Traveling is one of the world’s greatest delights, there are so many foods to try and beautiful wonders of the world to see. Still, planning a vacation isn’t just about making reservations. It’s also about ensuring you aren’t accidentally falling into a travel scam.

Because travel encompasses many industries, there are plenty of avenues for scams. Fortunately, familiarizing yourself with a few can protect you against many. Trickery can happen at any point in the process, from planning, shopping and finding transportation to come home. Here are some of the typical travel scams and how to avoid them.

High-Pressure Timeshare Deals

You might see a message saying you can receive free golf clubs if you listen to a presentation. It sounds great, but it costs thousands a year in a timeshare you may never have the chance to visit.

Timeshares seem like a worthwhile investment, but if you want out of it, there is likely no easy exit. Instead, you’re met with heavy exit costs or required to fulfill other financial obligations before cutting ties. The best way to avoid this is to never sign up for one. Understand how tempting it is and move on, use that excited energy to plan your next vacation instead.

Robocalls, Giveaways and Lucky Draw Campaigns

You’ve seen the fliers in your mailbox or received the automated call, you’ve won! You get a free vacation or cruise to an exotic destination, but you have to pay a fee somewhere down the line. These are textbook scams. The deal is rarely honest, so always check the terms and how they are phrased before signing your name.

Everyone has seen sweepstakes and giveaways award families the vacation of a lifetime. Not only is it essential to read the fine print before entering any sweepstakes or contest, but be advised on some ways to protect your potential winnings:

  • Avoid posting photos revealing information from winning documentation.
  • Don’t let any other person handle documents, checks or different types of winnings without knowing their worth.
  • Resist the urge to notify through calls or social media of your successes if you win, try to keep personal information under wraps for your security.

Even if you genuinely win something, scams can arise from that victory. Always ask for credentials from anyone asking for information about it. Also, avoid any deal that claims they need fast or advanced payment through wire transfer, gift cards or cryptocurrency. These are all likely scam tactics to avoid being traced.

Faux Designer Product Frauds

Shopping is one of the many indulgent pleasures of going on vacation. It’s time to treat yourself, but make sure you’re well-informed. Many sellers attempt to pawn imitations because tourists are already more willing to spend money.

To avoid this kind of scam, create a list of things you want to buy before you leave or research the products you’re looking for, such as fashion items or technology. If you’re second-guessing, check the seller or product reviews.

Transportation Cons

There is a wide variety of transportation-related scams. One of the most overlooked is the “bump and lift”, when someone seemingly accidentally bumps into you at a train station or crowded bus terminal and helps you pick up dropped items. During this exchange, they may have pickpocketed you. To avoid this:

  • Consider minimizing. If you bring less, you’re less likely to lose anything.
  • Maintain an inventory. You may also choose to keep a list of everything on your person so you can periodically check to be sure everything is still there.
  • Wear all bags in front. Thieves are tempted to take personal items when your back is turned, so make sure your bag is always visible.

There are also fake taxi drivers. They may overrun the meter if they know you are unfamiliar with the native currency, could price gouge without your knowledge or transport you somewhere and report where you’re going is closed. Know the hours of every place you’re going before you get there. The internet has a wealth of information and links to social media pages, so you can directly contact an attraction if necessary.

There are even scammers asking for passports as collateral for renting vehicles like motorboats and forcing tourists to pay “damage fees” to get their documents back. Never let sensitive documents leave your hands unless in a trusted area like airport security.

Data and Credential Skimmers

Hackers are becoming more common as the cybercriminal industry takes advantage of travelers acclimating to the post-pandemic world. There are many ways they can scan data from various devices in unsuspecting places. ATMs can have skimmers in card readers so hackers can steal your information. They can also wire outlets to be “juice jackers” that install malware on your device as you’re charging your phone, stealing your credentials.

To avoid situations like this, try to get cash from reliable sources like banks, airports or cashback at a shop. Be sure to plug your phone in reliable outlets in trusted places and always use your own cords. External batteries are also game-changers for extra security.

Travel Insurance Scams

This is one of the sneakiest scams. Travel insurance can benefit you, especially if you’re traveling with many valuables or intend on coming home with lots of new prized possessions.

However, fake travel insurance companies out there promise low-cost plans but offer hardly any coverage. Plus, not all trips are made equal, so buying generic travel insurance plans will not necessarily be the best option for your unique experience. Do your research, avoid bundling and know the difference between an “insurance plan” and a “protection plan.”

Wishing You Safe Travels

If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. It’s easy to get caught up in the allure and excitement of a vacation, but it’s also a time to be practical. Familiarize yourself with as many travel scams as possible and how to avoid them so you can enjoy your trip to its fullest.