Consumer Catch-up: Airlines restrict smart bags, Record holiday travel, Children's pajama sets recalled

Friday, December 22, 2017
Michael Finney and 7 On Your Side have consumer stories you should know about for Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017.
Michael Finney and 7 On Your Side have consumer stories you should know about for Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017.

More airlines restrict use of "smart bags"

Two new airlines are adding their names to the growing list of companies banning "smart bags" in checked luggage.

Both United Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines updated their posted policies for checked bags.

United said passengers must remove any spare lithium batteries from checked luggage. Next year, passengers must also take out lithium batteries that are part of the bags themselves - sometimes known as "smart bags." If the batteries cannot be removed, United said they will not be allowed on board.

Hawaiian's newly-updated policy is similar. Non-removable batteries will be banned on flights. Bags with removable batteries may be carried on, as long as the bags are turned off during flight.

The ban for both United and Hawaiian goes into effect Jan. 15, 2018.

Record number of travelers this holiday season

AAA is expecting a record number of travelers this holiday season. The organization said more than 107 million Americans will travel by train, car, or airplane this year, a 3.1% increase from 2016.

The forecast marks the ninth consecutive year of rising year-end holiday travel.

If you're planning to hit the road, the best time to travel is during the early mornings or after rush hour commute.

If your schedule allows it, traveling on the holiday itself is usually a little less busy.

Children's pajamas recalled

Children's pajama sets, sold exclusively at Bass Pro Shops, are under recall.

Wohali Outdoors is recalling almost 27,000 of the three-piece pajama sets. The pajamas do not meet federal flammability requirements.

The recall involves 100% polyester sets of a printed long-sleeved shirt, pants, and coordinating solid color robe. No injuries have been reported as a result of the recall.

Customers should contact Wohali Outdoors to receive a prepaid shipping label to return the pajamas. In exchange, they will get a full refund in the form of a Bass Pro Shops gift card.

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