What to Know About Gate-Checking Your Bag: Tips to Prepare and Avoid Surprises

LATEST NEWS
Massive Quake Triggers Pacific Tsunami Alerts: What to Know

• A massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s eastern coast, triggering tsunami warnings across the Pacific, from Japan to California and Chile.

• Waves hit Hawaii, California, and Alaska, with the highest reaching 5.7 feet in Maui. Most U.S. warnings were later downgraded or expired, with minimal damage reported.

• Chile remained on red alert, while U.S. officials urged continued vigilance, warning of dangerous currents and residual surges.

• In Russia, the quake caused structural damage, coastal erosion, and triggered a volcanic eruption on the Kamchatka Peninsula.

• Authorities stress knowing evacuation routes, using emergency alerts, and recognizing natural warning signs like strong shaking, as self-evacuation may be critical.

London Flight Shutdown: What It Means for Travellers

A radar issue temporarily grounded all flights at London airports, with effects rippling across the UK and Europe. Here’s what you need to know:

• The issue is resolved, but widespread delays and cancellations are affecting flights in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Europe.

• If your flight is delayed, airlines must provide food, drinks, and overnight accommodation for long delays.

• If your flight is cancelled, you’re entitled to a refund or alternative flight, possibly with another airline — keep receipts for expenses.

• Compensation applies if delays/cancellations are the airline's fault (e.g. tech issues, staff illness), not for extraordinary circumstances like air traffic problems.

• You can claim for missed connections, use ADR schemes or take legal action, and some travel insurance may offer limited compensation.

Blue Sky Takes Off: JetBlue and United’s New Partnership Approved

• The Department of Transportation has approved the Blue Sky partnership between JetBlue and United Airlines, allowing customers to book flights on either airline’s platforms.

• The collaboration includes loyalty program crossover, enabling travelers to earn and use points/miles across both airlines, with shared perks like priority boarding and extra legroom.

• The deal also expands flight access at major airports like JFK and Newark, and integrates United’s travel extras into JetBlue’s Paisly platform starting this fall.

TRAVEL TIPS
What to Know About Gate-Checking Your Bag: Tips to Prepare and Avoid Surprises

• Gate-checking usually happens due to limited overhead bin space or when flying on smaller planes like regional jets (CRJ, Embraer) or turboprops (Q400), which have less cabin storage.

• Boarding late on a larger aircraft can also lead to gate-checking if bins fill up before your turn.

• Knowing your plane type and boarding group helps anticipate if gate-checking is likely so you can prepare in advance.

• Gate-checked bags go into the cargo hold, so remove essentials like medications, valuables, passports, and lithium-ion batteries to keep with you in the cabin.

• Fragile or glass items should not be placed in gate-checked bags because they may be handled roughly.

• After landing, gate-checked bags are typically returned either on the jet bridge or at baggage claim, depending on the airline, so listen carefully to crew instructions.

• Many airlines offer free gate-checking and may encourage it to speed boarding, but some low-cost carriers may charge fees if your bag is oversized or you haven’t prepaid for carry-ons.

• It’s always a good idea to check your airline’s gate-check policy on their website or ask the gate agent to avoid surprises.

TRENDING
Flocking: The Gen Z Dating Trend Replacing Apps with Travel

Feeling burnt out by dating apps? You're not alone—and now, many singles are swapping swipes for suitcases. The latest trend, called flocking, involves traveling to new destinations with the hope of making romantic connections in real life.

According to Priceline’s 2025 Travel Trend Report, Gen Z is leading the charge, viewing travel as the new dating app, seeking vacation flings, and choosing locations known for social energy. Rather than relying on algorithms, young travelers are meeting others in hotel bars, on group excursions, and in vibrant social settings.

Priceline even launched a flash-deal series called “Get the Flock Out,” offering discounts on Gen Z–approved destinations—think beach towns and boutique hotels perfect for mingling. Whether you're flying solo or with friends, flocking is all about creating natural connections in new places—no apps required.

WONDERING!
The Most Expensive Country to Visit in 2025?

Travel costs vary worldwide. A new study reveals the most and least expensive countries for U.S. travelers in 2025.

• Iceland is the most expensive country for U.S. tourists in 2025, costing over $400 per day due to 5.5% inflation and high daily expenses.

• Australia ranks second with about $280 per day, despite lower inflation at 2.4%.

• Mexico is third, impacted by a 6.4% rise in its currency against the dollar, increasing costs for Americans.

• Popular European spots like the UK, Germany, and Italy remain pricey but have become slightly more affordable due to exchange rates.

• The cheapest destinations are Thailand and Indonesia ($70/day), helped by weaker currencies.

• The study looked at daily costs, inflation, and currency strength to the U.S. dollar, highlighting how exchange rates can affect travel budgets.