In Japan, abandoned suitcases have become such a problem that some are being reused or even given away to avoid storage and disposal costs. Many are left behind when travelers buy new bags to fit souvenirs. With rising fees for checked and carry-on luggage, could this trend spread elsewhere?
I’d like to hear from travelers: Have you ever abandoned a bag—at an airport, hotel, or on a trip abroad? If so, why?
From experts, I’d like to know how common luggage abandonment has been, and is becoming. What's driving it? Are airlines, hotels, or airports seeing more of this? Also, what happens to bags that are left behind, and how do storage and disposal costs factor in? Finally, could rising luggage fees be making the problem worse, and what are the implications for consumers?
The Department of Transportation just dropped a proposed rule that would have required airlines to compensate U.S. travelers for delayed flights. Behind the scenes, the airline industry is lobbying to undo even more consumer protections — from refund requirements to fee disclosures.
I'm researching a story about which rules are most at risk of being rolled back, and what travelers can do to protect themselves if airlines get their way.
I'm looking for air travelers who’ve already felt the sting of weakened protections. Maybe it was a delayed refund, being forced to accept a credit, or a surprise airline fee. I'm interested in hearing your personal stories about what happens when rules vanish and passengers are left to fend for themselves.
For industry experts, I'd love to know which DOT regulations are most vulnerable. How would repealing these rules affect travelers? And what steps can consumers take now to safeguard themselves?
If you’ve experienced any of this, I'd love to hear your story.