Christopher Elliott

Christopher Elliott is the founder of Elliott Advocacy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers consumers to solve their problems and helps those who can't. He's the author of numerous books on consumer advocacy and writes three nationally syndicated columns. He also publishes the Elliott Report, a news site for consumers, and Elliott Confidential, a critically acclaimed newsletter about customer service. If you have a consumer problem you can't solve, contact him directly through his advocacy website. You can also follow him on X, Facebook, and LinkedIn, or sign up for his daily newsletter.

Help! Travelex won’t cover my hotel problem

February 2, 2024November 16, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

Alexander Petlyarsky’s hotel reservation is not valid, even though he paid for it. Will his travel insurance cover the loss?

What does a Trump administration mean for American consumers?

February 2, 2024November 14, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

A Donald Trump presidency will either be great for American consumers — or it’ll be a disaster.

Budgetair’s new travel itinerary doesn’t work for me — how about a refund?

December 14, 2023November 14, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

When Joshua Menang’s travel agency changes his itinerary, he asks for his money back. The agency promises a partial refund but then fails to deliver. Can our advocates help him?

Don’t get lost: 3 insider tips on how to keep your stuff, so you don’t loose your luggage when you fly

February 2, 2024November 13, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

Luggage always seems to vanish. Airlines misplace one to two bags per flight, sometimes more, sometimes less.

What does Delta owe you if it cancels your flight?

Hey Delta, where are my vouchers? Delta, are you there?

September 19, 2024November 11, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

Help! CheapOair misspelled the name on my airline ticket

February 2, 2024November 11, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

After Jutta Baumgarten orders airline tickets through CheapOair, she discovers that her last name has been misspelled. Her only option is to buy another ticket and eat the loss. Is that fair?

No single beds so I slept with my companion and I want a refund

February 2, 2024November 10, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

Jarrett Wilson’s Hotwire rooms have “guaranteed” single beds. Oh wait, no they don’t. What now?

A broken kneecap, a denied insurance claim — and a missed cruise

February 2, 2024November 9, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

I know what you’re thinking. Did Debby Russo fall behind on her interest payments and get roughed up by a loan shark?

Don’t get broadsided by tolls when you rent a car

February 2, 2024November 8, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

When he crossed the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge in Northern California, James Kaiser expected Avis to bill him for the $5 toll. It did, then it added a convenience fee — of $19.75.

airport, terminal, gate, trip, travel, vacation, luggage, bag, baggage, walk, walking

Why travelers need price transparency now

February 2, 2024November 7, 2016 by Christopher Elliott

If the words “price transparency” don’t make your eyes glaze over, then you’re probably one of the hundreds of thousands of travelers who feel ripped off by a low price.