Vacation and travel scams can ruin a getaway in an instant — and now, with the rise of AI, travelers have yet another scam tactic to be worried about. Booking.com warns that travel scams involving AI have risen nearly 900% in the past 18 months, meaning it's more important than ever to be hypervigilant that your dream vacation doesn't become a nightmare.
Marnie Wilking, Booking.com's head of security, warns that phishing scams, where you're tricked into sharing personal financial details, are at the root of most new scams. Scammers use AI to generate convincing emails with booking links that lure unsuspecting travelers into sharing credit card details. Once you've paid up, the scammer's got your cash — and you've got nowhere to stay.
Wilking recommends that travelers enable two-factor authentication for website log-ins, be mindful of the links you click online, and remember: Scams can also pop up later when trying to enjoy the vacation itself.
No matter how savvy you think you are, it helps to step up your travel game by becoming more aware of some of the following 15 travel scams.
If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive travel discounts and trip-planning resources
Over 50 and love traveling? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member, you could be missing out on huge travel perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on hotels and resorts, airfare, cruises, car rentals, and more.
How to become a member today:
- Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
- Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
- Start enjoying your discounts and perks!
An AARP membership not only unlocks discounts that could save you hundreds on your next trip, but you’ll also have access to deals on vacation packages, guided tours, and exclusive content to help plan your next getaway.
Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (do not skip this step!). Doing so will allow you to take up to 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $12 per year with auto-renewal.
Overpriced taxis
![yellow cabs on new york street](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/yellow-cab-taxis-in-new-york.jpeg)
One of the most common scams isn’t overly dastardly or cleverly concealed. Instead, it involves locals overcharging tourists for taxi drives.
Due to currency conversion, it can be difficult to know the going rate for basic services such as taxi rides when you travel abroad. That makes you more susceptible to the scam.
One simple way to avoid this scam is to ask a trusted local — such as a hotel concierge — about the going rate for cab fare. Also, make sure your driver turns on the meter once you get in the car.
Tales about overbooked hotels
![woman exploring hotel room with luggage](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/woman-with-luggage-in-hotel-room.jpeg)
Another taxi-related scam involves drivers insisting your hotel is overbooked or closed. The driver then offers to take you to another hotel, which is likely much more expensive.
The scam is that the hotel owner secretly gives the driver a cut of the profits for bringing you there.
When you land at your destination, call your hotel to make sure it’s open and your room is still reserved.
The ‘spilled drink’ pickpocket scam
![thief stealing smartphone from unsuspecting woman](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/thief-stealing-smartphone-from-woman.jpeg)
Pickpockets are another common source of scams when you travel.
One common pickpocket scam involves someone accidentally spilling something on you and then offering to help you clean it up. While you’re distracted, the pickpocket snags your wallet or money clip. Be on guard for this scam.
Earn a $250 travel bonus with this incredible card
There's a credit card that's making waves with its amazing bonus and benefits. The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card has no annual fee and you can earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
You can earn additional points just by using this card for your everyday purchases — unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases. The 25,000 bonus points can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel or dining purchases.
If you want to travel and dine out more, the Travel Rewards card can help you get where you want to go.
The best part? There's no annual fee.
Offers for ‘free’ vacations
![couple having drinks on beach vacation](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/couple-enjoying-drink-on-beach-vacation.jpeg)
There are many online travel scams, but some of the most common start with the offer of what appears to be a “free” vacation.
In this scam, fraudsters often ask for credit card information and tell you it’s just so you can pay taxes and other small, seemingly nominal charges. But the charges will keep coming, making your “free” vacation look like something less than a bargain.
Scammers impersonating police officers
![handsome policeman writing on clipboard](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/police-officer-writing-on-clipboard.jpeg)
Many scammers are just after your cash, but some are more sinister. One such scam is the fake police impersonation, where someone impersonates an officer and invents a false reason to see your passport.
The “officer” may then try to take the passport and your wallet. So, make sure any officer you speak to provides legitimate identification.
Phony international driving permits (IDPs)
![couple on road trip in car](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/happy-couple-on-road-trip.jpeg)
If you plan on driving while abroad, you’ll need an international driver’s permit or IDP. These are offered by legitimate agencies, such as the U.S. State Department or AAA.
However, scammers might try to sell IDPs to you for a cheaper price. Of course, the documents you receive from these scammers are fake. Being caught with a phony permit could get you in trouble with the law.
Demands that you pay for jewelry
![handmade earrings for sale at fair](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/handmade-earrings-for-sale-at-fair.jpeg)
Beware if you’re in a place with street vendors or another type of marketplace environment: A common scam involves a vendor placing a piece of jewelry — such as a bracelet — on your person.
Then, the vendor rather aggressively asks you for money for the item.
The scammers in this situation are relying on you to feel embarrassed or awkward and pay them to keep from causing a scene. Don’t fall for this.
Instead, remove the item they gave you, hand it back, and leave. Don’t be socially pressured into falling for what's clearly a scam.
Warnings that tourist attractions that are closed
![musee du louvre closed during pandemic](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/musee-du-louvre-closed-during-pandemic.jpeg)
If you’re nearing a popular tourist destination, be wary of locals trying to talk you out of your plans. They might say a restaurant, museum, or other attraction is closed or that they can offer you a more authentic local experience.
In truth, the scammer might take you to another location with much higher admission fees or prices, pressure you to buy items you don’t want and engage in other tactics that will leave you poorer.
‘Experience’ scams at travel sites
![woman city guide educating tourists](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/woman-city-guide-educating-tourists.jpeg)
When booking an Airbnb or similar vacation rental, you’ve probably seen the option to book local experiences or to share time out on the town with locals. These are usually legitimate.
However, scammers run amok in these environments. Make sure to properly vet something before paying for it, or just consider opting for a more legitimate tour or experience.
Unlock exclusive entertainment deals and VIP perks (without a credit card)
Ready to take your entertainment and travels to the next level? Experience the finer things in life with the SELECT card.
No, it's not a credit card, it’s an exclusive membership — and your passport to a world of elite benefits and unforgettable moments.
Imagine sipping complimentary cocktails in downtown Manhattan at KYU NYC or saving 20% on the best sushi in Hollywood Hills at Yamashiro.
Like to shop? Members receive VIP discounts like 15% off at Brooks Brothers, and up to 60% off at Tumi.
Enjoy special offers at luxury hotels like the Four Seasons and Omni Select. For example, you get 15% off at Hyatt Hotels worldwide.
But it’s not just about the hundreds (or thousands) you could save. There are so many features that make you feel like a VIP every day. Like SELECT’s white-glove concierge that assists with bookings, recommendations, or anything you need. And priority access to reservations to some of the year’s hottest events (many not open to the public).
Fake charter-flight offers
![chartered flight in air](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/private-jet-in-air.jpeg)
Vacation packages are an excellent way to save money while traveling. They also simplify your plans. However, scammers can easily take advantage of people through vacation packages.
One major travel scam involves a fake charter flight deal. For example, you might be offered a luxurious private plane ride that includes a tour, residence, and more.
These packages are often scams, though. Want to make sure the deal is real? Stop by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Special Authorities Division website and check out the list of approved public charter flights.
Motorcycle or bike scams
![happy friends cycling in city](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/friends-cycling-in-the-city.jpeg)
A great way to explore a city abroad is on a motorcycle or bike. It is common to find folks in major cities renting these modes of transportation for the day.
However, this is a common way to get scammed. The person who rents you the motorcycle or bike will often keep your passport until the rental is returned.
Once you return, the person who offered the rental may claim you somehow damaged the bike and demand payment.
Look up these rentals in advance and check out the reviews. Also, take pictures of the equipment before you use it to prove you didn’t damage it later. If possible, let the person renting the equipment know that you are taking photos.
‘Juice jacking’ malware
![passengers charging smartphone at airport](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/passengers-charging-mobiles-before-traveling.jpeg)
As people become more aware of scams, scammers are becoming more discreet and less detectable. One new way they’re ripping off people is through something called “juice jacking.”
In this trick, the scammer goes to a public charging station — like those found at airports, restaurants, and other busy areas — and installs malware on a device that can steal your personal information when you use the charger.
Many experts suggest avoiding these charging stations and simply using your own cable and plugging directly into an AC power outlet to recharge your device.
Pickpockets who work with beggars
![homeless person in hood on street](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/homeless-person-in-hood-on-street.jpeg)
Pickpockets are incredibly creative, and some plan on robbing you hours before the actual crime. One way they do this is through working with beggars.
In this scam, a beggar will approach you for money. Often, the beggar is a woman with a child or someone injured, so their plight really pulls on your heartstrings.
Meanwhile, the pickpocket lurks nearby to watch where you put your wallet after giving the beggar money. That makes it easier for the pickpocket to snag the wallet later in the day.
The dropped-ring scam
![woman holding ring in hand](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/woman-showing-wedding-ring-in-hand.jpeg)
In this scam, a fraudster asks if you dropped or lost a ring. After you say “no,” they’ll produce the ring and ask if you want to buy it from them. They’ll go so far as to show proof that it’s real gold or silver, suggesting you resell it at home.
Often, the jewelry is cheap and not authentic and has no resale value. If someone approaches you about a lost ring and it’s not yours, just politely say “no” and walk away.
ATM skimmer scams
![african american woman besides atm machine](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/african-american-woman-using-atm-machine.jpeg)
ATMs have long been a place where pickpockets and criminals thrive. Scammers now have the technology to steal your money and information without ever approaching you.
Scammers can install devices called skimmers on ATMs. Skimmers look exactly like a regular card reader and are often installed on top of the real one. However, this device records your credit card information. A hidden camera is often used to record your PIN.
When you use an ATM, check the reader carefully. Skimmers usually are noticeable and look out of place. For extra protection, cover your hand as you enter your PIN so a camera will have a tough time picking up the numbers you are entering.
Bottom line
![women enjoying ferry ride in australia](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/10/16/asian-women-enjoying-ferry-boat-ride.jpeg)
Travel scammers are everywhere, whether you’re planning a trip locally, domestically, or abroad. While you shouldn’t spend your vacation looking over your shoulder in fear, it is still essential to remain alert.
Be wary of strangers, and never hand over cash, personal items, or information to people you don’t know.
Using one of the top credit cards to pay for purchases can also offer protection from losing money in a travel scam. Credit cards limit the amount of fraudulent transactions for which you can be held responsible and allow you to dispute charges.
Easy-to-Earn Unlimited Rewards
Benefits
Card Details
- $0 annual fee
- Simple, flat-rate rewards
- Flexible redemption options
- Up to 75% preferred Rewards bonus potential
- Apply Now
- Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
- 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
- Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
- Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
- If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
![Bank of <span class='whitespace-nowrap'>America<sup>®</sup></span> Travel Rewards credit card](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/0x0/filters:quality(100)/images/2023/08/22/boa-travel-rewards-credit-card.png)
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
on Bank of America’s secure website
Intro Offer
Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases
Annual Fee
$0
Why we like it
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card is great for individuals who enjoy earning rewards and traveling.
Cardholders will enjoy the flexibility to redeem points with no blackout dates and receive a statement credit to pay for travel and dining purchases.
Earn 1.5X points on all purchases everywhere, every time.
- Apply Now