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Travel scams are the worst thing that can happen to a traveler — they’re the one thing that can ruin a trip. The best way to avoid travel scams is to be prepared. The worst way is to wing it.
The Most Common Travel Scams
- The taxi scam — the driver takes a long route and charges an exorbitant fare. The best way to avoid this is to use a ridesharing app or a known taxi company.
- The hotel scam — the hotel charges an exorbitant fee for a “service” that doesn’t exist. The best way to avoid this is to book a hotel in advance and to check the reviews.
- The currency scam — the vendor gives you less change than you deserve. The best way to avoid this is to count your change.
- The tour scam — the tour is not what it claims to be. The best way to avoid this is to book a tour in advance and to check the reviews.
- The “free” scam — the vendor offers a free service and then charges a huge fee. The best way to avoid this is to be wary of anything that’s “free.”
Traveler’s Checklist: Avoiding Travel Scams in 2026
- Use a ridesharing app or a known taxi company.
- Book a hotel in advance and check the reviews.
- Count your change.
- Book a tour in advance and check the reviews.
- Be wary of anything that’s “free.”