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On Travel

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.

John Smaistrla, a civil engineer from Houston, had a close call with a pickpocket on the Paris Métro Line 3. He felt a bump but thought nothing of it until he noticed his pants pocket zippers partially open. Thankfully, his wallet was still there, thanks to his secure travel shorts with triple-secure pockets. Pickpocketing is a growing issue for travelers, with thousands of Americans reporting stolen passports yearly. Experts advise using zippered pockets, crossbody bags, and being vigilant in crowded areas to prevent falling victim to these skilled thieves.

Traveling somewhere? Here’s how not to be a pickpocket victim

May 18, 2025August 4, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

On a recent trip to Paris, John Smaistrla was just a bump away from becoming a pickpocket victim. 

Categories On Travel

Angry air travelers are lashing out at each other. Here’s what to do.

December 15, 2024July 27, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Is it my imagination, or are air travelers getting angrier at each other this summer? 

Categories On Travel
A fragile medical device. An overstuffed rollaboard. A large cooler filled with snacks. You'd be shocked by what passengers are trying to fit under their economy class seats these days.

Why the space shortage is squeezing airline passengers

June 8, 2025July 20, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

A fragile medical device. An overstuffed rollaboard. A large cooler filled with snacks.You’d be shocked by what passengers are trying to fit under their economy class seats these days. 

Categories On Travel
Airlines are surprising customers with unexpected kindness, such as shedding fees and offering free perks. This shift, influenced by government regulations and a surge in passenger complaints, aims to improve customer satisfaction and retain loyalty. While low-cost carriers like Spirit and Frontier lead this change, even legacy airlines are stepping up. However, experts warn that this newfound niceness might be short-lived and could eventually result in higher fares. Real, lasting change will only occur when passengers value service quality over cost, pushing airlines to consistently prioritize customer care.

Why are airlines being so nice to you?

July 15, 2024July 13, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Airlines are shedding fees, giving away free stuff, and being extra nice to their customers. Has the world gone mad?

Categories On Travel
Shirley Barchi doesn't want anyone to know she's American when she travels abroad.

These tourists don’t want anyone to know they’re American. Here’s why.

December 27, 2025July 6, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Shirley Barchi doesn’t want anyone to know she’s American when she travels abroad.

Categories On Travel
If you're upset about being asked for a gratuity at every turn -- at convenience stores, supermarkets and even on websites -- then you might have a case of tip rage.

Angry about having to leave a gratuity? You might have tip rage

June 28, 2025June 29, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

If you’re upset about being asked for a gratuity at every turn — at convenience stores, supermarkets and even on websites — then you might have a case of tip rage.

Categories On Travel
Travel insurance can be crucial for summer vacations, but it’s not always necessary. Kingsley Hopkins, traveling to Portugal and Iceland, seeks coverage for medical emergencies and trip disruptions. With high travel demand and potential risks like natural disasters and health issues, older travelers especially should consider insurance. However, you might skip it if you already have coverage or if your trip is low-risk. Evaluate your prepaid expenses and international travel plans to decide. Hopkins opts for refundable bookings and a Medjet Horizon plan for peace of mind, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Do I need travel insurance for my summer vacation? It’s complicated

May 21, 2025June 22, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

If you’re planning to travel somewhere this summer, you’re probably thinking of buying travel insurance.

Categories On Travel
If it feels like you have a target on your back when you're traveling, you might be right. American tourists are being profiled like never before, often in harmless ways, but sometimes with serious consequences. For example, in Colombia, being identified as an American tourist could lead to drugging, robbery, or worse. The State Department warns of escalating dangers, emphasizing caution. While most profiling is just annoying, some can be hazardous to your health. Learn how to avoid being targeted and stay safe abroad.

Warning: American tourists are being profiled. Don’t be one of them!

July 10, 2024June 15, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

If it feels like you have a target on your back when you’re traveling, you might be right. Tourists are being profiled like never before.

Categories On Travel
Traveling this summer means packed flights, jammed roads, and full hotels. Flexibility is key: fly to nearby cities, explore less popular destinations, and consider stopover programs. Use tools like Airbnb's flexible dates search and Google Flights' flexible schedule options to save money and enhance your travel experience. Bend, but don’t break.

Try this pro trick for an affordable and stress-free summer vacation

June 15, 2024June 8, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Life is full of compromises, and that will never be more true than when you’re traveling this summer.

Categories On Travel
Want to start an argument? Just ask a random family member where to take your next vacation. Specifically, should you play it safe by returning to the same place -- or try something new? 

Should you repeat your vacation? Let’s settle this argument once and for all

November 16, 2025June 1, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Want to start an argument? Just ask a random family member where to take your next vacation. Specifically, should you play it safe by returning to the same place — or try something new? 

Categories On Travel
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