Also, read the Air Travel Consumer Report to find out which airlines have the most delays, lost luggage incidents and consumer complaints.

It is always a good practice to record all travel interactions during your trip: the names of everyone with whom you worked, along with where and when the conversations occurred.

When Avoidance Fails
In the unfortunate event that something does go wrong, and you need to file a complaint, you'll need to know who to call. It is still a good idea to check the resources above, to be sure there are grounds for your complaint, before proceeding. Once you have determined that you do, you should contact the proper organization.

Be sure to state your complaint clearly in writing, and include copies of tickets, receipts, and any other documentation you have. Make sure to mention what you perceive the resolution to be; and try not to be entirely negative. If you are still unable to resolve your complaint, contact your local or state consumer protection office, the city, county, or state's attorney for additional help.

The Airlines
If you have a complaint about service you received from a particular airline, or airline service issues, such as lost baggage, ticketing, denied boarding, etc., try going to the source. Contact the airline's consumer office at its corporate headquarters; they may be able to resolve your problem. If this is unsuccessful, contact:

The Aviation Consumer Protection Division
202-366-2220 or e-mail airconsumer@ost.dot.gov.

If you have a specific complaint regarding discriminatory treatment or other civil rights infringements, you can direct your issue to a specific government agency. Visit the Aviation Consumer Protection Division for more information.

Hotels and Car Rentals
If you have a complaint about treatment you received at a hotel or when renting a car, handle it in the same way you would if it were any other business -- call the Better Business Bureau in your area. You can also file a complaint online with them. When you submit your complaint, it will be forwarded to the appropriate local Better Business Bureau, or to the national office of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, for handling. You will receive an email receipt for your records.

Travel Agents
Most travel agencies are legitimate businesses, which are extremely helpful when planning a trip. However, there are always horror stories about agencies that open for a week, take thousands of dollars from unsuspecting clients, only to completely disappear a week later. While cases like this are rare, you should be aware of them. If you have complaints about a particular agency or flight, you can write or call The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). This organization also has a free publication called "Avoiding Travel Problems," which you can request at number below, and their web site invites complaints from consumers.

Credit Cards
If you purchased airline tickets with your credit card, or charged a hotel room or car, always check the bill carefully, particularly when traveling abroad. If you cancel reservations, and are promised a full or partial refund, be certain that your account was not billed. If you do see an error on your bill, notify the company in writing within 60 days. They must respond within 30 days to your letter, and they then have 90 days to credit your account, if there was an error made. If you are not satisfied with your company's response, you can call the Federal Trade Commission at (202-326-2222) for American Express, or the bank that issued your card for VISA/MasterCard.

If All Else Fails
Take your complaint to small claims court. You don't need a lawyer and it's much easier than filing a lawsuit. Often, you can take on hotels and even airlines in their operating jurisdiction. Visit your county office of consumer affairs for further information