17 Early Warning Signs of Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them

Travel scams are a real threat that can spoil your much-anticipated adventures. Whether it’s ultra-cheap flights that seem too good to be true or free trip offers that arrive out of nowhere, staying vigilant and informed is your best defense. These scams are often cleverly disguised to look legitimate, making it even trickier to spot them.

Navigating through the maze of travel offers requires you to trust your instincts and do your homework. Knowing the warning signs of travel scams can save you from losing money and peace of mind.

By staying cautious and following a few simple guidelines, you can enjoy your trips with confidence and security. Always remember, if something sounds too perfect, it probably isn’t.

Early Warning Signs of Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them

1. Fake Taxi Drivers: Always verify official ID

Fake taxi drivers can be a big problem when you’re traveling. They often try to scam tourists by charging high rates or taking longer routes.

Always make sure the driver has an official ID. It’s an easy way to protect yourself.

Before getting into a taxi, check the driver’s and taxi licenses. These should be displayed. If the driver hesitates or can’t show them, find another taxi.

Official airport taxi services usually have regulated rates and trained drivers. Be cautious of anyone who aggressively offers a ride as you exit the airport terminal. Scammers often target tired and distracted travelers.

I remember a trip to Rome when a “taxi driver” tried to rush me into his car. I asked to see his ID, and he couldn’t produce it. He wasn’t even a real taxi driver—just someone trying to take advantage of tourists.

Trust your gut. If something feels off, walking away and finding another ride is better. Don’t let anyone pressure you into making a quick decision. You deserve to travel safely and confidently.

2. Broken Meter Scam: Insist on Metered Fare

One common trick in the taxi world is the broken meter scam. Here’s the gist: a driver claims their meter is broken, whether it is or not.

You climb into the taxi, and the driver lets you know their meter isn’t working. They then name an outrageous price at the end of the ride. This scam preys on tourists unfamiliar with local rates.

Always check the meter when you enter a cab to avoid this scam. If the driver says the meter is broken, negotiate a fare upfront or find another taxi.

In some cities, you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft. These services calculate the fare before the ride starts, so you don’t need to worry.

If you’re stuck and the meter breaks mid-ride, stay calm. Ask the driver to fix it or restart it politely.

Traveling can be exciting, but it’s essential to stay sharp and protect yourself from scams. You ensure transparency and fairness in your travels by insisting on a metered fare.

Friendly ATM ‘Helpers’: Never Accept Assistance

Picture this: you’re in a foreign country, unsure about your surroundings, and need cash. You find an ATM, and as you use it, a seemingly kind stranger offers to help. It might seem like a stroke of good luck, but beware.

These so-called “helpers” might be trying to scam you. They might tell you the machine is tricky or show you how to use it. While they distract you, they might peek at your PIN or even switch your card with a fake one.

Always shield your PIN entry. Use your body or a hand to cover the keypad. Never let anyone “help” you with the ATM.

If you feel uncomfortable, cancel the transaction and find another machine. It’s better to be overly cautious than to risk losing access to your bank account.

Another trick these scammers use is to ask you to try another ATM nearby, claiming this one isn’t working. They might follow you and set up their scam at the next machine.

Stay alert and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

I remember a trip where a friend almost got scammed this way. She was overwhelmed and grateful for the stranger’s offer to help, but she quickly noticed something was wrong and walked away. Her quick thinking saved her from potential loss.

Always be cautious with your personal information and ATM transactions while traveling. Your safety and security are worth the extra vigilance.

See Related: The Ultimate Budget Travel Planner Checklist: Tips and Guide to Save Money.

4. Spilled Liquid Diversion: Protect your belongings

Picture this: you’re walking down a busy street, getting lost in the sights and sounds of a new city. Suddenly, someone accidentally spills a drink on you. Before you know it, they’re all over you, apologizing profusely and offering to help clean up.

During this chaos, an accomplice might snatch your wallet or other valuables. This trick works because you’re too distracted to notice.

Always monitor your belongings, especially in crowded areas to avoid this scam. A simple way is to keep your bag in front of you or use a money belt or hidden pouch for your valuables.

If someone spills something on you, don’t let them help. Politely decline, and keep your focus sharp. Head to a safe place to clean yourself up.

I remember a friend who traveled to Barcelona and got caught in this scam. She thought they were just clumsy tourists but ended up losing her passport. Ever since, she has used a zippered crossbody bag and tightened her grip on her belongings in crowded places.

Stay alert, and don’t let the friendly gestures fool you. Your safety and possessions come first.

5. Free Bracelets or Trinkets: Politely Decline

When traveling, you’ll probably come across friendly locals offering free bracelets or trinkets. Getting caught up in the excitement of being in a new place is easy, but this is a common scam. They’ll slip the item onto you and then demand payment.

My friend got caught in this scam in Paris. She thought it was a kind gesture but soon felt pressured to pay.

Always remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Politely decline any “free” gifts.

A firm “No, thank you” usually does the trick. Keep your hands close and avoid eye contact to deter persistence.

You’re a prime target in busy tourist areas. Stay aware of your surroundings. If someone tries to impose something on you, don’t hesitate to step back and walk away.

Use your instincts. Being cautious is okay if someone seems overly interested in giving you something for free. Trust your gut.

Keep your valuables secure and avoid getting distracted by conversations with strangers offering gifts. Staying alert and saying no can save you from an uncomfortable situation.

6. Stranger Photo Request: Only use your camera

Imagine you’re at a picturesque spot, and a friendly stranger approaches you, asking if you can take their photo with your smartphone. Seems harmless, right? Wrong.

Some scammers use this trick to access your phone. While you might think they’re just taking a picture, they could be rummaging through your apps and even sending money to themselves through services like Venmo.

If someone asks for this favor, suggest they use their device instead. Kindly decline by saying your phone has personal information or asking them if they have their camera. It keeps you safe and your personal space intact.

I remember once in Paris, a guy tried this on me. He seemed genuine, but I politely declined and offered to snap a pic with his camera. He quickly lost interest, confirming my suspicions.

When traveling, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Use your device for photos, and keep it close. Your smartphone holds more than just pictures—protect it at all costs.

7. Fake Police Officers: Ask for Proper ID

Imagine you’re strolling through a bustling market in a new city and someone in uniform approaches. They claim to be a police officer and demand to see your wallet.

Alarm bells should ring immediately. Fake police officers often use intimidation to steal your money or personal info.

Always ask to see their badge and identification. Real officers will have no issue showing you their ID.

If unsure, call the local emergency number to verify their identity. Remember, real police officers never ask for money or personal belongings on the spot.

Don’t stop immediately if you’re driving and someone tries to pull you over. Instead, drive to a well-lit, busy area.

This way, there are witnesses, and you’re less vulnerable. It sounds scary but trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.

My friend had a close call in Spain. A guy in a fake uniform tried this scam on him.

Thanks to a quick call to the local police, he avoided being duped. Always stay alert and be cautious in unfamiliar places.

8. Overpriced Street Food: Check prices beforehand

Street food can be an amazing part of your travel experience, but be careful about prices. Some vendors might try to take advantage of tourists by charging more.

To avoid this, always check the menu and prices upfront. If there’s no visible menu, ask the vendor for prices before ordering.

This can prevent surprises when it’s time to pay. I’ve seen many travelers caught off guard by a bill that’s much higher than expected.

In my travels, I’ve learned to carry small bills and change. Sometimes, vendors claim they don’t have change for larger bills, nudging you to buy more or leave the extra as a “tip.” This can be a sneaky way to overcharge.

Remember to be polite but firm if the price doesn’t match your expectations. Knowing common prices in the area helps, too, so do a little research before you head out. This way, you can enjoy your food without feeling scammed.

9. Fake Hotel Calls: Verify with Front Desk in Person

The phone rings Late at night as you’re getting cozy in bed. The front desk supposedly says there’s an issue with your credit card.

Groggily, you reach for your wallet to “re-verify” your details. Stop right there. This could be a scam.

Scammers pretend to be hotel staff and call your room, often late, hoping you won’t question them. They create a sense of urgency, making you feel you must act immediately. It’s easy to fall victim when you’re tired and off-guard.

To avoid this, never give out personal information over the phone. Hang up and head down to the front desk in person.

Verify if there’s a problem with your card. Legitimate hotel staff won’t mind the extra check.

I’ve traveled a ton and seen it all. Once, in a bustling city, I got one of these calls. Groggy but cautious, I headed downstairs.

The front desk had no clue about the call—it was a scam attempt. A little inconvenience was better than losing money.

Remember, always trust your instincts and double-check with the front desk. Better safe than sorry.

See Related: Genius Travel Hacks for Long Flights: Tips and Tricks for a Comfortable Journey

10. Currency Switch: Double-check your change

One common scam you might encounter is the currency switch when traveling abroad. Picture this: you’ve just paid for a souvenir, and the vendor hands back your change. Without thinking, you stuff the bills into your pocket and walk away.

But wait! Always double-check the cash you get back. Sometimes, unscrupulous vendors might try to shortchange you. They could switch to an unfamiliar currency or even give you outdated notes that are no longer accepted.

When I was in a tiny Southeast Asian market, I handed a vendor a bill, and she quickly gave me back the change. Something felt off, but I was in a hurry.

Later, I realized she’d given me old, worthless bills. Lesson learned the hard way.

It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local currency before your trip. Know the exchange rates and what the bills and coins look like. This small step helps you spot any funny business when getting changed.

If unsure, don’t be afraid to count your change right before the vendor. A genuine seller will never mind and might even appreciate your diligence. It’s a simple action but can save you from falling into a money trap.

11. Fake Tickets

Watch out for fake tickets when planning your travels. Scammers often lure you with deals that seem too good to be true.

• Price: Be cautious if the ticket’s price is significantly lower than the standard fare. You might be drawn to a cheap fare, but it’s often a trap.
• Confirmation Numbers: Always ensure you receive a confirmation number and an e-ticket. If you’re told to wait, it’s likely a scam.
• Websites: Stick to booking through official airline websites or well-known travel agencies. Fake sites can look surprisingly real. Check the URL carefully for any misspellings or oddities.
• Payment: Avoid paying through insecure methods like wire transfers. Use credit cards. This gives you a chance to dispute charges if something goes wrong.
• Cancellation Policies: Always request a copy of cancellation and refund policies before buying a ticket. If the seller can’t provide these, step back.

Here’s a personal story: I once almost bought a ticket from what seemed to be an official airline site. The prices were incredibly low.

Luckily, I noticed the URL was off by one letter. That saved me from potential identity theft.

Pro tip: Use services like Identity Guard to safeguard your personal information. It adds an extra layer of security to your online activities.

Stay vigilant. Scammers are smart, but with these steps, you can protect yourself and enjoy safe, scam-free travels.

12. Overpriced Taxis

Ever hopped into a taxi during your dream vacation only to be handed a bill that left you gasping? You’re not alone. Many travelers fall prey to taxi scams that quickly turn a pleasant trip into a frustrating experience.

Signs of an Overpriced Taxi Ride

First, always ask the driver to use the meter. If they refuse or claim it’s broken, that’s a red flag. Another warning sign is a driver quoting a suspiciously high flat rate for a short trip you know should be much cheaper.

Common Overpriced Taxi Scams

Some drivers may charge fake “city taxes” or “late-night fees”. These can easily add up, especially if unaware of the local fare system. Be cautious; such fees are often just a way to pad the fare.

Imagine arriving in a new city after a long flight. The driver insists there’s an extra fee for airport pickups. This might happen to you if the rules aren’t clear or uniformly enforced.

How to Protect Yourself

• Check Reviews: Before traveling, search for taxi reviews or advice on local forums. Fellow travelers often share their experiences.
• Use Official Taxis: Official taxi stands are usually at airports and major transport hubs. Stick to them.
• Know the Rates: Have a rough idea of rates beforehand. Apps like Google Maps can give you an estimate.

Personal Anecdote

Once, I hopped into a taxi in Prague without checking if it was official. The driver quoted me nearly double the actual fare. Luckily, I had read about common scams and firmly insisted on using the meter, saving myself a pretty penny.

Stay informed, and don’t let overpriced taxis ruin your travel budget. Safe travels!

13. Currency Exchange Scams

Traveling to a new country is exciting, but beware of currency exchange scams. These can catch even the savviest travelers off guard. Here are some ways to spot and avoid these traps.

Exchange Rate Trickery

Some exchange kiosks offer rates that seem fine initially, but if you check closely, they might be way below the market rate. Always check online for the current rate before exchanging money.

Credit Card Scams

When using a credit card abroad, the vendor might ask if you want to be charged in your home currency. This “Dynamic Currency Conversion” often comes with high fees. Always opt to be charged in the local currency.

Fake Bills

Fake currency is another problem. If you’re unfamiliar with a country’s currency, it’s easy to get tricked. Get familiar with what the bills should look and feel like. When possible, use official banks or well-known exchange services.

Money Exchange Switcheroo

Ever handed over a big note only for the vendor to claim you gave them a smaller one? This scam is common with taxis and small shops. Be sure to state the note’s value as you hand it over.

Table of Common Scams

Scam Type	Description	Prevention Tips
Exchange Rate Trickery	Offering terrible exchange rates	Check current rates online
Dynamic Currency Conversion	Charging in home currency with hidden fees	Choose to be charged in local currency
Fake Bills	Giving fake currency instead of real money	Familiarize yourself with local currency
Money Exchange Switcheroo	Claiming you handed over a smaller note when you did not	Clearly announce the note’s value when paying

Stay alert, do your homework, and don’t let these scams ruin your trip.

See Related: Ways to See the World: A Guide to Every Type of Traveler

14. Fake Guides

Fake guides are a common travel scam you should be cautious about. They can seem very convincing, often dressed in official-looking uniforms. They’re unlicensed and usually have no real knowledge of the sites.

You might find them at popular tourist spots. They’ll approach you, offering a “special” tour at a discounted rate.

It’s tempting, especially if you’re new to the area. But once they have your money, you get a poor tour, or they vanish.

Warning Signs:

• Lack of proper identification
• Overly aggressive or pushy behavior
• Offering deals that seem too good to be true
• Avoiding direct questions about their credentials

You should always ask for official identification. Legitimate tour guides usually have badges or licenses. It’s a good idea to book tours through reputable companies or hotels.

Personal Story:

I remember being in Rome a few years back, eager to see the Colosseum. A friendly man approached me, offering a guided tour. He seemed knowledgeable at first, but he couldn’t show any ID.

I decided to pass. Later, I learned from fellow travelers that many fell for his scam, paying high prices for a basic walk-around.

It’s crucial to stay alert. Trust your instincts.

If something feels off, it’s better to walk away. Use official channels to ensure you’re getting a legitimate guide.

Quick Tips:

• Research: Look up reviews before you go.
• Ask Locals: Hotel staff can point you to trusted guides.
• Stay Skeptical: If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.

Stay safe, and enjoy your travels!

15. Pickpocketing

Pickpocketing is one of the most common scams you’ll face while traveling. Stay alert and protect your valuables to avoid falling victim to these sneaky thieves.

Warning Signs:

• Crowded Areas: Be cautious in buses, trains, and crowded streets. Pickpockets love these places.
• Strangers Getting Too Close: If someone gets unnecessarily close, it might be an attempt to distract you.

Common Scams:

• The Distraction: Someone might ask you for directions or create a scene. Another person takes advantage of your distraction to steal your belongings.
• Fake Signs: Some pickpockets put up warning signs about pickpockets. When you check your wallet or phone, they note where you keep them.

Preventive Measures:

• Use Anti-Theft Gear: Invest in travel pants with zippered pockets or an anti-theft backpack. They make it harder for thieves to reach your valuables.
• Stay Aware: Always be aware of your surroundings. Keep your head on a swivel and avoid looking down at your belongings.

Personal Anecdote:

I remember once in Barcelona, I almost lost my wallet to a pickpocket on a crowded metro. An elderly woman created a commotion, asking for help. Thankfully, I noticed a young man’s hand reaching for my pocket. A firm grip on my wallet saved the day!

Stay Informed:

• Carry Minimal Cash: Keep just enough for daily expenses.
• Use Hotel Safes: Leave your valuables in the hotel safe whenever possible.

With vigilance and a few preventive strategies, you can safeguard yourself against pickpocketing and enjoy your travels confidently.

16. Accommodation Scams

Traveling can be thrilling, but don’t let scammers ruin your trip. Accommodation scams are quite common—especially with the rise of online booking. Here’s how to spot them:

• Fake Listings: Scammers craft fake rental listings with tempting prices. The photos may look stunning, but the property doesn’t exist. Always verify the listing on multiple sites.
• Advance Payments: Be wary if a host demands full payment outside of a trusted platform. Legitimate services like Airbnb or Booking.com handle payments securely to protect both parties.
• Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals: Watch out for significantly cheaper listings than similar options. These are often bait to lure you into a trap.
• Double-Booked Scams: You’ve booked what looks like a dream stay and arrived to find it occupied. The scammer overbooked it, leaving you stranded.
• Phishing Emails: Be skeptical of emails asking for personal or payment information. Always check if the email comes from an official source.

Story Time: I booked a cute cabin near the mountains through an online ad. The pictures looked lovely, but there was no cabin when I arrived—just an empty lot. That moment taught me to always double-check details and use reputable sites.

Stay Safe With These Tips:

• Use trusted booking platforms.
• Read reviews from previous guests.
• If it feels off, move on.
• Contact the host directly through the booking site.
• Never wire money for a reservation.

Staying vigilant can save you a lot of heartache and cash. Enjoy your travels wisely!

17. Online Booking Scams

Online booking can be a minefield if you don’t know what to look for. Scammers often target unsuspecting travelers, so it’s crucial to stay vigilant.

• Fake Websites: Scam sites often have URLs almost identical to genuine ones. A small spelling change or a missing letter can trick you. Always double-check for HTTPS in the URL.
• Unbelievable Deals: If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Ultra-cheap airline tickets or suspiciously low hotel rates often come with hidden strings. Trust your gut and research these offers.
• Urgency Tactics: Scammers will push you to book quickly, saying deals will expire soon. This creates a sense of urgency to stop you from thinking too much. Take your time, and don’t fall for these tricks.
• Phishing Emails: These emails look official but direct you to fake booking sites. They might claim an issue with your reservation and ask for personal details. Always verify the sender’s email address.
• Social Media Scams: Ads for cheap travel packages on social media can be traps. They often lead to fake sites that steal your information. Be skeptical and research before clicking.
• Checking Reviews: Always read the reviews on the booking site. Look for multiple sources to verify the site’s credibility. Legitimate sites should have plenty of positive feedback from real users.
• Secure Payments: Use secure payment methods like credit cards or trusted payment services when paying online. Avoid wire transfers or sending checks.

By being cautious and aware of these common traps, you can avoid falling victim to online booking scams. Stay sharp and trust your instincts.