You get to the gate, your carry-on has already survived check-in, security, and the terminal walk, and then an agent says it has to be checked. A few minutes later, you find out there’s a fee attached. That feels backwards to a lot of travelers, and honestly, it’s why this question comes up so often. The short answer is that it can be allowed, but it depends on why the bag was taken from you and what the airline’s published rules say.

The whole point of going through the process of getting TSA Pre Check was to skip the long lines, keep your shoes on, and move through security faster. Then one day, you show your boarding pass and instead of getting the usual PreCheck experience, you’re sent to the regular screening line. The agent says you were just “randomly selected,” but you still paid for the benefit of getting through security faster. So can TSA really do that, or is something wrong with your status?

At first glance, everything seems fine. Then you open your suitcase and notice the TSA inspection notice sitting inside. That’s not unusual on its own. What is unusual is what you see next: some items are broken. Now you’re left wondering what happened while your bag was out of your hands and whether anyone is actually responsible for the damage. The good news is you’re not without options, but acting quickly and documenting everything is key.

Unveil the secrets of the Farallon Islands, located off the coast of San Francisco. Join us as we delve into the islands' rich history, unique wildlife, and ecological significance. From the mysterious shipwrecks that surround these rocky outcrops to the diverse marine life that calls the surrounding waters home, our in-depth exploration provides a deep understanding of the Farallons.

Unlock the secrets of the Asaro Mudmen in our comprehensive article. From the origins of their iconic mud masks to the profound cultural significance behind each ritual, delve into the captivating world of this Papua New Guinean tribe.

Discover the Nenets, a nomadic tribe living in the Russian Arctic. Learn how they survive the extreme climate, including what they eat and how they rely on reindeer herding for the livelihood, and find out how you can join them for a tourist experience unlike any other.

Portraits of bad-boy astronomer Tycho Brahe show off his custom gold now. But historians have also pointed out a scandalous detail.

Johnny Weissmuller was the Olympian-turned-actor most famous for originating the role of Tarzan on screen. And in classic Old Hollywood style, his real life was every bit as wild as the famous “Ape Man’s”.