Traveling is a lot of fun, but don't let your vacation fall victim to scams, world events or changing regulations. By staying informed and being a careful consumer, your dream vacation can be everything you want it to be.

FEATURE: Secure Flight and You

Beginning in mid-2009, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require travelers to provide their full name date of birth and gender as shown on the identification document that they plan to present at airport security check-points.

More Secure flight details.

Consumer Travel Alerts

ESTA Reminder for U.S.-Bound Travelers from Visa Waiver Countries

The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is reminding U.S.-bound travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) requirement.

US and American Airways Raise Baggage Fees
Effective Jan. 12, 2010, Delta and Continental Air Lines have increased their domestic checked baggage fees to $23 for the first bag and to $32 for the second bag when baggage fees are paid for in advance during online check-in. For airport check-in, the baggage fees have increased to $25 for the first bag and to $35 for the second bag.

Effective Jan. 16, 2010, United Airlines has increased its domestic checked baggage fees by $5. For online check-in, the new first bag fee is $20 and the second bag fee is $30. For airport check-in, the first bag fee is $25 and the second bag fee is $35.

U.S. Border Crossing Requirements Have Changed!
Effective June 1, 2009, U.S. citizens returning home from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda, by land or sea, will be required to present one of a variety of new travel documents. Make sure you're prepared before you leave on your trip. More details.

Global Entry Program Now Available at Select US Airports
Global Entry is a new, voluntary trusted traveler pilot program open to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents that allows program members to enter the United States more quickly by using automated kiosks located in the U.S. Arrivals area of select airports. More details.

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For additional travel advice and consumer travel information, please visit our suggested websites.

• Know Before you Go
• State Department Travel Warnings
• State Consumer Affairs
• Airline Passenger's Bill of Rights