On Travel is a weekly consumer travel column that offers information and advice for people planning a business or leisure trip. The feature started in USA Today in 2013 and is now nationally syndicated.
Junk fees — hidden, mandatory extras added to your final bill — have mushroomed in recent months and travelers are crying foul. The government is waging a public war against these annoying extras, but businesses still love hitting their customers with extras because fooling them into paying more is highly profitable.
Ronald Duben is ready to give his credit card. He thinks there’s something better out there — and there almost certainly is.
You’ve probably heard about the new airline consumer protection rules that rolled out with a one-two punch last month. There were so many, it’s almost hard to keep track. And maybe you’re saying to yourself: Finally, I’ll have some rights when I fly.
Tipping is dead.
At least tipping, as you and I understand it. A mandatory 20 percent gratuity on every restaurant meal? Obligatory tips for housekeepers, concierges and tour guides? Kiss them goodbye.
Have you noticed all the kids at the airport lately?
Not so long ago, you could only find them at the terminal playground areas or the gates, where their parents kept a watchful eye on them. But no longer.
Vacation rental homes are being sold out from under travelers. Here’s how to avoid the problem — and how to deal with a cancellation.
No, it’s not too soon to start thinking of your summer 2024 vacation — and the smart travel strategies that will get you there without losing all your money (or your mind).
Flying cars have the potential to change the way you travel. Don’t laugh. It’s already happening.
Air travel has changed a lot. But it’s nothing compared to what lies ahead. Changed how? Well, you’ve probably heard about the higher airfares, the luggage fees and our persistent problem with in-flight violence.
There’s a war of scents going on at 36,000 feet. But what should you do when air travel smells bad?
