Flight Crew: How to prevent TSA pilfering

Q I'll be returning from Paris with mustard, jams and cosmetics. Should I be worried about pilfering if the Transportation Security Administration opens my bag?

A If you're concerned, put together an itemized list and take a photo of your open luggage for proof. If you notice any missing items, report your concerns to the airline's baggage services and the TSA's claims department.

Q We'll be visiting Portsmouth, New Hampshire, for a weekend. We're taking a whale-watching tour, but what else should we do?

A Spend time wandering around and having a drink in lovely Market Square. There's also Strawbery Banke, an outdoor history museum by the water, with 10 historic houses. Nearby Prescott Park has beautiful gardens and holds a summer arts and theater festival. Another fabulous historic home is the Warner House.

Q Where can you get last-minute flight or room deals a few days before flying?

A If you have a preferred airline or hotel, sign up for an email newsletter to get last-minute fare specials. If you're in the market for what's known as "distressed" inventory -- fares or rooms that probably won't be sold and are aggressively discounted -- try Hotwire or Priceline.

-- The Washington Post