Overview

• The EU Commission is investigating airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air for extra fees on hand luggage, which may violate EU transparency rules.
• Turkey has introduced fines for passengers who unbuckle seatbelts or open overhead compartments before planes fully stop, citing safety concerns.
• Montenegro has implemented fines of up to €1,000 for tourists using unauthorized paths to visit landmarks like Kotor's fortress.
• The Netherlands is considering a VAT increase on accommodations from 9% to 21% in 2026, raising concerns about the impact on tourism costs.
• Consumer advocates are pushing for clearer rules on airline fees, while travelers explore cost-saving strategies such as house-sitting and volunteering.