We’ve all heard the bad news reports about people being robbed, murdered, or kidnapped abroad. That’s why it’s so important to know the common travel scams and how to avoid them! We’ll tell you what they are and how they work so you can stay safe while traveling. Knowledge is power, after all!
Water And Sodas
When you’re out at a restaurant, a server may approach you to tell you that they will save you from paying for your drink by putting it on their tab. They’ll then ask for your credit card number. After all, they’re saving you money and time! But what they’re actually doing is getting your number for future use. After you leave the restaurant, they may run a large sum of money – usually thousands of dollars – on your card.
Never give your credit card number to someone who offers you a service. Always pay directly. Most restaurants have a sign that prohibits this sort of thing.
Car Rental
When you’re at the airport, someone may approach you and say they own a car rental company. They may tell you that they can find you the cheapest car rate in town — all with just one little condition: You must give them your credit card number. They’ll pause, smile, and look at you before scribbling it down.
Don’t hand over your credit card number. If you’re not sure if the person is legitimate, walk away. Also, make sure that your card has enough money to pay for a car rental before heading to the airport.
Touring
While you’re at a tourist destination, someone may approach you and say they’re an official guide. They’ll likely say that the hotel you’re staying at is closed or that the attraction you want to visit doesn’t exist. They’ll then take your money in exchange for a tour of a counterfeit version of the attraction. The tour will be very expensive — as in hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Traveling through an official tour company is always a good idea. When signing up for a tour, ensure you’re getting the services you paid for.
Taxi And Cab Routes
While waiting at a taxi stand or hotel lobby, you may see several taxis pull up next to you. Suddenly, several people may jump out of the vehicles and surround you. They’ll say that they’re hotel employees, just trying to help you get a better taxi deal. They’ll take you to their operator (who happens to be a friend of theirs), who will offer you several options — usually involving the whole group going together in one car. Paying with cash is out of the question.
If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Always take cabs and book transportation through your hotel reception.