If you're looking for vacation bargains during the warmer months, make sure you don't become a victim of a "travel scam," which could be as severe as fraud where the vendor has no intention to deliver services to the consumer to semi-frauds, where operators make exaggerated claims but are able to deliver enough to avoid law enforcement.
The crew over at SmarterTravel.com serve up some valuable tips on how to avoid travel scams and what consumers can do to avoid them. Here's the list:
Avoid phony airline tickets
A rogue Web site or travel agency offers a deal that seems too good to be true. They won't accept credit cards and ask consumers to send cash via a transfer of funds. When the tickets arrive, they're worthless.
The remedy: Only deal with an agency or online discount group with a solid reputation. Not sure who to trust? Check with the Better Business Bureau and online complaint sites to get the lowdown. If they don't accept credit cards, avoid the company completely.
Pay now, travel later
A so-called club approaches potential travelers with amazing deals with future travel. The caveat? They want an upfront fee. After signing up, the unsuspecting vacationer tries to book the trip but is told that the time period or locations is unavailable.
The remedy: Unless you know for a fact that the travel club is a viable business, avoid this "pay now, travel later" scenario.
Event packages without tickets
A tour vendor serves up an exciting vacation package for a big event, like the World Series or the Olympics, but has no tickets to the main event.
The remedy: Ask the operator if they actually have tickets to the event they're promoting. If not, avoid them completely.
Bogus insurance
An operator pushes a so-called "protection plan" which allegedly reimburses funds if one cancels their trip. However, when the consumer tries to cancel the tickets, it turns out the insurance is bogus.
The remedy: Check if you're actually purchasing an insurance policy from a licensed agency. Still not sure? The U.S. Travel Insurance Association serves up a list of reputable vendors here.
Click here for additional tips.
