People make mistakes. Airlines' ticket agents are no exception, though you occasionally meet one who believes in their own infallibility. (They are usually known by their nasally, condescending tone). But what do you do when you know you have been wronged by either the airline or a ticket agency?

I, admittedly, am a paranoid traveler. the day of departure, I can be found double and triple checking my ticket. Usually, this proves to be a waste of time and energy. However, on a couple of occasions, I was actually able to avoid problems by catching them early. Once my ticket was incomplete, and another time my transaction had been completely canceled without my knowledge. Rechecking you reservations and tickets before you leave home is always better than having to deal with a ticketing problem at the airport.

It is also important to know you rights. I wrote a post before about this very thing. In a way, buying a ticket is like signing a contract. There are rules and regulations that each side must follow. Find a copy of these on the airlines website and print them out (usually known as "terms of service"). If a problem arises, whipping out the fine print will almost surely get you further than weeping or yelling.

The rise of online traveler agents like Travelocity and Expedia has led to a whole new set of problems. A recent article on CNN's Travel Troubleshooter shows that a little leg work can solve a problem and lead to a refund.