Consumer Advice

Airlines have bankruptcy laws to protect them in fragile financial circumstances. As a consumer, do you know how to protect yourself from losing money if an airline shuts down? Consider a few strategies for keeping your money safer during turbulent economic times at the airlines.

It's a legitimate question. If you're taking a short, relatively inexpensive trip, your need for insurance is minimal. But if details of your dream trip (with prices to match) suddenly are threatened, what economic consequences would you face? Check out some considerations for the possible purchase of travel insurance.

How much do you know about travel insurance? There are many types of policies available. Once you determine you'd like to buy a policy, take a look at the variety of products and how they might protect you.

Price gouging is a natural consequence of panic buying. But those who take advantage of people in such situations deserve to be shunned in the marketplace or perhaps even prosecuted. The effectiveness of price gouging laws is a topic of debate in other places. This is simply a place to consider how a complaint can be launched and where it might be directed.

There are a few simple steps that lead to effective complaining. Making a scene or aimless threats often does more harm than good. Knowing how to complain is important, so take a look at these steps and increase your chances for success at the ticket counter or consumer affairs window.

Because many travel products must be purchased before delivery and over the Internet, there is ample opportunity in the industry for scam artists to succeed. If you think you're immune from such hoaxes, be prepared to join thousands of other victims who were equally confident. Take a look at how travel scams unfold and some tips for avoiding them.

This list of 10 common "red flags" should make you more cautious and even a bit skeptical as a travel consumer. Asking the right questions before the sale can prevent you from becoming a victim.