Avoid Summer Travel Scams With These Tips From BBB
PROTECTED CONTENT
If you’re a current subscriber, log in below. If you would like to subscribe, please click the subscribe tab above.
Username and Password Help
Please enter your email and we will send you a password reset link.
When you’re planning a vacation, it can be hard to know where to start — from choosing a travel agent to booking lodging and finding businesses.
Scammers are ready to take advantage, especially as the summer travel season begins. They often target people looking for online deals by offering tempting travel packages at exceptionally low prices.
Travel and vacation scams ranked as the No. 8 riskiest type of scam reported to the Better Business Bureau in 2024. Common schemes include fake bookings for lodging and excursions, phony vacation giveaways, and fraudulent timeshare sales services. The BBB released an in-depth study on vacation and travel-related scams in 2023.
The best way to avoid losing money when planning your vacation is to prepare ahead of time and work with trusted businesses. Start by searching for businesses on BBB.org, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
How can I avoid scams while planning my vacation?
● Plan early. Allow plenty of time to research hotels, flights, and your destination. Early reservations often result in better deals. Don’t make a snap decision on a deal that seems too good to be true, and research companies on BBB.org before booking. Ask family and friends for recommendations.
● Be cautious with search terms. Searching phrases like “best deal” or “cheapest flights” can lead to websites designed to scam consumers. Instead, go directly to a reputable travel brand’s site or use BBB.org to find a travel agent to help you sort through the options.
● Watch for scam indicators. Be skeptical of unsolicited calls, texts, emails, or mailers claiming you’ve won a “free trip,” especially if you didn’t enter a contest. These offers often come with hidden fees or restrictions.
What should I do when I’m ready to book?
● Get everything in writing. Before making a final payment, get all trip details in writing, including the total cost, restrictions, cancellation penalties, and names of the airlines and hotels. Keep a copy of cancellation policies for all services.
● Consider travel insurance. Travel insurance can cover cancellations or medical emergencies. Coverage varies by plan, so ask questions and read the fine print to understand what’s included.
● Use a credit card. Paying with a credit card offers added protection in case something goes wrong or you need to dispute a charge.
Don O’Brien is the regional director for the Quincy Better Business Bureau. Contact him at [email protected] or (217) 209-3972.
Related Posts
