Author: Christopher Elliott
When Will Customers Just Say ‘No’ to Airlines?
Christopher Elliott on August 27, 2015
It’s no academic question for U.S. airlines, which continue to provoke passengers with new fees, surcharges and rules.
Beware the Most Vexing Travel Credit Card ‘Gotchas’
Christopher Elliott on August 19, 2015
Offering enticing perks such as “free” bags and “free” airline tickets, these cards are big on promises, but they often fall short on the delivery.
Why It’s Time to ‘Uber-ize’ Air Travel
Christopher Elliott on August 6, 2015
There are changes afoot that could force American airlines to improve their product, lower their prices and become more efficient.
Need to Cancel a Booking? Good Luck With That Refund
Christopher Elliott on July 30, 2015
Some companies will refuse refunds even if your canceled reservation is filled by someone else. A look at refund policies — good, bad and ugly.
What to Do When Your Travel Company Dumps You
Christopher Elliott on May 25, 2015
Although you can’t cancel your reservation without losing your money or paying a penalty, many travel-related companies do so without penalty.
Is Travel Insurance Worth Buying for Your Dream Vacation?
Christopher Elliott on May 14, 2015
The come-ons for insurance are constant and often compelling when you travel. If you buy in, beware the “gotcha clause.”
Are Airlines Fees Refundable? Often You Have to Guess
Christopher Elliott on January 21, 2015
You probably assume that many airline fees are refundable if your plans change. Airlines assume the opposite: that unless they specifically say a fee is refundable, it isn’t.
Problem Solved: DirecTV Billed Me $80 for a Cinema Connection Kit That Doesn’t Work
Christopher Elliott on January 15, 2015
When Abdul Blakney tries to get DirecTV on his laptop, the connection doesn’t work. Now he’s out $80 for a useless Cinema Connection Kit. Is there any hope for this customer?
What to Expect for Airfares and Other Travel Trends in 2015
Christopher Elliott on January 7, 2015
Would-be travelers could be in for some pleasant surprises if predictions are correct, but watch out for the extra fees.
Hey, What’s This ‘Disposition’ Fee From Hyundai?
Christopher Elliott on December 31, 2014
When Kim DeBiase ends her lease for a Hyundai Sonata, the dealership demands a $400 payment for a “disposition” fee. And that puts her in a bad disposition. Does she really have to fork over the money?
Here’s What You Need to Know Before Renting a Car Overseas
Christopher Elliott on December 24, 2014
Before you make the arrangements, do your homework about insurance and paperwork requirements and restrictions for those older than a certain age.
Dropping Off Your Rental Car Doesn’t Mean You’re Off the Hook
Christopher Elliott on December 18, 2014
Customers have been surprised by huge bills from car rental companies. Here’s why this is happening.
Here’s Why Hotels Put That Mysterious ‘Hold’ on Your Credit Card
Christopher Elliott on December 11, 2014
Many hotels place a pending charge on your credit card that’s far in excess of the cost of the room.
Sprint Doubled My Tablet Bill. What Should I Do?
Christopher Elliott on December 4, 2014
Why are Boris Kontsevich’s Sprint bills suddenly higher? You probably won’t like the answer — or how his wireless company tries to “fix” his problem.
Help, AT&T Is Harassing Me. What Should I Do?
Christopher Elliott on November 26, 2014
After Lori Collins cancels her AT&T account, she expects the bills to stop. They don’t, and now the company is sending her account to collections. What can she do?
If Fuel Costs Are Lower, What’s Keeping Airfares Sky High?
Christopher Elliott on November 19, 2014
The price of fuel doesn’t affect airfares the way it used to. Here’s why.
Hey, Verizon, What Happened to Those Discounts You Promised?
Christopher Elliott on November 6, 2014
Verizon promises Allen Myers $35 in monthly discounts on his bill, and he has it in writing. So why isn’t it honoring its agreement?
Why the Travel Industry’s Favorite New Word is ‘No’ – and What to Do About It
Christopher Elliott on October 30, 2014
Travelers are finding out the hard — and expensive — way that airlines and other travel companies are less willing to work with them when things don’t go as planned.
Shocked by a $1,443 Bill From My Toyota Dealership
Christopher Elliott on October 16, 2014
When Katherine LaFaso starts leasing a Toyota Prius, her dealership sends her a mysterious $1,443 bill. But for what?
Hey, Kohl’s, Why Can’t I Have Those Handbags at the Sale Price?
Christopher Elliott on October 9, 2014
Dolores Gillespie thinks she’s going to pay $12 for a handbag. But Kohl’s has other plans for her purchase. Who is right?
41 - 60 of 61