It’s summer vacation season and people are ready to travel, but if you’re not careful, scammers can raid your travel bank.
So far this year, Americans have reported more than $265,000 lost to travel scams. Last year, the average loss was $600,000.
The Better Business Bureau wants to help you have an enjoyable vacation while avoiding being conned.
- First, plan ahead: Typically, the earlier reservations are made, the better the deals and the lower the risk of the destination being booked solid. This also locks in rates and prevents higher prices later.
- Avoid broad internet searches: Entering phrases like ‘best deals’ into a search engine can sometimes bring up-websites that look official but are designed solely to rip people off.
- Be alert for travel scams: Watch out for phone calls or letters claiming a ‘free trip’ or websites offering prices that appear too good to be true.
- Do your homework: Before paying for a hotel or any service, research the business and read customer reviews.
- Before making a final payment, get all the trip details in writing: This should include the total cost, restrictions, cancellation penalties, and names of the airlines and hotels.
- Consider travel insurance: Travel insurance covers things like trip cancellations or medical emergencies.
- Finally, pay with a credit card: Paying with a credit card provides additional protection if something should go wrong with the travel reservation.