We recently booked airline reservations. We didn't realize that the names on our driver's licenses do not match the names exactly as they appear on the tickets (ie. Andy instead of Andrew, middle initials missing). Will this be a problem at airport check-in/boarding? If so, what do we need to do ahead of time?

Hi Sherri,

As of May 15, 2009, the TSA now requires your air travel reservations to be made under the exact name listed on your government issued ID. However, check out this blog post from them. They write, “But rest assured, the system will be pretty flexible. For the near future, small differences between ID and reservation information, such as the use of a middle initial instead of a full middle name or no middle name/initial at all, should not cause a problem for the passenger.” They also go on to explain that the point of this new rule is to be able to positively identify people who are on the FBI’s No Fly List.

You might be able to get away with a small difference in your name between your air ticket and your ID, but there’s no way to be 100% sure. If you’d rather not risk it, you’ll have to work directly with your airline to get the ticket changed. I’m not sure which carrier you’re flying, but most don’t allow name changes. In many cases this means you’ll be required to cancel your current ticket and rebook a new one under the proper name—which will be costly.

I’m sorry! I wish I had better news for you. The TSA is really cracking down, but hopefully it will lead to safer skies for everyone.

--Alison

Dear Editors,

I need some information about taking my dog with me on a flight to PA. Can you give me a site I can look at what I need to take the dog with me?

Thank you,

Lucinda

Hi Lucinda,

This is one of those situations that is very common among traveling pet owners. As such, you'd likely think there was a simple-to-understand, uniform policy across airlines that dealt with pet travel. Unfortunately, this is not the case and so there isn't one perfect resource I can direct you to for information. However, I will try my best to help you navigate various airline policies. For general information about pet travel, I recommend PetTravel.com.

You've probably heard that the airlines are charging for most extras these days, and taking your dog along is no exception. Plan on paying between $69 and $150 each way for your pet. The fee may also vary depending on whether your pet travels in the cabin with you or as cargo. In addition, your pet may need a certificate of health and there may also me restrictions on heat and weather temperatures that could affect your pet's health. Here is a list of links to the major domestic airlines' pet travel policies. If you've already booked your ticket, you can read up on the fees and requirements; if not, you may want to browse the various policies to find an airline that will work best for you and your barking travel companion.

AirTran Airways

American Airlines

Continental Airlines

Delta Airlines

Frontier

JetBlue

Midwest

US Airways

United

Dear Editors,

I am having a hard time trying to figure out which island in Hawaii to visit. My daughter and I want a relaxing vacation - mostly just hanging out near the ocean and pool. We don't want an itinerary, and we would like to stay in a hotel that has everything around it. We do not want to rent a car either. It also has to be a nice hotel that has a lot of amenities. We like our weather on the warmer side.  We would also like transportation to and from the airport.

Katherine

Hi Katherine,

I can tell that you're a traveler who knows what she wants, and you really can't go wrong with Hawaii! The beaches are pristine and the weather is phenomenal year round, so you can check those requirements off your list no matter where you choose to go.

I went to Travelocity's Team Hawaii with your question. Based on your preferences, they narrowed the options down to the two islands they thought you and your daughter would enjoy the most: Maui and Oahu. You'll be able to find a nice hotel with fantastic amenities on either of these beautiful islands, but you should choose based on how much of the island you want to explore - sans car!

Oahu's Waikiki is literally a playground with tons of activities within walking distance of many resorts. There are also shuttles and public transportation that you can use to get around the area since you don't want to rent a car. If you're looking for a lively area with great beaches, this is your place. (Check out Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki.)

If lazy days on the beach are what you're seeking, Maui would be a good choice for the two of you. Many travelers will tell you that Maui has the best beaches in the world! It's the perfect place to take refuge from the rest of the world, never leaving the resort, yet it's still large enough to find plenty of entertainment. The public transportation options aren't as plentiful as what you'll find on Oahu, so expect to a bit more seclusion if you choose Maui. (Check out Makena Beach and Golf Resort.)

Hope this helps you and your daughter choose the place that's best for you!

Happy Travels,

Jenn

Hi Katrina! I hope you're headed somewhere great on your October trip.

The short answer to your question is no, your son does not need his car seat, but it is probably a good idea. Since your son is three, you will be required to purchase a separate ticket for him. You may choose to use his car seat as a restraint for him but if you do, make sure it is FAA approved. Most car seats will meet these guidelines.

If you choose not to use your child's car seat in flight, you do have the option of purchasing a CARES harness. It is the only FAA-approved child restraint harness. Read more about it here.

There are other good reason to bring along your child's car seat. If you are planning on renting a car in your destination, you (and your child) may feel more comfortable in the seat you're both familiar with. On some airlines (like American Airlines) checking a car seat is free. Check with your carrier to find out their policy.

Hope that helps, and have a great trip!