Scam the Scammer: 5 Common Travel Scams to be Aware of And How to Avoid Them
Traveling is all about the experiences, the good and the bad. The “Oh no, I definitely got scammed” moments are some of the worst moments. Travel scams are common, and even if you’re extra, extra cautious, you might still fall prey to these lowlifes. They’re innovators, always thinking of different ways to scam other people.
If you will be traveling soon, it’s best to Google what the common travel scams are in your destination to give you an idea of what to expect. In the meantime, the list below enumerates the scams that tourists, no matter where they go, have experienced.
Travel Scam #1: The Broken Taxi Meter
What it looks like: The taxi driver will casually mention that the meter is broken. They will say it in a manner like it’s no big deal. They will promise you a bargain flat rate and that your destination is near, and it will not cost that much. Spoiler alert: It will cost you that much.
How to avoid it: Only take a ride, whether it’s a taxi or any public transportation from legitimate areas. Before your trip, do a little research on reputable taxi services in the region, especially at the airport. If the driver says the meter’s broken, don’t attempt to negotiate. Hop off and wait for the next taxi. It will save you a headache and a few bucks.
Travel Scam #2: The “Free” Gifts
What it looks like: While traveling, be cautious of offers of free gifts. According to this article from Express, a popular scam that’s been plaguing tourists visiting Europe is the “bracelet scam.” Some tourists have reported that there are “sellers” who will approach tourists and offer to tie a “free” bracelet around their wrist. If you agree, surprise, surprise, they’ll charge you for it. If you decline, they’ll aggressively try to put it on you and while you’re distracted, an accomplice may try to pickpocket you.
Here’s another version of the “free” bracelet scam in Italy.
How to avoid it: Avoid engaging with people claiming they’re giving something away for free. Say it with me: “Nothing in life is free.” Just keep walking!
Travel Scam #3: The Fake Wi-Fi
What it looks like: You’re chilling at a café or the airport waiting for your flight when you spot an open Wi-Fi network named “Free_Coffee_WiFi” or “Airport_Lounge_Free”. It seems legit, right? Wrong. You’ve just given hackers your bank information and access to your social media accounts, where they can scam your family, pretending to be you, and send “you” money because you’re “stranded at the ends of the world.”
HuffPost also mentioned “shoulder surfing,” where scammers spy on you as you type in your passwords. Some even use binoculars from a distance. These scammers loiter at airports, hotels, or coffee shops, waiting for their next victim.
How to avoid it: Post your #TravelGoals and #BucketListChecked pictures and videos when you’re home or when your device is connected to a secured and verified network. Your Instagram feed can wait.
When entering your login details while traveling, shield your screen, or use a privacy screen protector. Even better, set up a two-factor authentication to make it difficult for hackers to run off with your last $20.
Travel Scam #4: The Currency Exchange Switcheroo
What it looks like: You ask a local for the nearest currency exchange shop. You can’t believe your luck when they tell you they can exchange your dollars at a good rate! You started imagining the extra souvenirs you can now with the sweet deal you just scored. Lo and behold, you realized that you received less than you expected, even though they counted it right in front of you.
How to avoid it: In an article from The New Zealand Herald, this scam involves a sleight of the hand. To steer clear of it, make sure to go to a bank or a reputable currency exchange shop. Your hotel can also recommend a trusted place, so you don’t end up with less cash and a whole lot of regrets.
Travel Scam #5: The Closed Attraction
What it looks like: A local approaches you outside a famous attraction. They might claim they work for the municipality or a travel agency to bring tourists such as yourself to a “better” attraction because the one you originally planned to visit is unfortunately closed. According to this article from the Express, the alternative will be most likely a souvenir shop with expensive products.
How to avoid it: Double-check if the attraction is indeed closed. Chances are it’s as open as a hungry lion’s mouth that should devour these scammers.
There’s no avoiding these scams, but if you keep your wits with you, most of these scams can be avoided with a little common sense and presence of mind. So, go forth and see the world! Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.
Safe travels, and may your only regret be that you did not master the art of packing light!
