Summer is around the corner, and I’m dreaming about my next vacation! There are so many places to visit, and a lot of travel deals to consider. My budget and time are limited, so I have to choose carefully. I simply can’t afford losing out to a travel scam.
I want a good trip at a fair price, so I only deal with travel businesses I trust – whether it’s a travel agency or a travel website. I also do research and ask myself some key questions:
- Are the cancellations and refund policies clear? Can I get a copy of these policies in writing?
- Can I pay with credit card? Credit cards give more protection than paying with cash or check.
- Do I know the total price of the hotel stay per night, including any “resort fees” or other mandatory charges? Knowing the total price is the only way to compare hotels, so I ask if the price includes all the fees.
- Can I trust that review? If a reviewer is being paid to review a hotel or something else, they should disclose that, but not all do. I look at different websites for reviews, that way I can evaluate comments from different sources.
Also good to know: If you receive a “robocall” saying you won a “free” vacation, that’s a scam. Just hang up and report the caller to the FTC. For more tips on having a scam-free vacation, including tips on travel, timeshares and renting properties, check out ftc.gov/travelscams. Want more summer fun? Play the FTC’s game, Gear up For a Great Trip.
