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.

CONSUMER TRAVEL ALERTS

The DOT has issued a quick pocket-guide providing tips travelers can take to make their trips safer when traveling with electronic devices and batteries. For example, the guide recommends passengers keep spare batteries in their original retail packaging; keep loose batteries covered with insulating tape to protect them from contact with metal objects; place each battery in its own protective case, plastic bag, or package; and pack spare batteries in carry-on baggage, rather than checked baggage. To learn more or download the guide, click here.

DOT to Host Miami Aviation Consumer Forum
The U.S. Dept. of Transportation (DOT) will be hosting an Aviation Consumer Forum at the Hilton Miami Downtown on April 17, 2008 from 8am to 4:45pm, to educate travelers about their rights as passengers and to discuss issues facing the airline industry. ASTA will be there to discuss its role in leading the fight for passenger rights. In total, there will be three consumer forums across the country in the next several months that the DOT hopes will involve airports, carriers, consumer groups, and government representatives who will explain their roles in certain areas of interest to the public (e.g., tarmac delay, flight irregularities, baggage, notice to consumers). Members of the public are invited and will be given the opportunity to speak and ask questions. There is no charge to attend.

New Travel Document Requirements for Re-Entering the U.S. Become Effective on January 31, 2008 - Beginning January 31, 2008, all United States and Canadian citizens 19 years and older will be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth or naturalization certificate, and proof of identity, such as a driver's license, when entering the U.S. through land and sea ports. More details...

Reminder: U.S. / Canada land and sea entry requirements to change on January 31.More details...

US, UK Revise Tighter Airport Screening Procedures: Expect Security Delays, Some Carry-On Liquids Allowed. Click here for details and tips on dealing with the new restrictions.

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