Men's Journal's Blog, page 14

This Solar Panel Trickle Charger Is Just $28 on Amazon, and It's a Must-Have for Long Road Trips

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Why We Love This Deal

The dark side of owning a car jump starter? Its battery can die too. Plus, jump-starting a battery over and over again can degrade its lifespan. That’s why it’s sometimes nice to take a page out of the plant playbook and gather energy from the sun with a solar panel to keep your battery charged over time. 

The good news is that Amazon is selling one at 53% off: The Voltset 20W, 12V Solar Battery Trickle Charger Kit is now just $28, its all-time low price on Amazon.

Voltset 20W, 12V Solar Battery Trickle Charger Kit, $28 (was $60) on Amazon [image error] What Shoppers Should KnowMaximum Volts/Watts: 18V/20WConnector Type: SAE to SAEWorks With: The panel works with 12V batteries in Lead-Acid and Lithium-Ion categories, such as AGM, Gel, SLI, Marine Batteries, and LiFePO4, plus NiCd and NiMH batteries. Included Components: Solar Panel, Charger Controller, Adjustable Bracket, O-Rings, and Alligator ClipsBest Use Case: Ideal for long-term battery maintenance, keeping batteries charged during periods of disuse.

This set’s purpose is to keep your batteries charged, even with long-term down periods. It comes with a mounting bracket that affixes to cars and boats, allowing the panel to be tilted to find the perfect angling for the sun’s rays. From there, power trickles down to the battery, giving it extended health and life on the go.

The panel’s waterproof controller has a simple power in, power out structure with LED lights displaying when power is coming in and when batteries are full. Connect the controller to 12V Lead-Acid, Lithium-Ion, Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd), and Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries with either alligator clamps or o-rings for a slow trickle of power that keeps batteries active and charged over the long term.

Related: Jackery's Top-Selling Portable Power Station Is 40% Off Right Now, and It's 'the Best Investment You'll Ever Make'

What Shoppers Are Saying

One shopper detailed using the trickle charger with a dump trailer. “This 20W solar panel keeps the battery topped off so the trailer is ready to use at any moment. After a number of trailer dumps, putting this solar panel up, even on cloudy days, will have the battery back up to full charge in less than two days. It is an excellent little panel that does way better at maintaining the battery than I imagined.”

Another shopper revealed that the panel made them a very happy camper in their, well, camper. “This little sucker works great! Keeps my battery in my camper nice and charged. Plug and play!”

The Voltset 20W, 12V Solar Battery Trickle Charger Kit is now at its all-time Amazon low price of $28. Get yours while you can, because the deal won't stick around forever.

Shop More DealsMregb Power Bank Solar Charger, $30 (was $40) on AmazonSolperk 20W 12V Solar Battery Trickle Charger, $40 (was $66) on AmazonGykz 25W 12V Solar Battery Trickle Charger, $35 (was $39) on Amazon

New Balance’s Stylish 1906R Sneakers Are Now Over 40% Off

Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services.  If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Why We Love This Deal

Few brands are able to combine style and comfort the way that New Balance does, especially when it comes to sneakers. The retro-inspired 1906Rs are a perfect example of this blend, and they’re over 40% off on Champs’ website right now. 

The New Balance 1906Rs usually go for $155 without a sale, but with Champs’ Back to School event going on, you can get them for $90. Four of the seven colorways and all sizes are on sale, with the best discount offered for the Silver/White/Green and Yellow/Parchment options. 

New Balance 1906R, $90 (was $155) at Champs [image error] What Shoppers Should KnowUpper: Nubuck leather, MeshMidsole: Abzorb foamOutsole: N-ergyWeight: 13 ouncesSizes: 7.5-14

Taking inspiration from the original 1906 silhouette that dropped in 2006 as a running shoe, the 1906Rs have a classic, Y2K look that’s bolstered by reliable support (and a more everyday-friendly design). They start with a breathable upper that’s made using a blend of nubuck leather and mesh, which is joined with an Abzorb foam midsole, giving you impact absorption and compression resistance. They’re finished with New Balance’s in-house N-ergy outsole, providing even more impact absorption and ensuring a smooth stride with every step. 

Related: New Balance's Legendary 574 Sneakers Are All 25% Off Right Now

What Shoppers are Saying

The comfort you get is felt immediately, with one shopper saying, “Really comfortable! No break-in period. Fit true to size. Easy to wear for exercise or lifestyle.” Even first-time New Balance owners are impressed: “This is the first pair of New Balance sneakers that I bought. I had a friend recommend them to me, saying that they are very comfortable and stylish, and they are even better than I expected. Great first impression.”

You’ll also be impressed if you compare New Balance to other brands: “Trading my usual sleek running shoes for the New Balance 1906R was a leap, but one I'm thrilled I made. As someone who logs over 7,000 steps daily in NYC, plus 2.5 miles on the treadmill, comfort is key. These 1906Rs deliver incredibly, offering superior cushioning that makes long walks genuinely enjoyable. Beyond comfort, they're surprisingly stylish.”

If you head over to Champs, you can get the loveably retro and undisputably comfortable New Balance 1906Rs for $90. Since a few sizes are already out of stock, be sure to grab a pair soon before more sizes and colorways run out. 

Shop More DealsNew Balance 740s, $70 (was $110) at ChampsNew Balance 574s, $55 (was $100) at ChampsNew Balance WRPD Runner, $60 (was $150) at Champs

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Cole Haan's $88 Leather Wallet Is Just $30 Right Now, and Guys Say It's a 'No-Brainer'

Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services.  If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Why We Love This Deal

After throwing on your favorite pair of jeans, there are only three things left to do to get ready to leave the house: Pop your keys, phone, and your wallet in your pockets. Wallets are funny—guys will hang on to them far longer than any modern phone and may change keys several times before replacing theirs. If that describes you and your wallet is looking a little Costanza-esque, this slim wallet that Cole Haan is selling for 66% off its normal price is the perfect pickup.

Cole Haan Trifold Colored Edge Wallet, $30 (was $80) at Cole Haan The Cole Haan Trifold Colored Edge Wallet.

Courtesy of Cole Haan

[image error] What Shoppers Should KnowSize: 4.13-by-3.74-by-0.39 inchesColor Options: Black-Grey and Brown-NavyMaterial: LeatherStores: The Trifold Colored Edge Wallet stores 6 cards, cash, your ID, and more.

The Cole Haan Trifold Colored Edge Wallet is a true slim wallet with a sub-0.4-inch width while empty. On the interior, it has enough room for six cards and some cash, too.

These wallets are made from a durable leather, either black or brown, with the black having a grey edge and the brown having a dark navy edge and light tan stitching. All Trifold Colored Edge Wallets have a white Cole Haan logo on the front. Ultimately, it's a classic wallet style with stylish refinement.

Related: This 'Elegant' Seiko Chronograph Watch Is Now Under $170 at Walmart

What Shoppers Are Saying

At present, this wallet doesn’t have a ton of written reviews, though it does carry a five-star rating on Cole Haan’s site. The one shopper who did leave a written review said, “Just arrived in the mail, and this wallet is clean. Worth the money for sure, and getting it on sale like I did makes it a no-brainer.”

The Cole Haan Trifold Colored Edge Wallet is a steal at just $30, so don’t hesitate to buy one now because we can't see these being in stock for much longer at this price.

Shop More DealsCole Haan Trifold Wallet, $35 (was $88) at Cole HaanCole Haan Triboro Slimfold Wallet, $78 (was $40) at Cole HaanCole Haan Triboro Rucksack, $190 (was $378) at Cole Haan

Morgan Wallen Won’t Submit His #1 Album to the Grammys

The Grammys are considered the most prestigious award in music, and the list of winners includes some truly iconic and historic acts. Beyonce, Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder and John Williams are among some of the most decorated artists in the award's history, along with Taylor Swift, Ella Fitzgerald and Bruce Springsteen.

In most years, sustained chart success can result in nominations. The Recording Academy tends to reward those who stay popular throughout a given year, but one of 2025's most successful artists will not be represented at next year's ceremony.

Despite having America's No. 1 album for several months, the biggest artist in country music is opting out of the award ceremony.

What's Being Removed From Consideration?

According to HITS Daily Double, Morgan Wallen will not submit his album "I'm The Problem" for Grammy consideration. "I'm the Problem" has been a massive success, breaking records as it continues to live at the top of the Billboard 200.

Viral sensations like "Kpop Demon Hunters" and established stars like Bad Bunny, MGK, Justin Bieber and the Jonas Brothers have all slotted behind Wallen's album on the charts this year.

Wallen is taking the move even further, and won't submit any music for the awards. That includes hit singles like "Just In Case" and "What I Want" featuring Tate McRae.

The decision will only affect Morgan, however, and others those credited on the songs can submit them for consideration.

What's Behind Wallen's Decision?

According to Billboard, the country star has never been considered for the award in the way that other country artists have, despite Wallen's inarguable success and popularity.

The decision to withdraw from Grammy consideration could be a reaction to perceived disrespect from the Academy. Wallen has never won a Grammy in his career, and he has only been nominated for his work as a featured artist alongside Post Malone.

Wallen was disqualified for consideration for the Academy of Country Music Awards and the Country Music Association Awards after a video in which he used a racial slur.

Those bans have since been lifted, and Wallen has won at both award shows in recent years. He was named Entertainer of the Year at the CMA Awards in 2024 - the show's most prestigious honor.

Wallen was never formally banned from consideration at the Grammys, but his presence at the award show is notable when compared to his peers in chart history. Wallen has spent 40 weeks at the top of the Billboard 200, a feat that only eight other artists in history have accomplished.

All eight have won multiple Grammy awards.

Sam’s Club Sleek and Super-Handy Wire Basket Set Is Perfect For Organizing Produce

Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services.  If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Storage and organization solutions are taking over the internet, and for good reason. Everyone wants a tidy-looking and functional pantry and kitchen to make life a bit more orderly. There are oodles of options out there for containers, baskets and bins made for canned goods, boxed and bagged food and snacks.

One thing we love is having a system for storing fresh produce. Whether that’s onions, shallots, winter squash, apples, oranges, lemons, limes or potatoes, produce baskets are in. And this Member’s Mark Wire Basket Set from Sam’s Club is as functional as it is stylish. The set of 2 retails for $24.78 and is available in-warehouse and online. 

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Member's Mark Wire Basket Set Is $24.78 at Sam's Club

The sturdy baskets are available in black, blue and green, each with a wooden top, making them stackable. The large basket measures at 11 x 6.5-inches and the small measures 9 x 4.5-inches. They’re made with a durable powder coat finish, making them food safe. They can tidy up the pantry, keeping produce items neatly arranged.

Related: Sam’s Club’s Highly-Rated Over-The-Door Pantry Organizer Has Shoppers Calling It Their ‘Smartest Purchase’

We think these baskets could also be useful as a kitchen countertop piece, showing off your fresh fruit and vegetables or housing faux versions for a seasonal look.

Whether you’ve just moved into a new place and are starting from scratch organization-wise or rearranging an old setup, we think these baskets can add to the aesthetic and serve as added storage, however you decide to use them.

Related: Target's Carved Edge Wood Bowl Is Perfect for Storing Fall Produce

Volkswagen Uses Subscription Plan for Owners to Unlock This Powerful Feature

German carmaker Volkswagen introduced a subscription model for owners of some of their electric vehicles.

Volkswagen owners in the UK who purchase an eligible vehicle in the company's ID.3 series, could opt to sign up for a subscription to unlock the car's full horse power.

According to the company, the "optional" add-on will cost new car owners £16.50 per month. However, there are annual and lifetime options that could save drivers a bit of coin.

It is important to note that the lifetime plan will stay with the car if sold, Auto Express reported.

"Historically many petrol and diesel vehicles have been offered with engines of the same size, but with the possibility of choosing one with more potency," a spokesperson for VW told BBC, adding that the additional cost is "nothing new."

The company explained that by offering car owners a subscription plan, drivers could change their mind at any time.

"If customers wish to have an even sportier driving experience, they now have an option to do so, within the life of the vehicle, rather than committing from the outset with a higher initial purchase price. The car is presented on the configurator with [201bhp], with the option made very clear to customers," the spokesperson added.

Volkswagen's new update was met with criticism as social media users voiced their opinions.

"Can’t wait for the 'brake subscription.' $50/month if you want to stop safely," one person sarcastically wrote on X. "That should be illegal," another added. "Can't wait to challenge my friend to a drag race and cancel his subscription right before we go," a third joked.

One of San Francisco’s Oldest, and Most Beloved, Thai Restaurants Is Closing

It’s the end of an era for diners in San Francisco. After more than 50 years, one of the city’s most beloved—and oldest—Thai restaurants has announced that it is permanently closing its doors.

The San Francisco Chronicle reports that Khan Toke Thai House, a staple of the city’s Richmond District since the 1970s, has suddenly shuttered its doors. Guests learned of the eatery’s closing courtesy of a sign that was hung in the restaurant’s window. The restaurant’s phone numbers have all also been disconnected.

Related: Noodles & Company Is Closing at Least 17 Restaurants This Year

As recently as last year, Khan Toke Thai House was named one of the city’s “Best Classic Restaurants” by the San Francisco Chronicle. Part of the restaurant’s charm was its old-school rules and traditions, which the Chronicle described as follows:

"Guests are reminded to remove their shoes before entering Khan Toke Thai House, one of the city's first Thai restaurants. The restaurant is a place of celebration and ritual, where you sit on the carpeted floor—tables have spacious nooks for your legs underneath, while soothing strings vibrate through the air.”

Khan Toke Thai House, a Richmond District staple in operation since the 1970s, has permanently closed. https://t.co/EsdLhonTPM

— San Francisco Chronicle (@sfchronicle) August 18, 2025

Part of what makes the restaurant so iconic is what one critic described as its Thai temple-like design. The main attraction, of course, is the vast menu of fresh dishes. An original time crepe filled with Thai cream, minced shrimp and pork, tofu, and shredded coconut; deep fried chicken wings marinated with lemongrass; and a variety of fresh curries and noodles.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Khan Toke Thai House (@khantokethaisf)

 On Tuesday, the restaurant posted a photo to its Instagram page, where it explained its departure—and left the door open for a return.

"After much consideration, we’ve made the difficult decision to downsize our restaurant as our current lease has come to an end," wrote the restaurant. "Combined with today’s economic challenges, we’ve realized this location is no longer the right fit for our future. However, this change allows us to refocus on serving you a wider variety of foods in a more efficient setting. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye to this space, we’re excited for this new chapter and the opportunity to continue sharing our passion for food in a fresh way."

So while the restaurant may be gone—it sounds like it might be a very temporary situation.

Expert Issues Clear Warning For Mexico

The United States Department of State recently issued a Level 2 travel advisory for the entire country of Mexico. While that advisory simply reminds travelers to exercise increased caution when traveling south of the border, one expert has issued a pretty clear warning to anyone thinking of traveling to Mexico.

Mexico is the most common international tourist destination for American travelers, due in large part to its proximity to the United States, with more than 30 million Americans visiting Mexico in 2022, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office.

While the vast majority of Americans who travel to Mexico experience no issues or threats to their safety, one travel expert has recently issued a pretty clear warning about some areas to avoid while in Mexico.

U.S. Issues Travel Advisory For Mexico

Earlier this month, the United States updated its travel advisory for Mexico, issuing a Level 2 travel advisory for the entire country due to "terrorism, crime, and kidnapping," reminding travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting the country.

"Many violent crimes take place in Mexico. They include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery," the State Department wrote in the travel advisory. "There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico."

While this might sound like a serious and concerning warning, it's not one of the more severe travel advisories the United States Department of State has issued.

The State Department has two more severe categories for its database of travel advisories, with Level 3 advisories warning travelers to "reconsider travel" and Level 4 advisories warning travelers to simply "do not travel" to that destination.

Expert Issues a Clear Warning

While the State Department's travel advisory is just a Level 2 advisory, one expert warns that not all parts of Mexico are the same, and there are some areas that travelers should avoid.

Mike Ballard, who is the director of intelligence at international security firm Global Guardian, recently spoke with USA Today to offer his expertise on traveling south of the border. He issued a pretty clear warning for travelers, urging them to stay close to the popular tourist destinations and away from cartel activity.

"You still want to avoid those areas that are hotly contested by the cartels or are under outright total control of the cartels," Ballard told USA Today. "There are certain states within Mexico that are really hot zones for this, but those typically are not your prime vacation spots."

While most of the tourist hotspots are safely away from cartel activity, there is one vacation spot travelers should avoid: coastal Acapulco.

"It's in one of the most dangerous states, Guerrero in Mexico, and it's not a place that I would go personally," said Ballard.

Guerrero has an exceptionally high crime rate and a homicide rate of 37.5 per 100,000 people in 2024 due in large part to cartel activity in the area.

U.S. State Department Agrees

While Mexico as a whole is under just a Level 2 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department, there are certain states in Mexico that have been hit with more severe travel warnings, including Guerrero.

The U.S. Department of State has issued Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisories for the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas.

The State Department has also issued Level 3 travel advisories for the states of Baja California, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, and Sonora.

Many of these states are at increased risk for cartel violence, as Ballard warned.

Mexico is Still Generally Safe

That said, it is still generally safe to travel to Mexico, as long as you stay in the tourist spots and avoid putting yourself in dangerous situations.

"We're not really seeing a particular uptick (for violent crimes) in some of the tourist spots," Ballard said.

From my own experience traveling to Mexico multiple times over the past several years, places like Cancún, Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen generally feel quite safe and typically have a strong police presence.

Still, there are things you can do to make sure you are as safe as possible during your travels

Use registered taxis or rideshare apps for your travelsAvoid traveling at night outside major tourist areasBe aware of your surroundings and don't be overly distracted by your phone when in publicAvoid wearing flashy jewelry or expensive designer items

It's also worth keeping an eye on the latest travel advisories from the State Department before traveling to Mexico, as things can always change.

Expert Weighs in on U.S. Travel 'Warning'

Earlier this month, the United States Department of State issued an ominous-sounding travel advisory for the country of Mexico – the most common international tourist destination for Americans. Now, one expert is weighing in on the true dangers of traveling south of the border.

The travel advisory, which was officially issued by the State Department on Aug. 12, warns of terrorism, crime, and kidnapping in Mexico, urging travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting Mexico.

Though the language of the travel advisory sounds undeniably concerning, that doesn't mean you need to cancel your travel plans just yet.

United States Travel Advisories

The United States Department of State has a rather extensive database of travel advisories giving travelers all the information they need to stay safe while abroad.

These travel advisories vary in severity, ranging from Level 1 to Level 4, with Level 4 being the most severe. A Level 1 advisory reminds travelers to simply "exercise normal precautions," while a Level 2 advisory warns travelers to "exercise increased caution."

A Level 3 travel advisory warns travelers to "reconsider travel" to that destination, while a Level 4 travel advisory, meanwhile, warns travelers simply "do not travel" to that destination.

The United States currently has active Level 4 travel advisories for 21 different countries across the United States.

Level 2 Travel Advisory Issued for Mexico

While "terrorism, crime, and kidnapping" might sound quite severe, the travel advisory recently issued for Mexico was just a Level 2 travel advisory, warning prospective travelers simply to "exercise increased caution."

However, that doesn't mean there aren't still real risks to traveling to Mexico.

"Many violent crimes take place in Mexico. They include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery," the State Department wrote in the travel advisory. "There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico."

It's also worth noting that while the country itself has been issued a Level 2 travel advisory, there are portions of the country that have been issued more severe travel advisories.

The U.S. Department of State has issued Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisories for the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas, as well as Level 3 travel advisories for the states of Baja California, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, and Sonora.

Expert Weighs In

During a recent interview with USA Today, security expert Mike Ballard, who is the director of intelligence at international security firm Global Guardian, explained that despite the newly updated travel advisory, the risks of traveling to Mexico are about the same as they've been, and the vast majority of Americans face no issues while traveling abroad.

"Ninety-nine percent of (our clients') visits have no issue, and it's probably a similar percentage for your average American that's visiting Mexico," Ballard told USA Today. "But, you know, I would just say you want to maintain situational awareness." 

Ballard believes that the new travel advisory is due to the fact that the U.S. government recently designated of Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations rather than just simple criminals. However, Ballard doesn't think this changes much for travelers, though it does change things for those involved in the cartels.

"The penalties obviously are going to be quite a bit stiffer, and it's a bigger deal to be involved and to be found guilty of aiding and abetting a terrorist organization than a drug trafficking or arms trafficking organization," he said. "So, I think this move was really to maintain consistency. If we're labeling the leading drug cartels in Mexico as terrorist organizations, then we probably should include a risk and an advisory about terrorist groups and terrorism in Mexico."

Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico?

While all international travel carries some level of inherent risk, Ballard believes that traveling to Mexico is generally safe – as long as you stick to the tourist locations.

"We're not really seeing a particular uptick (for violent crimes) in some of the tourist spots," Ballard said.

From experience, areas like Cancun, Mexico City, or Playa del Carmen generally feel quite safe with a strong and consistent police presence.

If you do choose to travel to Mexico, the State Department has a few tips to follow.

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. Review the Country Security Report for Mexico. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information for Mexico.Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Traveler's Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.Follow the Department of State on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

Above all, be sure to use common sense when you travel and avoid putting yourself in dangerous situations. It's also worth noting that these travel advisories can change, so make sure to stay up to date on the latest travel information.

Delta and United Sued for Selling Window Seats Without Windows

Passengers who thought they were paying extra for a coveted window seat on Delta or United flights are now taking the airlines to court. Reuters reported that class action lawsuits filed this week claim the carriers sold seats labeled as “window” only for travelers to find themselves pressed against a blank wall.

The Lawsuits at a Glance

The proposed class actions were filed against United in San Francisco federal court and Delta in Brooklyn federal court. Each case seeks millions of dollars in damages for more than a million passengers, accusing the airlines of charging premium fees for seats that did not deliver what was promised.

The complaints point to certain Boeing 737, Boeing 757, and Airbus A321 planes where window placements are blocked by air conditioning ducts, electrical conduits, or other components. Unlike Alaska and American, which flag these seat quirks during booking, Delta and United allegedly fail to disclose them—even when charging tens or hundreds of dollars more.

Why It Matters to Travelers

For many passengers, window seats are more than a view. These seats come with many benefits, depending on the passenger. Travelers choose window seats for a variety of reasons, and research shows that window seats can even have health benefits.

The benefits of window seats on an airplane include: 

Helps Prevent Motion Sickness Provides a stable horizon for your eyes, reducing sensory conflict with your inner ear. Best over the wings, where the plane’s motion is least noticeable. Reduced Germ Exposure Keeps you away from aisle traffic where passengers and crew walk by. Lowers chances of contact with airborne particles and germs. Better Rest and Comfort A solid wall to lean on for sleeping. More control over light thanks to the window shade. Fewer interruptions from seatmates climbing in and out. Psychological Benefits Views outside can ease anxiety or fear of flying. Natural light exposure helps regulate circadian rhythm on long flights. Practical Advantages Window seats are often quieter, especially compared to aisle seats. Extra sense of personal space, as you won’t be bumped by carts or passengers.

Lawsuits argue that travelers pay extra for reasons. The plaintiffs say they would never have chosen, much less paid more for, these seats had they known the truth.

Lawyer Carter Greenbaum, who filed the cases, said in a statement that relying on third-party tools like SeatGuru does not excuse an airline from misrepresenting its product. “A company can’t misrepresent the nature of the products it sells and then rely on third-party reviews to say a customer should have known,” he noted.

The Bigger Picture for Airlines

Ancillary revenue—fees for seat selection, baggage, upgrades, and more—is a critical source of income for airlines trying to keep base fares low. But transparency in how these fees are marketed is increasingly under scrutiny. With lawsuits like these, carriers could face pressure to disclose hidden seat limitations and rethink how they label premium seating options.

Delta, based in Atlanta, and United, based in Chicago, have not yet responded to the complaints. For now, passengers might want to double-check seating charts before shelling out for a view that may not exist.

Related: What Airport Agents Found in This Traveler’s Bag Could Wreck U.S. Farms