Kay Rihn reserves a nonrefundable rental car through Hotwire and uses a payment system that allows her to send a check. When she doesn’t receive a confirmation from the online agency, she mails a check anyway. Turns out she doesn’t have a reservation. But her money? It’s gone.

Elliott is consumer advocate
WHAT'S YOUR PROBLEM? If you're having trouble with a travel business - any business - and you've reached a dead end, maybe I can help. Send me an