Magazine: Consumer Reports
Article: Air To Spare
Author: Unknown

Have you ever went to open a bag of chips, and found the bag half empty before you even opened it? This problem has been striking consumers lately. People have been noticing that the boxes may be bigger, but the amount in the box is still the same.

This article gave many reasons why this is happening. They give reasons such as..

• Manufactures can't fill up the bag too close to the top, because if it gets stuck near the seal it could result in an improper seal.
• If they fill up a chip bag to the top, the chips will break more than if there is air in the bag to protect it.
• If a product such as eye drops is in a container, they need the extra card board to keep it from sliding around.

These are some of the excuses that consumers have been given for not getting as much of a product as they would have liked. Because the law gives manufacturers a little wiggle room, they intend to take as much as they can.

Magazine:Consumer Reports
Article: Planning a trip?
Author: Unknown

During this econonmy, going on vacations can be very expensive. This article gave 10  useful ways to save on your next trip.

1. Change your itenerary and save- by taking a flight at night or early in the morning, you may save money compared to afternoon flights.
2. Check airlines own web sites-instead of going through a travel agent, try to buy directly from the airline. This saves the transaction fees charged by a third party.
3. Fly early to arrive on time- a flight between 6 am- 9am are most likely to arrive on time.
4. Dont over pack- make sure that your bag doesn't go over the weight limit so you don't have to pay and extra fee.
5. Negotiate with hotels- call directly to the hotel, you might be able to bargain better.
6. Use a travel agent for your cruise- they are very difficult to handle yourself.
7. Skip the shore-to-shore call-use an email to comunicate if necassary.
8. Question car rental insurance- you might be able to use your car insurance for your rental.
9. Always pay by credit card- it will help you dispute any discrepancies.
10. Take advantage of discounts- many discounts are offered for children, seniors, students and military members, ask about them.

These tips can help you save money on your next trip. Make sure you ask for any discounts you can from travel agencies. It will sure help you plan easier!