20.9 C
New York
Monday, March 30, 2026
Home Blog

Airports update arrival time tips amid TSA shortage from DHS shutdown

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Airports are still recovering from the fallout of the DHS shutdown that resulted in a shortage of transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers — and some are now changing their advisory messages to travelers.

John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Ohio is cautioning passengers to arrive just 1.5 hours before their flights depart.

“Early morning travel PSA, 90 minutes before departure is the sweet spot,” the airport posted on X on Thursday.

TSA OFFICERS LOSE HOMES, CAN’T PAY MEDICAL BILLS, CAN’T AFFORD EASTER BASKETS FOR THEIR CHILDREN

“Showing up too early creates those first-wave lines,” the post also said. “Even when lines stretch to ticketing, waits are usually [about] 45 mins.”

The airport also attached a graphic of suggested arrival times for flights starting at 5 p.m. through 12 p.m.

Some airports are updating their travel advisories, asking flight passengers not to arrive “too early” for their flights. (Mike Stewart/AP Photo)

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas wrote on X it’s expecting over 30,000 travelers to be processed by TSA on Monday.

“There is no need to line up more than 4 hours before your flight, as this causes congestion in the lines for those flying out sooner,” the airport wrote.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

“Arriving 2.5 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights is our recommendation,” it added.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is still advising passengers to arrive at least four hours early.

TSA agents at Airport

“There is no need to line up more than 4 hours before your flight, as this causes congestion in the lines for those flying out sooner,” said one airport in Texas.  (Valerie Plesch/Getty Images)

About 40% of TSA workers in Atlanta have called out amid the shutdown, the Department of Homeland Security told FOX 5.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

Some TSA officers at Hartsfield–Jackson told Fox News on Monday morning that they’ve started receiving paychecks after working without pay since DHS funding lapsed on Valentine’s Day.

People wait in line to pass through security at George Bush Intercontinental Airport

Some TSA officers have shared that they have begun seeing paychecks after President Donald Trump issued an executive order for emergency pay on Friday. (Danielle Villasana/Getty Images)

Officers shared that they have begun seeing paychecks after President Donald Trump issued an executive order for emergency pay on Friday.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Baltimore-Washington International Airport posted on X on Monday that there were “minimal wait times at each checkpoint.”

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

The airport still cautioned passengers on Sunday “to arrive 3 hours before scheduled departure.”

Fox News’ Claudia Kelly-Bazan, as well as The Associated Press, contributed to this report.

Popular cruise line fixes noises complaints by adding feature to connecting cabins

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Royal Caribbean ships have found a way to address one of the most common passenger complaints about connecting rooms on cruises.

Two of the company’s vessels, Icon and Star of the Seas, feature exterior doors to connecting cabins — replacing the traditional interior door, as Royal Caribbean Blog reported.

Guests are able to close off the outer hallway doors while leaving their main cabin doors open or unlocked, making it easier to move between rooms without relying on a shared interior door.

THOUSANDS OF CRUISE TRAVELERS HIT WITH ABRUPT VACATION PLAN CHANGES: ‘APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE’

The change is designed to give travelers more flexibility and privacy.

“I’ve stayed in connecting rooms before, but there’s a major difference with them on Star of the Seas. Instead of a connecting door inside the room, [there’s a] feature that I think is pure genius,” said the blog, which is not affiliated with the company itself. 

Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class ships, Icon and Star of the Seas, are eplacing connecting cabin interior doors with two exterior doors. (iStock)

“Royal Caribbean added a pair of outside doors to solve a problem connecting cabins traditionally had — of the interior common door being flimsy and not very soundproof,” the blog went on.

“The idea with these rooms is you can close off the outside doors and then keep your primary cabin door open or unlocked so you can easily go between each.”

MIDDLE EAST CRUISE NIGHTMARE DEEPENS AS IRAN AIRSTRIKES LEAVE PASSENGERS STRANDED

Royal Caribbean’s Icon class is the cruise line’s newest generation of ships, which includes Icon and Star of the Seas. Introduced in 2024 and 2025, the mega-ships combine resort-style amenities and family-focused neighborhoods, the cruise line shared with Fox News Digital. 

The interior common door [had been] flimsy and not very soundproof.”

Connecting cabins have long been a popular option for families and groups who want separate sleeping areas but still need easy access between rooms.

Thin interior doors, however, plus a lack of sound insulation have made them less appealing for some travelers.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

The doors still require a room key or wearable device to access, allowing guests to control when the connection is open or closed, the blog said.

Royal Caribbean scraps plans for 20 voyages

The update aims to offer travelers greater flexibility and enhanced privacy. (iStock)

For travelers, especially families, the update could make connecting rooms a more attractive option without sacrificing privacy or quiet.

‘Constant crying and screaming’

The issue of noise between connecting cabins has been a frequent complaint among cruise passengers.

In a Reddit thread discussing adjoining rooms on cruises, one user described constant disruptions from neighboring guests.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

“I have a balcony room with a connecting door to a family with three kids, and it’s just constant crying and screaming at all hours,” the user wrote. 

“I can’t sleep.”

Royal Caribbean cancels planned destinations

The change makes connecting rooms more appealing while improving privacy and reducing noise, a common complaint among passengers. (iStock)

Others said the experience has made them avoid booking connecting rooms altogether.

“The connecting room doors suck. I will never book one again,” another commenter wrote.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Some noted the rooms work well only when traveling with family or friends. 

“They are great when you actually want the connecting pair,” one user wrote. “Terrible if you don’t.”

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Icon of the Seas launched in January 2024 as the first Icon-class ship, featuring eight neighborhoods, seven pools and a suspended infinity pool. 

Based in Miami, it includes more than 40 dining venues.

Star of the Seas debuted in August 2025 from Port Canaveral. 

The vessel features eight neighborhoods, more than 68 dining options and an iconic waterpark. It sails 7-night Caribbean itineraries with stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Lionel Richie warns rising stars to embrace fans after bizarre Chappell Roan incident

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Lionel Richie knows the fame game can be a challenge, and issued a warning to rising celebrities after Chappell Roan faced backlash following a negative fan encounter. 

During a sit-down with his son-in-law, Joel Madden, the Good Charlotte frontman admitted he hadn’t once heard his father-in-law complain about fans approaching him in public. 

“I was invisible once,” Richie explained, before acknowledging that he has a difficult time ignoring fans. “They want to say something to you. And you can see it on their face. They want to say something. And for me to ignore them, would be the worst.”

RIO MAYOR BANS CHAPPELL ROAN FROM PERFORMING IN HIS CITY AFTER FAN INCIDENT CONTROVERSY

Lionel Richie warned celebrities about valuing fan support. (C Brandon/Redferns/Getty images)

He added, “Sometimes you meet the person you idolize the most, and you’re sorry you met them. 

The “All Night Long” singer said, “I made a promise to myself – I’m never going to be that. Never.”

Richie noted that star status isn’t for everyone.

“The thing that happens a lot of times is, I tell people when they get into the business, there’s one thing you didn’t calculate,” he said. “I hope you like people.

“Because if you don’t like people, here’s how it’s going to sound. You spend the first half of your career going, ‘Look at me, look at me, look at me, look at me, look at me.’ And then you finally get famous. ‘Don’t look at me. Don’t look at me. Don’t look at me.’”

He added, “The universe gave you what you asked for. Now what is it about people that you don’t like, or you want to be famous and rich without the people? It doesn’t work like that. You have to be able to engage.”

While in town last week to perform at Lollapalooza Brazil, the “Pink Pony Club” singer allegedly directed security to scold his daughter after she spotted Chappell having breakfast at the hotel in São Paulo, according to professional soccer star Jorginho Frello.

LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

Chappell, 28, addressed the incident on Instagram stories and later denied the fan encounter after the “very upsetting” situation caught the eye of Rio de Janeiro Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere.

In a statement shared on X, Cavaliere said that Chappell was no longer welcome to perform in his city.

“I mean that as long as I’m in charge of our city — this young lady @ChappellRoan will never perform at Todo Mundo No Rio,” he wrote in a statement translated from Portuguese. I doubt that Shakira would do that! By the way, @FrelloJorginho, your little one is already the guest of honor from the organization in May!”

The “Good Luck, Babe!” singer jumped on social media Sunday morning to explain her “half of the story” while lying in bed.

“I didn’t even see. I didn’t even see a woman and a child. No one came up to me. No one bothered me,” the musician confided in her followers while lying in bed. “I was just sitting at breakfast in my hotel, I think these people were staying at the hotel as well.”

“I did not ask the security guard to go up and talk to this mother and child. They did not come up to me. They weren’t doing anything.”

Chappell Roan walks red carpet

Chappell Roan was banned from performing in Rio after a negative fan encounter went viral online. (Dimitrios Kambouris)

She added, “I do not hate people who are fans of my music. I do not hate children. Like, that is crazy.”

“I am sorry to the mother and child that someone was assuming something, that you would do something and that if you felt uncomfortable, that makes me really sad. You did not deserve that.” 

Jorginho, a midfielder for Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club Flamengo, wrote on Instagram stories that his family went through a “very upsetting situation” involving Chappell prior to her Lollapalooza Brazil set.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER

He claimed online that his 11-year-old daughter was reprimanded by Chappell’s security for looking at the singer.

“The worst part is she didn’t even approach her,” he wrote. “She simply walked past the singer’s table, looked to confirm it was her, smiled, and went back to sit with her mum. She didn’t say anything, didn’t ask for anything.”

Chappell Roan standing on a stage and presenting an award.

Chappell Roan denied her involvement in a fan encounter. (Valerie Macon / AFP via Getty Images)

Jorghino wrote that after his daughter walked by, “A large security guard came over to their table while they were still having breakfast and began speaking in an extremely aggressive manner to both my wife and my daughter, saying that she shouldn’t allow my daughter to ‘disrespect’ or ‘harass’ other people.”

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

He added, “It’s sad to see this kind of treatment coming from those who should understand the importance of fans. At the end of the day, they are the ones who build all of this. I sincerely hope this serves as a moment of reflection. No one should have to go through this, especially not a child.”

33 bodies including children found in Kenya mass grave, officials say

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

At least 33 bodies — including children and dismembered remains stuffed in sacks — were unearthed from a mass grave in western Kenya on Thursday, raising questions about whether the corpses were secretly moved from a hospital morgue.

Detectives exhumed the remains of 25 children and eight adults, as well as dismembered body parts packed in gunny sacks, from a mass grave at a church-owned cemetery in Kericho, authorities said.

“We were able to establish that these were bodies transferred from Nyamira District Hospital to a private cemetery in Kericho,” Mohamed Amin, who leads the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, told reporters.

He said detectives are seeking to determine whether the bodies were legally disposed of after being removed from a morgue.

INVESTIGATION CONTINUES AFTER HUNDREDS OF CREMATED HUMAN REMAINS DISCOVERED, RECOVERED FROM NEVADA DESERT

At least 33 bodies – 25 of them children – were found in a mass grave in Kenya on Thursday. (Andrew Kasuku/AP Photo)

The Associated Press reported that Kenyan law allows hospitals and morgues to dispose of unclaimed bodies after 14 days with court authorization.

Government pathologists conducted autopsies Thursday to determine the cause of death, though the identities of the victims have not been released.

Authorities have arrested two people in connection with the case.

HUNDREDS OF MUTILATED BODIES FOUND IN SUSPECTED NIGERIAN ORGAN-HARVESTING RING

workers survey Kenya mass grave

Authorities have arrested two people in connection with the case. (Andrew Kasuku/AP Photo)

Local media reported the bodies were transported in a government vehicle by unidentified individuals and buried hastily, with some gravediggers later alerting police.

“We need authorities to conduct a thorough investigation,” resident Brian Kibunja said.

Another resident, Samuel Moso, said authorities should “reveal if the government was involved or if a different group of people was behind the mass burial.”

PENNSYLVANIA MAN ALLEGEDLY FOUND WITH OVER 100 SETS OF HUMAN REMAINS IN HOME, STORAGE UNIT: ‘HORROR MOVIE’

kenya mass grave is uncovered

There have been three major mass-grave incidents in Kenya over the past three years. (Andrew Kasuku/AP Photo)

There have been three major mass-grave incidents in Kenya over the past three years.

Police in 2023 uncovered hundreds of bodies buried in a forest in Kenya’s coastal Kilifi region, exhuming mass graves tied to a religious leader accused of starving his followers to death.

In 2024, authorities recovered nine bodies from a dumpsite in Nairobi, the Eastern African nation’s capital.

The latest discovery comes as concerns grow among some Kenyans over alleged abuses by police.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Missing Voices, a human rights group, said it documented 125 extrajudicial killings and six enforced disappearances in Kenya over the past year, compared to 104 reported killings the year before.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Fremont, California ranked happiest city in America in new WalletHub study

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Americans searching for a happier place to live may want to look beyond the country’s biggest and most well-known cities.

A new WalletHub study analyzing more than 180 of the largest U.S. cities found that overall happiness is driven by more than just income, factoring in mental health, physical well-being and community environment.

Instead of major hubs like New York or Los Angeles topping the list, smaller and mid-sized cities dominated the rankings.

MORE AMERICANS LEAVE BIG CITIES FOR RURAL STATES AS MIGRATION PATTERNS SHIFT IN 2026

Fremont, California, ranked as the happiest city in America. It was followed by Bismarck, North Dakota, Scottsdale, Arizona, South Burlington, Vermont and Fargo, North Dakota.

Fremont, California, has been named the happiest city in the United States. (iStock)

Rounding out the top 10 were Overland Park, Kansas, Charleston, South Carolina, Irvine, California, Gilbert, Arizona and San Jose, California.

Higher salaries in large metro areas don’t necessarily lead to greater happiness, the results suggest. Instead, quality of life appears to play a larger role.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

“Research shows that having more money only increases your happiness until you’re making at least $75,000 per year — anything more you earn likely won’t have an impact,” WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said in a statement.

“Therefore, when deciding where to live to maximize your happiness, you’ll want to pick a city that offers more than just a decent average income,” he added.

People walking on the sidewalk by the shops in Charleston, South Carolina.

Charleston, South Carolina, placed in the top 10 for happiest cities in the U.S. (iStock)

Cities that ranked highest tended to perform well in areas such as emotional and physical well-being, job satisfaction and strong community ties.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

Fremont stood out in particular, ranking first in emotional and physical well-being and fourth in community environment.

The city also has one of the lowest separation and divorce rates in the country, along with a low depression rate and high life expectancy, the study noted.

Three older men chatting outdoors in a leafy neighborhood, one holding a coffee cup, standing near a sidewalk and greenery.

Cities at the top of the list tended to stand out for well-being, job fulfillment and close-knit communities. (iStock)

Nearly 80% of Fremont households earn more than $75,000 annually, a key benchmark tied to happiness levels, according to the report.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Fremont also ranks fifth among the most caring cities in America, WalletHub noted.

Together, those factors highlight what separates the happiest cities from the rest.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

“The ideal city provides conditions that foster good mental and physical health, like reasonable work hours, short commutes, good weather and caring neighbors,” Lupo said.

Viral videos slam Southwest for new plus-size seating policy as airline responds

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

A Southwest seating policy has ignited a heated fat-shaming debate on TikTok and Instagram, with passengers strongly divided over whether the rule is just “common sense” — or “anxiety-inducing.”

Several passengers have gone viral in recent weeks for saying the airline’s new “customer of size” policy has been humiliating. But many travelers praise the airline, noting that it’s unfair of others to “spill over” into the next seat. 

The policy asks passengers who need extra space to purchase a second seat in advance. It also allows the airline to make the determination on a case-by-case basis — citing safety reasons and overall passenger comfort.

PASSENGERS RIP AIRLINE FOR NEW SEATING POLICY: ‘IT IS AS BAD AS EVERYONE IS SAYING’

But as some people see it, the policy doesn’t clearly define the criteria that’s used — making the rules feel arbitrary, critics say.

“We began communicating changes to our policy — which is in line with industry standards — almost a year ago and continued reiterating those changes directly to customers throughout the summer,” Southwest Airlines told Fox News Digital in response to a request for comment. 

Several flight passengers (not pictured) have gone viral for saying Southwest’s new “customer of size” policy is confusing to them.  (iStock)

The extra seat rule, as well as other policies, went into effect Jan. 27, the company said.

If a second seat is purchased at the airport, travelers must pay the current same-day fare, which may be higher than their original ticket price.

BAGGAGE HANDLER SLAMMED AFTER VIRAL VIDEO SHOWS GUITARS VIOLENTLY TOSSED ON TARMAC

The airline says the armrest serves as a boundary between seats. It also notes it may require a passenger to obtain an extra seat at its own discretion for safety reasons.

Meg Elison, an author in the San Francisco Bay Area known for discussing body positivity issues, related on social media that she recently took a trip in which she had to fly six times in five days. 

A blurred flight attendant wearing red is seen standing in the cabin of a commercial flight.

Southwest Airlines’ policy asks any passengers who may need extra space to purchase a second seat in advance. (iStock)

On her first flight, the gate agents didn’t ask her to buy a second seat, she said.

On her second leg between St. Louis, Missouri and Little Rock, Arkansas, she was stopped by an agent, she recounted.

OUT-OF-CONTROL AIRLINE PASSENGER CAUGHT ON VIDEO RIPPING INTO FLIGHT CREW IN ‘SAD’ MELTDOWN

“My gate agent immediately walked away from me without saying anything to my face,” she said in a TikTok video.

“The supervisor came back and said, ‘You’re going to have to buy a second seat.'”

people in airport with luggage

If a second seat is bought at the airport, travelers need to pay the current same-day fare, according to the airline.  (iStock)

Elison said she believes the policy is inconsistent. 

She told followers she’d bought a second seat in the past to have extra space — so she doesn’t understand why the airline didn’t notify her in advance this time around.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

One of her followers responded with her own experience. “I had to fly Southwest for a work trip last month, and it was the most anxiety-inducing experience I have had in years.

“The thought of having to purchase a second seat and explain that on my petty cash reconciliation notes to my employer nearly sent me into cardiac arrest!” the follower added.

Southwest Airlines under fire for customer of size policy

The airline says the armrest between seats serves as the clear boundary.  (Tom Fox/The Dallas Morning News )

Another frequent Southwest traveler said she had a similar experience.

“It ruined our trip,” the woman said in a TikTok video. “If I had gotten in the seat and someone had complained, and I’m encroaching in the space, I get that. The problem is, what is your process, Southwest?”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

Her followers were divided about that experience.

One said, “I’m sorry, dear. … Having to share my seat with someone who was much larger than their seats was incredibly stressful. I had a full panic attack because that person was literally on me.”

“Our goal is always to provide a comfortable experience for everyone on board.”

Another commenter had more sympathy. 

“The policy seems arbitrary and capricious on top of being somewhat discriminatory,” the person wrote.

Southwest airlines backlash from plus-size passengers

“We ask customers who may need an extra seat to let us know in advance of their day of travel so we can do our best to accommodate their needs,” said Southwest about its policies.  (Anna Moneymaker)

Southwest Airlines maintains a clear point of view. 

“Our policy is well-defined on our website and has instructions on how to book a second seat at booking,” the airline said.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

“We ask customers who may need an extra seat to let us know in advance of their day of travel so we can do our best to accommodate their needs,” the airline continued.

“If you need two seats, you buy them.”

“Our goal is always to provide a comfortable experience for everyone on board. However, with assigned seating, adjacent seats may sometimes already be occupied.”

Many Southwest passengers have been applauding the change.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

One Instagram user wrote, “Good! Nothing should be free. If you need two seats, you buy them.”

Another simply said, “Seems like common sense to me.”

Southwest’s customer support online help center lays out its position on the seating policy, including this note: “If you require more than one seat, we strongly recommend that you book both seats when making your reservation to ensure availability.”

Buzzer malfunction sparks delay in Illinois-Iowa Elite Eight matchup

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

For the first time in more than two decades, the Illinois men’s basketball team will still be dancing when the Final Four tips off.

Iowa’s underdog run in the NCAA Tournament ended Saturday with a 71-59 loss to a dominant Illinois team. Before Illinois could cut down the nets at Houston’s Toyota Center, a buzzer malfunction caused a loud, roughly 10-minute delay.

The buzzer initially sounded signaling the end of a media timeout with just under eight minutes remaining in the first half. The horn continued blaring for about another seven minutes.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

A referee talks with the scorer’s table during an official’s timeout due to a broken shot clock horn during the first half of an Elite Eight game between Iowa and Illinois in the NCAA Tournament Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Houston, Texas. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Players stood on the court ready to play for a couple of minutes before both teams started to warm up as the buzzer continued to sound.

It was finally silenced, to cheers from the crowd, but then the main scoreboard and video screen that hangs over the middle of the court went dark.

The game ultimately resumed with the big scoreboard still off. Two smaller scoreboards at each end of the arena were working.

Freshman guard Keaton Wagler scored 25 points to help secure Illinois’ first Final Four berth since 2005.

Illinois basketball player dribbles while an Iowa Hawkeyes players defends

Keaton Wagler (23) of the Illinois Fighting Illini dribbles against Isaia Howard (23) of the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center March 28, 2026, in Houston, Texas.  (Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

This will be the sixth overall trip to the Final Four for Illinois, which has never won a national title. The Fighting Illini will face either Duke or UConn next week in Indianapolis.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

New study reveals America’s most and least stressed states

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Americans hoping to unwind on their next trip may want to think twice about where they’re headed.

A comparison of all 50 states across 40 indicators of stress — including work, money, family and health factors — found that densely populated states with major metro areas did not top the list, according to a new WalletHub study. Instead, states across the South and Southwest ranked among the most stressed overall.

Louisiana ranks as the most stressed state in the country for 2026, followed by Kentucky, New Mexico, West Virginia and Arkansas, WalletHub found. Rounding out the top 10 were Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Mississippi and Alabama.

7 COSTLY MISTAKES TO AVOID AT THE PUMP RIGHT NOW AS GAS PRICES SURGE NATIONWIDE

The results may come as a surprise to travelers who might expect New York or Illinois to top the list. Instead, both states ranked lower, with New York at No. 18 and Illinois at No. 30.

Experts say stress levels are often tied to economic conditions, health care access and community factors. (iStock)

Experts say the findings indicate that stress isn’t just tied to fast-paced city life but is often linked to broader economic and health challenges.

“Where we live can shape how much stress we experience,” Cassandra D. Chaney, a professor at Louisiana State University who studies family stress, said in a WalletHub news release.

MOST SEARCHED US SPRING BREAK DESTINATIONS FOR THIS YEAR, WITH SOME SURPRISES

“These realities remind us that stress is not simply an individual problem,” she added. “Broader social and economic environments play a powerful role in shaping daily stressors.”

Louisiana capitol building in Baton Rogue

Louisiana ranked as the most stressed state in the U.S., according to a new WalletHub study. (AP Photo/Stephen Smith)

In Louisiana, factors such as high poverty rates, limited access to health care and mental health services, and job insecurity contribute to elevated stress levels, Chaney noted. 

About 16% of residents skipped medical care due to cost, and the state ranks among the worst for poor mental health and depression while also having relatively few psychologists per capita, according to the report. It also recorded the eighth-highest average unemployment rate last year and the lowest job security of any state.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Kentucky, meanwhile, faces significant financial strain, with one of the highest bankruptcy rates and among the lowest median credit scores in the country.

Young patient man talking to psychotherapist during therapy session at clinic

States with stronger economies and better health care access tended to rank as less stressed. (iStock)

“New Mexico … faces high crime rates, financial hardship and significant family instability,” Chaney added. “Nevada experiences high unemployment and bankruptcy rates, contributing to financial stress among residents.”

For travelers to popular destinations such as Nevada (No. 6) and California (No. 12), the data suggests daily life may differ from the experience visitors see.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

Meanwhile, some of the least stressed states may offer clues for those seeking a more relaxing getaway.

Couple walks alongside lake in South Dakota.

South Dakota was named the least stressed state in the country, followed by Utah and Minnesota. (iStock)

South Dakota ranked as the least stressed state, followed by Utah, Minnesota, New Hampshire and Vermont, according to the report. These states tend to perform better in areas such as economic stability, health care access and work-life balance.

They also report higher rates of adequate sleep, an often overlooked factor tied to lower stress levels, according to the report.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Rounding out the top 10 least stressed states were Hawaii, Virginia, Wisconsin, Kansas and North Carolina.

Experts note that stress is influenced by multiple factors and can vary by individual.

Busy crosswalk and road intersection in New York Manhattan

The study analyzed all 50 states using 40 metrics, including work, financial, family and health-related stress. (iStock)

“While we cannot eliminate stress completely, we can become more intentional about how we manage it,” Chaney said.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, added in a statement, “There are plenty of small ways to manage stress, from staying active and pursuing hobbies to taking time off work and seeking help from a mental health professional.”

The analysis compared all 50 states across four key categories — work, money, family and health and safety — using 40 weighted metrics and data from sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

6 expert tips to improve fuel efficiency as gas prices continue to rise

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Gas prices are climbing again just as spring travel ramps up, putting added pressure on drivers from road trips to simply commuting to work.

The national average price for regular gas has jumped in recent weeks, climbing to about $3.98 per gallon — up roughly $1 in just the past month, according to AAA. With seasonal demand increasing and oil prices remaining elevated, experts say drivers should expect continued volatility at the pump.

Luckily, experts say small changes behind the wheel and simple maintenance habits can help stretch every tank further. Here are 7 of their best tips:

PLANE SEAT LOCATION CRITICAL IN EMERGENCIES AS EXPERTS WARN ROW POSITION IMPACTS SURVIVAL ODDS

1. Drive smarter, not faster

Gas prices are rising again as spring travel season gets underway across the U.S.

Speeding, rapid acceleration and hard braking are some of the biggest fuel drains. Fuel efficiency drops quickly above about 50 mph, The Points Guy recently reported, and federal data shows aggressive driving can cut gas mileage by up to 40% in stop-and-go traffic.

Cruise control can also help keep your speed steady but experts warn not to use it in slick conditions.

2. Pick the right gas

AMERICA’S AIRPORT AFFORDABILITY GAP: CITIES WHERE TRAVEL COSTS ARE CRUSHING FAMILIES

Using premium gas won’t improve fuel economy unless your vehicle specifically requires it.

A man in a bright shirt stands next to his brown car at a gas station, holding a fuel pump as he prepares to refuel his vehicle during daylight hours.

Using the recommended fuel grade can help drivers avoid unnecessary costs at the pump. (iStock)

Most cars are designed to run on regular 87-octane fuel, making it the most cost-effective option, according to AAA. Using a higher octane than recommended won’t improve mileage or efficiency and typically isn’t worth the added cost.

3. Keep your tires properly inflated

Underinflated tires increase resistance on the road, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel, experts say. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Tires naturally lose about 1 to 3 psi per month, and a 10 psi drop can reduce fuel economy by up to 4%. Pressure can fall even further with colder temperatures or small leaks, making regular pressure checks especially important.

Close-up of man wearing plaid shirt checking tire pressure with guage.

Keeping tires properly inflated can improve gas mileage and reduce fuel consumption. (iStock)

4. Avoid idling

Many drivers believe it’s more fuel-efficient to let a car idle than to turn it off and restart it, but experts say that’s a myth.

A warm engine uses only about 10 seconds’ worth of fuel to restart, meaning idling longer than that wastes gas, and engines can burn up to a half-gallon per hour while idling, according to AAA and government agencies. Letting a car warm up for long periods is also unnecessary, as most vehicles need only about 30 seconds before driving.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

5. Lighten your load

Extra weight — especially roof racks and cargo boxes — can significantly reduce fuel efficiency.

Man Packing Cargo Box Container on Roof Rack for Vacation

Extra weight from cargo and roof racks can lower a vehicle’s fuel efficiency. (iStock)

Drivers can lose about 1% of fuel economy for every 100 pounds added to a vehicle, and cargo mounted on the roof creates additional wind resistance that can cut mileage by up to 8% in the city and as much as 25% on the highway, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Clearing out your trunk or removing unused carriers can help your car go farther on each tank, while rear-mounted cargo options tend to have a smaller impact on fuel economy.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

6. Plan ahead

Plan fuel-efficient routes using apps like Google Maps to avoid backtracking and unnecessary stops. Combining errands into one trip and opting for “one-stop” locations when possible can reduce driving time, especially if you avoid peak traffic and stop-and-go conditions. 

Fewer trips also mean fewer cold starts, which use more fuel, helping drivers save gas over time, according to federal guidance.

Drivers refuel vehicles at a Costco gas station in Richmond, California, US, on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

Planning routes and combining errands can help drivers save gas over time. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

7. Use A/C and windows strategically

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Air conditioning can increase fuel use — by up to 10% in some cases — while open windows also reduce efficiency by creating drag, so experts recommend adjusting based on speed. 

At lower speeds, windows can be more efficient, but on highways it’s better to close them and use A/C, ideally after airing out a hot car to reduce the strain on the system.

Egyptian archaeologists uncover 5th-century Coptic monastic site in Beheira area

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Egyptian archaeologists recently unearthed the remnants of a Christian monastic site from the 5th century — some 400 years after the time of Jesus Christ.

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities wrote in a translated statement on March 23 that a building was recently found in the Qallaya area in Egypt’s Beheira Governorate.

The structure, likely a guesthouse used to host visitors, is a remnant of the “early beginnings of Coptic monasticism,” the release said. 

ARCHAEOLOGISTS UNCOVER GOLD-LADEN TOMB FILLED WITH ELITE BURIAL TREASURES FROM OVER 1,000 YEARS AGO

Previous buildings have also been found at the site, and the newly discovered structure had 13 multipurpose rooms used for “hospitality and teaching … in addition to service facilities such as a kitchen and storage areas,” officials said.

The area is considered one of Egypt’s significant early monastic centers. 

Egyptian archaeologists recently uncovered a 5th-century Christian monastic site in the Qallaya area of Beheira Governorate, officials said. (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities)

Coptic monasticism was one of the oldest forms of organized Christian monasticism, laying the groundwork for traditions that endure to this day.

DOG WALKERS TRIGGER ARCHAEOLOGICAL RACE TO PRESERVE 2,000-YEAR-OLD FOOTPRINTS IN SHIFTING SANDS

Pictures from the site show ancient structures in remarkable condition, with walls and other architectural features still intact.

“Excavations also revealed several architectural elements added to the building during later historical phases.”

The tourism ministry also shared photographs of art recently found at the site, including paintings, as well as an inscription in early Greek.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Officials believe the Greek inscription may read “Abba Kir, son of Shenouda” — suggesting it was a tombstone.

“Excavations also revealed several architectural elements added to the building during later historical phases, reflecting the evolution of its use over successive periods,” the statement said.

Split image of column, Greek tombstone

An inscription in early Greek discovered at the site may reference “Abba Kir, son of Shenouda” — possibly marking a tombstone. (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities)

In addition to the paintings, officials also noted that a “complete marble column” was found, along with “a large number of pottery shards.”

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

“Some of these bear plant and geometric decorations, while others include Coptic letters. … Some are undecorated,” the statement said.

Hisham El-Leithy, Ph.D., secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said the decorations and wall paintings are “among the most significant sources for studying early Coptic art in Egypt,” per the translated release.

Split image of braided painting, view of buildings

The discovery sheds light on the transition from individual monastic cells to more communal living arrangements, researchers said. (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities)

The discovery also highlights “the development of ascetic, simple monastic architecture, showing a functional progression from individual cells to semi-communal housing,” the statement added.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

Archaeologists also found bird and animal bones, as well as “several oyster shells,” inside one of the rooms — all pointing to everyday dietary practices.

Excavations in Egypt continue to yield many fascinating remnants of ancient Christianity — and the Qallaya discovery is one of many recent finds.

Painting at ancient site

“Some of these [artistic pieces] bear plant and geometric decorations,” an official said. (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities)

In January, archaeologists unearthed another ancient Christian monastic complex in the village of Al-Duwair, located in the Sohag Governorate.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

At Kharga Oasis, excavators found two 1,500-year-old churches and an ancient mural of Jesus.