✈️ Hidden Code on Your Boarding Pass Could Get You Bumped

BOARDING PASS
✈️ Hidden Code on Your Boarding Pass Could Get You Bumped

It’s not just the dreaded SSSS you need to worry about—there’s another subtle code on your boarding pass that could affect whether you fly or get left behind.

• The “SEQ” number indicates the order in which you checked in—and can impact whether you're involuntarily bumped from an overbooked flight.

• Airlines may use check-in time as a deciding factor when choosing who gets bumped.

• One traveler shared being denied boarding after checking in last, despite having a valid ticket.

• The U.S. Department of Transportation requires airlines to explain bumping policies and provide compensation (though it’s not guaranteed).

• To reduce the risk, always check in early—typically up to 24 hours before departure.

Checking in late doesn’t just mean a bad seat—it might mean no seat at all.

BIG NEWS
✈️ Southwest Quietly Alters Plus-Size Seating Rules

A major shift is coming to Southwest Airlines' long-standing policy for plus-size passengers, aligning with its move to assigned seating starting in 2026.

• Beginning Jan. 27, 2026, passengers needing an extra seat must pay upfront and request a refund later, even if space is available.

• Complimentary extra seats at the gate will no longer be offered.

• Refunds are only possible if the flight had open seats, both tickets were in the same fare class, and a refund is requested within 90 days.

• If no adjacent seats are available, passengers may be rebooked on a later flight.

• Southwest says the update ensures space while adjusting for its new assigned seating model.

Despite the policy shift, Southwest remains one of the most accommodating U.S. carriers for customers of size.

HOLIDAY TRAVEL
🚗 When Not to Drive This Labor Day, According to AAA

Labor Day weekend promises busy highways, but timing your trip right can save you hours in traffic, says AAA.

• Worst travel times are in the afternoons and early evenings, especially in cities like Boston and Seattle.

• To beat traffic: leave before 1 p.m. (Thu), 12 p.m. (Fri & Mon), and 10 a.m. (Sat).

• I-93 N (Boston) and I-90 W (Seattle) will be the most congested on Monday.

• Car rentals are about 3% cheaper, and domestic flights are 6% lower than last year.

• Top destinations: Seattle, Orlando, New York, Boston, and Anchorage; with Rome and Vancouver leading international picks.

Early birds will dodge the jams—and maybe even save some cash.

OVERHEAD TIPS
🧳 Want Overhead Bin Space? This Simple Upgrade Could Guarantee It

Tired of gate-checking your carry-on? A small, smart upgrade could be your ticket to stress-free boarding—and guaranteed overhead space.

• The easiest way to secure bin space is by purchasing a priority boarding upgrade, starting around $24–$30 on airlines like United and Southwest.

• This puts you in an earlier boarding group, well ahead of the overhead bin rush often faced by Group 7/8 or Zone 7/8 travelers.

• Priority boarding is usually cheaper than checking a bag, and can be added via airline websites, apps, or at the airport.

• Other early boarding routes include premium tickets, frequent flyer programs, or airline-branded credit cards that offer added perks.

• With rising baggage fees and shrinking cabin space, early access can prevent missed connections and travel mishaps.

If bin space matters to you, this small investment may be your best carry-on insurance.

FAMILY TRAVEL
👶 Best Airline for Kids? A New Report Has the Answer

Flying with children is tough, but some U.S. airlines are doing more than others to ease the stress. A new AirAdvisor report ranked carriers based on family-friendliness—and one airline rose above the rest.

• American Airlines took the top spot with pre-boarding, free stroller check, baby meals, and automatic seating with parents.

• Other top family-friendly airlines: United, Delta, Hawaiian, Alaska, and JetBlue.

• United and Delta offer perks like bassinets, activity kits, and flexible seating policies.

• Hawaiian Airlines guarantees children under 13 sit with an adult, plus offers free stroller check and bookable bassinets.

• JetBlue ranked lowest for lacking bassinets and advanced child-focused services—though still offers free snacks and family seating..

EXPLORE MORE
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HOTEL SAFETY
🛏️ This U.S. City Has the Worst Bed Bug Problem

Orkin’s latest report reveals which cities are facing the worst bed bug infestations, especially in hotels—and how to avoid bringing them home.

• Chicago ranked #1 for the fifth year in a row, followed by Cleveland, Detroit, Los Angeles, and Indianapolis.

• Cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Charlotte saw declines in reported infestations.

• Bed bugs are most commonly found in hotels, hiding in sheets, curtains, cushions, and other soft furnishings.

• Use Orkin’s “SLEEP” method: Search, Lift, Elevate, Examine, and Place clothes in a hot dryer upon returning home.

SLEEP Method:

Search your hotel room for bugs or stains.
Lift sheets and cushions to inspect.
Elevate bags on a luggage rack.
Examine luggage at home.
Place clothes in a hot dryer for 30–45 mins to kill bugs or eggs.