**Southwest Bans Popular Power Banks: Expert's Summer Flight Savings**

Planning a summer trip? A major US airline just changed its rules for a common travel item. Meanwhile, a travel expert reveals how to find cheaper flights. Southwest Airlines has banned certain portable chargers and power banks. The new rule forbids any with "non-removable" lithium batteries in checked luggage. You can still carry them in your cabin bag. The airline says this is a safety precaution. "Summer airfare doesn't have to break your budget," says travel expert Katy Nastro. She advises travelers to be flexible. Flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday is often cheaper than weekend travel. Nastro also recommends setting price alerts. Use airline apps or travel websites to monitor fares for your desired route. If the price drops, you can book immediately. Another key tip is to search for flights one traveler at a time. Booking websites sometimes show higher prices for groups, even if seats are available at a lower rate. Searching solo can reveal these cheaper individual seats. Finally, consider nearby airports. A short drive to a different airport could lead to significant savings.