How to avoid travel scams this holiday season

The holiday travel season is a time for family, fun and unfortunately, sometimes, fraud. 

According to the Federal Trade Commission, thousands of travel-related scams are reported every year, with losses reaching tens of millions of dollars. Whether it’s fake travel agencies, a bogus too-good-to-be-true vacation package or a website selling counterfeit documents, scammers are ready to take advantage of travelers in a hurry. 

Knowing how to avoid travel scams can help you keep both your plans and your wallet safe. From phony bookings to false insurance claims, the best defense is awareness. 

Common travel scams to watch for 

Scammers tend to follow predictable patterns. Recognizing them early can keep your trip and your finances on track. 

Vacation package and booking scams  

While you want to look for deals to save costs on a big vacation, some deals are too good to be true. In fact, scammers will sometimes create websites and social media ads that mimic real travel agencies or booking platforms, luring customers with amazing deals, then disappear after collecting payment.  

As you begin searching for vacation packages online, you may start getting emails and text messages from sites you never visited or signed up for as well. Be especially cautious of anyone requesting a wire transfer or prepaid debit card. Those payments are nearly impossible to recover. Using a credit card adds an extra layer of protection since most issuers protect consumers against fraudulent charges. 

International driving permit (IDP) scams  

Fraudsters also sell fake IDPs online that aren’t recognized in any foreign country. Only the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are authorized to issue valid IDPs in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of State. Buying a counterfeit version can lead you to face legal trouble abroad or being denied car rentals entirely. 

Travel insurance and agency scams  

Some scam travel agencies and fraudulent “insurance” companies pose as legitimate operators, then vanish after receiving payment. Look to see if the company is registered with your state’s consumer protection office or the Better Business Bureau. Check out reviews on Google, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Trustpilot or see if they have a membership in industry associations like the International Air Transport Association (IATA), American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), or Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). 

Tourist and local scams 

Even after you arrive, scammers may still target you at tourist sites. Common travel scams include fake taxi drivers who overcharge, pickpockets who create distractions or locals offering tours that never materialize. Stay alert and keep personal items secured in crowded areas. 

Gas station skimmers 

When driving, watch for card skimmers at gas stations. These are devices placed over payment terminals that steal your credit card information. Use pumps closest to the cashier, inspect card readers for loose parts and cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Consider using contactless payments or digital wallets for added security. 

How to avoid travel scams before and during your getaway 

A few smart steps can help you avoid travel scams and protect your finances. 

• Book through trusted sources. Use established travel agencies or book directly through hotel and airline websites. Simply mark and report emails and texts from unknown sources as spam.  

• Verify links before you click. Scammers often clone real sites with subtle typos. Type the web address manually instead of following promotional links from email and texts. 

• Pay with a credit card. Credit cards typically offer stronger fraud protection and easier dispute options than debit cards or wire transfers. 

• Confirm travel documents through official channels. Obtain your international driving permit only from AAA or AATA. 

• Purchase legitimate travel insurance. Confirm a provider’s credentials through your state’s insurance department or consumer protection agency. 

• Stay alert on the ground. Keep valuables secure, limit how much cash you carry, and be cautious of anyone offering unsolicited help with money or transportation at tourist sites. Stay alert and keep personal items secured in crowded areas. 

How to spot travel scams already underway 

If you’re planning a trip and you get that itchy feeling that something isn’t right, you should follow it. The best way to avoid travel scams is to recognize red flags before you book or pay. 

• Too good to be true: Unrealistic discounts, free upgrades or limited-time offers that pressure you to “book now” often signal trouble. 

• Unusual payment requests: Legitimate companies won’t ask for money through wire transfer, gift cards or cash apps. Stick to secure credit card payments. 

• Missing or inconsistent details: Poorly written emails, vague itineraries and missing contact information are all warning signs. 

• No verifiable presence: Search the company name along with the word “scam.” If you can’t find independent reviews, skip it. 

• Travel document scams: Fraudsters may pose as government sites to sell visas or IDPs. Always check official “.gov” domains or the Department of State before entering personal information. 

What to do if you get scammed 

Even the most careful traveler can make a mistake. If you suspect fraud, act quickly. 

• Contact your credit card company immediately to dispute charges or freeze the account. 

• Report scams to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. 

• If abroad, notify the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate for assistance. 

• File a local police report — it may help support insurance or card claims. 

• Keep copies of all emails, receipts and payment records in case you need to document the incident later. 

Scammers thrive on distraction, pressure and misplaced trust — all common during the busy holiday season. But with a little preparation and awareness, you can protect yourself from common travel scams and enjoy your trip with confidence. 

By booking through trusted sources, paying attention to red flags and using secure payment methods, you can learn how to avoid travel scams and focus on what really matters: making memories that last, not mistakes that cost.