How do you avoid the world’s most dangerous travel scam? Don’t fall for something “free”
Say the word “free,” and it’s enough to make even the most experienced travelers lose their marbles.
CONSUMER ADVOCACY
Has the travel industry turned its back on its smoke-free promises?
If you think your next trip will be smoke-free, think again. The travel industry has abandoned its smoke-free promises — mostly.
Bugs and dog urine in my vacation rental. I want a refund!
Mary Brewer’s vacation rental in Branson, Mo., is a mess, filled with bugs and dog urine. Can she get a refund for her bad vacation rental?
Hertz ran out of cars. Why is Booking.com keeping $65 for my rental?
What should you do if your car rental company runs out of cars? Can your online booking site just keep your money? Here’s the unfortunate truth.
PayPal problem: I have a broken Acer Chromebook — but no refund!
The screen on Laura Eichenhorn’s new Acer Chromebook is warped. But when she returns it, PayPal keeps her money — and the merchant keeps her computer. How do you fix this PayPal problem?
Do I really have to pay this $450 cleaning fee from Budget?
When Joseph Hall returns his car to Budget, it drops a $450 cleaning fee on him. Does he have to pay all of it?
A SIM swapping nightmare leads to a $3,809 bill from Best Buy. Can Chase help?
What is SIM swapping and how do you prevent it? Here’s how to protect yourself from identity theft and reclaim your money.
I want my money back for this hotel! Can I dispute a credit card charge made abroad?
Can I dispute a credit card charge I made abroad? That’s what one of our readers wants to know. Here’s the surprising answer.
How to protect yourself from travel fakes
Travel fakes like this are on the uptick in 2025. Criminals are using artificial intelligence to create fake websites, listings and social media profiles designed to separate you from your money.