On Travel – Page 7 – Elliott Report

Overpacking is a common issue for many travelers, driven by insecurities, stress, and inexperience. With airlines raking in billions from luggage fees, it's time to rethink how much you really need to bring on your trips. From witnessing tourists struggling with oversized bags in destinations like Interlaken, Rio de Janeiro, and Bangkok, to hearing experts explain why we pack too much, this article offers insights and practical tips to help you pack smarter. Embrace minimalism, adjust your travel expectations, and avoid unnecessary fees on your next adventure.

You’re overpacking! Here’s how to lighten up when you travel

September 5, 2024August 25, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

You’re carrying too much luggage. Here’s how to lighten up.

Traveling recently? You're not alone if you've encountered laughably bad customer service. I lost my credit card last week, and my bank botched the replacement, sending it to the wrong address. Now, I'm stuck on endless calls with unhelpful representatives. The travel industry isn't faring any better, with record complaints and declining service quality. Airlines, car rentals, and hotels are scoring low in customer satisfaction. As travel booms, companies are taking customers for granted. Learn why this is happening and what you can do to manage the situation effectively.

Want better customer service when you travel? You must be joking

January 13, 2025August 18, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

If you think customer service is a joke, you’ve probably been traveling recently.

Richard Campbell experienced a nightmarish encounter with bedbugs at a small hotel in Italy's Cinque Terre. Awaking to bites on his arms and legs, he discovered bugs on the headboard and wall. The hotel owners, horrified, immediately took action by moving him to another room, laundering his clothes, and fumigating the room. They even refunded his stay and compensated him. Insect encounters, from bedbugs to ants and mosquitoes, are on the rise due to increased travel and climate change. Travelers should be prepared and know their rights when dealing with these pesky intruders.

Insects on vacation: How to spot them and how to avoid them

August 31, 2024August 11, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Insects are coming for your next vacation.

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.

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?

Airline space shortages are forcing passengers to stuff unusual items under their seats, leading to surprising consequences. With increased luggage fees and reduced cabin space, the battle for personal space has intensified. Passengers are trying to fit everything from fragile medical devices to oversized coolers and rollaboards under their seats. The cramped conditions raise safety concerns and lead to discomfort. The unpredictable amount of legroom and airlines' lack of transparency about space reductions add to the chaos. What bizarre items are people squeezing under their seats, and how is it affecting their flights?

That doesn’t go under the seat! Space shortage is squeezing airline passengers

April 26, 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.

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?

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.

September 14, 2024July 6, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

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

If you're upset about being asked for a gratuity at every turn, from convenience stores to websites, you might have a case of tip rage. Gail Sahar, a psychology professor, explains that the increasing expectations for tipping feel unfair and lead to frustration. This anger, combined with aggressive solicitations for tips and guilt over service workers' wages, fuels tip rage. Consumers resent being pressured to tip before receiving service, while service workers rely on tips for their income, creating a cycle of mutual frustration and resentment. How can we address this growing issue?

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

June 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.

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 3, 2025June 22, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

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