How to Avoid Travel Scams

Ever been approached for a vacation to your dream destination with an unbelievably low price? Chances are you were being led into a travel scam. Travel scams are commonplace, especially during the holiday season. They target unwitting customers and swindle them out of their money. As for the dream holiday, it remains a dream even after paying unbelievable price. Steer clear of these travel nightmares with these helpful tips.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check that the travel agency or tour company offering the holiday is affiliated with a professional association.

2. Find out as much background information about the tour company as possible. Get their local numbers and contact information for their local and regional offices. If you fail to find this information, stop dealing with them.

3. Get references from the tour company and talk to individuals to determine the credibility of the package.

4. Check that the company has a general liability insurance carrier.

5. Take your time making a decision rather than giving in to sales tactics. If the offer is “only valid tonight,” think twice before accepting.

6. Find out all details about your package. From the airline you will fly with to the hotel you’ll stay in, get all the information in writing from the tour company.

7. Before deciding on a package, read the fine print. A free package may be restricted only to the airfare. The hotel accommodations may cost you a fortune.

8. Verify the company’s cancellation and refund policies before you decide to make a payment.

9. Paying with a credit card is preferable over other methods of payment since it gives you a reasonable amount of protection against fraud. If you pay in cash, ask for a receipt for your payment.

Tips & Warnings

• Phone and email solicitations are particularly tricky. If you have received a certificate, get it verified by a local authority.
• Beware of the call charges when you call a 1-900 number
• If a package enables you to travel only 60 days after you’ve paid, you could be in for trouble.

[aundybkoo]

on 12/4/2008 Thank you, this advise will come in handy when I book a trip to Europe!

[DiscountTickets]

on 12/4/2008 So very important the know about these scamers out there taking advantage of travelers.