Jack Hawkins articles

I have to fly across the world for a sudden death in the family. I booked a cheap "bereavement flight," then the airline discontinued them. What now?

A traveler-friendly guide to what happens when bereavement flights are discontinued, including which airlines still offer them, how to find flexible last-minute fares, and what to do when you need to fly for a family death.
April 10, 2026 Jack Hawkins
Airport

I handle sensitive information for work. The TSA wanted to go through my laptop files and refused to let me through when I said no. Can they do that?

Can TSA search your laptop files and deny you boarding if you refuse? Here’s what airport security can actually do, how it differs from CBP border searches, and how to protect sensitive work data when you fly.
April 9, 2026 Jack Hawkins

While I was on vacation, my HOA painted my house to match the rest. I hate the color, and I didn't receive their "notice email". What can I do?

While on vacation, your HOA painted your house without your approval and claims it sent notice by email. Here is what you can do, how to challenge the decision, and when to escalate the dispute.
April 9, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I had a wrapped birthday present in my luggage to bring for my daughter's birthday. It was cut open by TSA and I was left with the box. Why?

Why would TSA cut open a wrapped birthday present in your luggage? This fun, easy-to-read article explains why it happens, what airport screening sees, and how to pack gifts safely for future trips.
April 8, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I'm on vacation and have been letting my brother stay at my house. My HOA called the cops. He was arrested for squatting. What can I do?

Your unhoused brother stayed at your house while you were on vacation, the HOA called police, and he was arrested for squatting. Here is what to do next, from gathering proof to finding legal help.
April 7, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I'm going away for vacation and want someone to house-sit for me. My HOA says long-term guests aren't allowed. What should I do?

Heading out on vacation but worried your HOA may ban long-term guests? Here’s a smart, practical guide to using a house-sitter without breaking the rules, plus tips for talking to your HOA and protecting your home.
April 3, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I accidentally spilled a bit of water on my passport. It didn't damage it too badly, but some pages are smudged. Can I still travel with it?

Spilled water on your passport and worried you cannot travel? Here is how to tell if a water-damaged or smudged passport is still usable, when to replace it, and how to avoid being denied boarding.
April 3, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I want to bring my cat onboard my flight as an emotional support animal. The airline says cats don't qualify, but she's certified. What can I do?

Can you bring your cat onboard as an emotional support animal? Here is what current U.S. airline rules say, why certification may not help, and the smartest ways to fly with your cat anyway.
April 2, 2026 Jack Hawkins
Airport

I paid $5,000 for a beautiful urn for my veteran son's ashes. It was broken by TSA for inspection, and I received his ashes in a Ziploc. Can I sue?

A traveler says TSA broke a $2,000 urn holding her mother’s ashes and returned the remains in a Ziploc bag. Here’s whether she can sue, how TSA claims work, and what steps matter most.
March 31, 2026 Jack Hawkins