Originally Posted by jsloan

I'm very sorry to hear that. I would try calling / we-chatting ctrip immediately to ask for a refund on the basis that they sold you a ticket that they shouldn't have been able to sell you and without disclosing the rules (e.g., no full-size carry-on unless you have status / a credit card). I don't know that they'll listen, but I'd give it a shot. I'm going to have to find another Chinese travel agent to suggest when people are looking to take advantage of these ex-China fares, too.