Travel Tips to Avoid Being Caught on Vacation

Watch out for scams that could spoil your summer vacation (Photo: Wavebreakmedia, Wavebreakmedia, Getty Images / Images (iStockphoto)) [19659006Ifyou'rehopingtogetoutofthevalleytoescapetheheatbecarefulwhenmakingplans

Travel-related scams are in full swing because of rising temperatures in the Phoenix area, said Attorney General Mark Brnovich

. How to avoid scams during the summer holidays. Book with Trusted Businesses and Websites

Do not book with a lesser-known travel site, even if it displays lower prices. You could lose a lot more if the site turns out to be fake. A website can be fraudulent even if it appears near the top of the search results. Instead, use a major travel website or contact the hotel or resort directly. If you are booking on the website of a hotel, call the hotel first to make sure that you are using the correct website.

2. Check for Online Complaints

Check the Business Ethics Office for consumer complaints about the company before booking. Previous travelers may have already sounded an alarm. You can also search for online reviews of travel agencies, cruises, hotels and other holiday companies on Google, Trip Advisor, Yelp, Cruise Critic and more. Friends, neighbors, parents or trusted colleagues may also have suggestions.

3. Look at the fine print

This can be painful, but paying attention to detail can pay off in a big way. Take the time to review all terms and conditions before booking. Many businesses place important information in the fine print, including fees not included in the advertised price. Be wary of booking with a company that will not explain the terms and conditions or will not require you to sign something before you review it.

4. There is no free vacation

Do not fall into the promises of free or almost free holiday packages. Some companies do not provide the benefits that they advertise or overlook restrictions and fees that can ruin your vacation. You may also have to sit through long, high-pressure presentations to book the trip. Even savvy consumers can be caught off guard in these situations.

5. Get it in writing

Legitimate companies will always provide a written contract guaranteeing your reservation. This allows you to hold the company responsible in case of any problem.

6. Know your repayment options

Speaking of contracts, always ask for a written cancellation policy. You never know what might prevent you from traveling. Also find out if you will be charged a deposit on booking or the entire tab once you arrive at the destination. The same opinion applies to the websites of room sharing and short-term rentals like Airbnb.

7. Think Credit Cards

By booking accommodation, activities and transportation with money, a check or a debit card, you will not be able to ask for refund if the company it turns out to be a sham. Credit cards offer you more protection because you can apply for a refund, also known as a chargeback, if you are a victim of fraud. Reporting fraud to the credit card company can also help stop the scammer from victimizing others. One more thing – never pay to travel through a wire transfer service such as Western Union or MoneyGram, which are favorite tools of crooks.

8. Avoid robotic vacations

Not only automated calls that announce annoying vacation packages are illegal in most cases. Be careful of doing business with a company that sells travel offers over the phone. And never give personal information to telemarketers or send money to collect a prize.

9. Beware of fake holiday homes

If you are looking to rent a holiday home, beware of people claiming to be homeowners and asking for bank transfers. Check out comments from other users and be skeptical of any property that does not include or very few photos. It is also best to contact the host or the owner through the intermediary of an official website.

How to report a travel fraud:

If you have been the victim of a travel-related scam, file a complaint with the Attorney General's office. Phoenix at 602-542-5763, at Tucson at 520-628-6648 or outside the metropolitan area at 800-352-8431. Consumers can also file complaints online at the Attorney General's website.

Tell us your holiday scam story. Contact Rebekah L. Sanders, Consumer Inquiries Reporter, by sending an email to [email protected], texting HereToHelpAZ to 51555 or completing our online form

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