06.29.26 Travel Booking Basics / Online Shopping: Spotlight On Dark Patterns

2026-06-29

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Clark’s first business was a travel agency and he specialized in saving his clients money. Travel costs are challenging now, with airlines facing higher fuel expenses and travelers paying the price. Clark shares his back-to-basics strategy for finding affordable trips, including why flexibility is your greatest money-saving tool. Learn why Clark lets the deal determine the destination, how shoulder-season airfare pricing can create opportunities for savings, and why being a "free agent" when booking flights can help you see more of the world for less. Also, Clark explains the growing problem of "dark patterns" online—those annoying popups, misleading buttons, and sneaky subscription tactics designed to manipulate your decisions. While many of these practices aren't illegal, they are deceptive and can lead to unwanted purchases and recurring charges if you're caught unaware. Know what to watch for and how to avoid getting tricked into spending money you never intended to spend.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the June 29, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

Clark Smart Travel: Segment 1
Ask Clark: Segment 2
Dark Patterns On The Lit Web: Segment 3
Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

How To Beat Summer Sticker Shock and Travel the ‘Clark Howard Way’
Follow Clark Howard’s #1 Rule To Travel Cheap
Best Travel Credit Cards: How To Find the Perfect Fit for Your Spending
How Does Booking Travel Through a Credit Card Rewards Program Compare?
3 Reasons You Should Never Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room
Dark patterns on the web are designed to manipulate you – why aren’t they all illegal?
Best Free Password Managers: 10 Top Picks - Clark Howard
How To Create and Use Passkeys - Clark Howard
Safe Browser Alternatives That Promise Not To Track You
NYT - Her Life Savings Mysteriously Disappeared After a Systems Glitch
Why You Need Paper Evidence of Your Financial Accounts