Educating Yourself On Common Scam Signals Can Help Prevent Vacation Disasters
Travel is the gateway to new experiences, especially if you venture outside the country. Seeing the wonders of the world with your own eyes and taking a flavorful tour of European local fare will have you savoring every moment of your summer getaway.
A significant change in scenery and culture also makes it easier to be in the moment and disconnect from the stressors of home. However, vacations aren’t without risk. With late summer representing one of the busiest travel times of the year, scammers take it as an opportunity to cash in on unsuspecting tourists.
Scammers often target tourists because they usually aren’t familiar with the area, are distracted by all the new sights and sounds, and may be overly trusting of a friendly local. Knowing what to watch for and how to protect yourself can make the difference between a dream vacation and a frustrating, costly experience.
After exploring some of the most common travel scams to look out for, we’ll provide some simple tips and tricks that can help prevent you from becoming a victim.
Fake Booking Websites
One of the most common travel scams happens before you even leave home. Scammers set up fake websites that look like real travel booking sites. They might offer deals that seem too good to be true on hotels, flights, or vacation packages.
Warning signs:
- The site has a strange web address or spelling errors
- They ask for payment via wire transfer or gift cards
- You can’t find reviews or business information online
- The deal seems suspiciously cheaper than anywhere else
Tip: Always book through trusted sources and double-check URLs before entering payment information.
Visa Scams
Some scammers create fraudulent government websites offering visa services. They charge high fees or collect personal information for identity theft.
Warning signs:
- The website isn’t a government domain
- Extra fees are added for “rush processing”
- The form asks for information that seems unnecessary
Tip: Visit the official embassy website of the country you’re visiting to apply for a visa.
Pickpockets
In crowded areas like public transport, markets, and tourist sites, pickpockets look for distracted travelers. They often work in teams, with one creating a distraction while the other lifts your wallet or something out of your purse.
Warning signs:
- Someone bumps into you or creates a scene nearby
- You’re approached by someone with a map, clipboard, or petition
- A stranger is unusually close or touchy
Tip: Use anti-theft bags, keep valuables in front of you, and avoid keeping your wallet in your back pocket.
Taxi Overcharge
Some drivers take advantage of tourists by overcharging, taking longer routes, or claiming the meter is broken.
Warning signs:
- No meter is running
- The driver insists on a flat rate without explaining it
- They claim your hotel is “closed” or “moved” and offer to take you somewhere else
Tip: Research typical taxi rates and routes ahead of time. Use rideshare apps when possible, as these allow you to see the recommended route.
Free Item Scam
Offering a free item is an extremely popular scam. A local merchant will give you a bracelet, rose, or souvenir, usually with a smile and a story that it’s a gift. After you accept, the person will demand payment or create a scene to guilt you into paying.
Warning signs:
- Someone approaches you aggressively offering a “free” item.
- They tie something on your wrist before you can respond
- They follow you until you pay
Tip: Firmly say “no” and keep walking. Don’t engage with aggressive street vendors.
Motorbike Scam
Motorbikes and scooters are a popular way to get around a new city, and scammers have learned to turn transportation rental into an illegal revenue stream. Here’s how it works: You rent a scooter or motorbike just as you normally would, and when you go to return it, the owner claims you damaged it. Sometimes, the owner will charge huge fees or threaten to get the authorities involved if you don’t comply with their demands.
Warning signs:
- The rental doesn’t include proper paperwork or inspection
- The owner asks to hold your passport
- There are no photos or documentation before the rental
Tip: Always take photos of the vehicle before and after. Use reputable rental companies and never hand over your passport.
Closed Attraction Scam
Visiting attractions is a hallmark of travel, and scammers have mastered the art of convincing tourists they can’t access it. Typically, a friendly stranger tells you a museum or tourist spot is closed, then offers to guide you to another location, often a shop or business that pressures you to spend money.
Warning signs:
- The person approaches you at the entrance to an attraction
- They seem too eager to help or offer an “insider” experience
- They steer you toward a specific shop or service
Tip: Check attraction hours online yourself and go to the main entrance. Don’t follow strangers offering alternative tours.
ATM Scam
Scammers attach devices to ATMs to steal your card info or watch your PIN. In some cases, they may distract you and swap your card during the transaction.
Warning signs:
- The card slot looks bulky or loose
- Someone is standing too close while you use the machine
- You receive a transaction error, then someone offers help
Tip: Use ATMs in well-lit, secure areas like banks. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN and inspect the machine before using it.
Use These Best Practices to Avoid Getting Scammed
Although travel scams are common, they’re also easy to avoid with the right habits. Use these best practices to stay alert and protect yourself.
Be Careful With Your Money and Valuables
- Use credit cards, smartphone payment options, or travel debit cards instead of cash when possible. They offer better fraud protection.
- Carry only what you need for the day, and store the rest in a hotel safe.
- Be wary of unfamiliar ATMs or anyone who tries to “help” with a machine. If you’re having ATM trouble, directly contact your local bank to help investigate the issue.
Guard Your Personal Information
- Don’t share your travel plans, passport info, or full name with strangers.
- Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi. Avoid logging into your online banking account or entering passwords.
- Never give your passport as collateral for a rental. Use a copy instead.
Trust Your Instincts
- If something feels off, walk away. Scammers often rely on social pressure or confusion.
- If a deal or offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Ask your hotel or host for trusted vendors or transportation services.
Stay Informed
- Research common scams in the area before you travel.
- Use trusted travel apps or forums to read reviews and get tips.
- Save emergency contact numbers, including your country’s embassy.
Travel Smarter This Summer
Travel is one of the most rewarding things you can do, but staying safe means knowing how to protect yourself and remaining on high alert in situations where scams are most likely to occur. With a little preparation, you can avoid the stress of travel scams and focus on making great memories instead.