NEWS
TSA Reminder: Don’t Pack Power Banks in Checked Bags

Heading out this summer? Double-check your suitcase—TSA prohibits portable battery chargers (power banks) in checked bags due to fire risks from lithium-ion batteries. They’re still allowed in carry-ons, where they can be monitored for overheating or damage. If your carry-on is gate-checked, you must remove chargers and bring them onboard. Violating this rule could lead to hefty fines—up to $17,062—or losing TSA PreCheck privileges. The TSA advises travelers to also check for power bank recalls, such as a recent one affecting over 429,000 Caesly devices.

Play it safe: pack smart, stay updated, and keep chargers close.

More news to know:

⚠️The U.S. has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Indonesia, urging travelers to exercise increased caution due to terrorism and natural disasters. Central and Highland Papua are under a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” warning. Travelers are advised to stay informed and enroll in the Smart Traveler program.

🚢 A major brawl at the Galveston cruise terminal landed 24 travelers on Carnival’s “Do Not Sail” list. It reportedly took several security guards to break it up. Fighting violates Carnival’s code of conduct, and some involved were detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Not the smoothest start to vacation!

Caught on Camera at 30,000 Feet
Viral Airplane Video Raises Legal and Privacy Concerns

A recent viral video of a woman refusing to swap airplane seats has stirred up more than just online opinions—it’s raised serious questions about filming people mid-flight. After being recorded without consent and posted online, the woman took legal action, spotlighting the blurry lines between public behavior and personal privacy.

Experts say airplanes are public-ish spaces, but secretly filming someone—especially during a private moment—could land you in legal trouble. Just because you can record doesn’t mean you should post.

Etiquette pros remind us: if you’re being filmed, stay calm, speak up, and get help from someone in charge. And about that seat switch? It’s a nice gesture—but not your duty.

ENDING SOON
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HOTEL HACKS
Experts Reveal the Hacks That Score You the Best Hotel Rooms and Deals

Looking to make your next hotel stay feel a little more luxe—without spending extra? The travel insiders at Hotels.com shared their favorite little-known tricks, and we’re here for it. Here are the top tips to help you score upgrades, extras, and better rooms:

🌟 Travel in January – Fewer tourists means better prices and more availability for upgrades.

🛌 Stay on a Sunday – Weekend crowds are gone, and hotels are more likely to offer you a better room.

🏙️ Book in business districts (on weekends) – Business travelers clear out, so you can often snag upscale rooms for less.

🐶 Bring your dog – Pet-friendly rooms are sometimes the biggest in the hotel!

⏰ Book and check in late – Last-minute bookings or late check-ins can lead to free upgrades if standard rooms are full.

🌆 Ask for a high floor or corner room – They’re usually bigger, quieter, and come with better views.

📱 Use your social media – Mention that you’ll be posting about your stay… it might just work in your favor.

😊 Be kind to the front desk – A little friendliness can go a long way, from better rooms to late check-out or even free wine.

🍳 Always ask about breakfast deals – Hidden food perks and discounts are often just a question away.

WONDER!
You Can Opt Out of TSA Facial Recognition—Here’s How and Why!

☑️ TSA is rolling out facial recognition at airports nationwide, claiming it speeds up security and confirms identities more efficiently. But here’s what many travelers don’t realize: you don’t have to participate—and saying no won’t delay your trip. TSA makes it clear (though not loudly): facial scans are optional. You can simply ask for a manual ID check, keep your spot in line, and move along normally.

Privacy experts urge travelers to opt out. They warn facial recognition is prone to errors—especially for people of color—and can pave the way for government overreach. Though TSA says it doesn't store photos (except in test settings), concerns remain about long-term use, misuse, and normalization of facial surveillance.

Legally, you're well within your rights to decline. All it takes is a polite refusal at the checkpoint. No hassle, no delay—just a small stand for your privacy.