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.

Spring break 2024 is shaping up to be the busiest yet. Learn how to beat the crowds and save on travel costs with advice from industry experts. From choosing alternative destinations to booking early, find out the best strategies for an affordable and enjoyable spring break experience.

What to expect when you travel this spring break

April 13, 2024January 27, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

It’s not too soon to start thinking about your spring break. That’s because this spring break may be the busiest one — ever.

Ronald Crossley faces a challenging situation with his Hamilton Beach toaster oven, experiencing both functional issues and poor customer service. Despite his efforts to return the appliance and request a refund, he encounters unresponsiveness, leading him to seek advice on how to navigate this frustrating consumer predicament.

“Burned” by my Hamilton Beach toaster oven. Why can’t I get a refund?

August 31, 2024January 26, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Ronald Crossley’s Hamilton Beach toaster oven doesn’t work. And apparently, neither does the Hamilton Beach customer service department. How does he get this appliance fixed?

Thinking about a spring break vacation? You better think fast, because the 2025 spring break travel season will be busier -- and potentially more expensive -- than ever.

Here’s your insider guide to spring break travel in 2025

October 25, 2024January 25, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Thinking about a spring break vacation? You better think fast, because the 2025 spring break travel season will be busier — and potentially more expensive — than ever.

In this intriguing case, Evonne Hopkins faces a dilemma after booking a room without a private bathroom through SuperTravel. Despite their no-refund policy, she challenges the lack of disclosure. Find out how this situation unfolds and if SuperTravel adjusts its stance in this captivating travel troubleshooter story.

Help! My bed & breakfast doesn’t have a bathroom!

February 5, 2024January 24, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Evonne Hopkins books a room at a bed & breakfast that doesn’t have a bathroom. Can she get her money back?

Flooded bathroom.

She left her “unsafe” Vrbo rental. Can she get her money back?

May 14, 2024January 22, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Nicole Morin wants her money back for the “unsafe” vacation rental she booked through Vrbo. And she wants me to help her get it.

In the wake of recent aviation incidents, many question the safety of air travel. Experts reveal telltale signs of potentially unsafe flights, especially in regions with lax aviation regulations. Learn key indicators and how to ensure a safer journey, from checking airline blacklists to selecting reputable carriers.

Is my flight safe? Here’s how to tell before you board

August 31, 2024January 20, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Flying may be the safest way to travel, but it sure hasn’t felt that way lately.

In this detailed account, John faces a challenging transaction dispute with PayPal over a $2,600 fraud. The incident highlights significant flaws in digital transaction security, prompting a deep dive into PayPal's handling of unauthorized activities. Learn essential tips for safeguarding your online transactions and understand the complexities of resolving such disputes in the evolving landscape of digital finance

How do I get PayPal to reverse a fraudulent charge for $2,600? Can you help?

September 25, 2024January 19, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

PayPal won’t refund an unauthorized charge on John Boham-Cook’s account, even though it reversed two others by the same fraudster. How can he get the company to see things his way?

Krishnamurthy Viswanathan's hotel room in London is smaller than he expects and has poor ventilation. Can he get his money back?

This hotel is too small and I have a headache! Can I get my money back?

November 17, 2024January 17, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Krishnamurthy Viswanathan’s hotel room in London is smaller than he expects and has poor ventilation. Can he get his money back?

Lillian Kohler faced losing $36,000 after Vantage Travel's bankruptcy. Unlike others, she discovered a potential path to a refund. This story explores the complexities of cruise line bankruptcies and offers insights on protecting your travel investments, highlighting the crucial role of consumer advocacy in navigating these turbulent situations.

Will she get a $36,000 refund for her canceled Vantage Travel cruise?

January 16, 2024January 15, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Lillian Kohler never imagined she’d get stiffed for $36,000 by a supposedly reputable cruise company like Vantage Travel.

In a quest for better customer service, frustrated travelers like Robert Grunfeld are recording their calls with airlines. While this tactic can yield mixed results, experts suggest alternative strategies, highlighting the complexities of customer service interactions and the evolving legal and ethical considerations in the digital age.

Frustrated travelers start recording customer service phone calls. But does it work?

January 16, 2024January 13, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Oh, the lengths some people will go to get better customer service. Like recording phone calls with a customer service agent.