on airline websites
On-time statistics are important for travelers. DOT recognizes this importance. Travelers use arrival times in order to plan for enough time to get to connecting flights. Many also hope that checked baggage makes the connection as well,
Using Apple AirTags and other devices to track luggage
More and more of us are using Apple AirTags and Tile Trackers. Since more people are flying, lost luggage is a growing market. These devices are developed to find items that often get lost. This development is perfect for travelers. They know where their checked bags...
Consumer Alert: Where to find low airfares now
Bad news: Airfares are rising again in 2025, with domestic ticket prices expected to climb 10 to 15 percent, according to a new prediction. But there's good news, too. In some destinations, prices will fall this year. You have to know where to find low airfares....