12 Travel Scams to Avoid Around the World

Traveling the world is one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences you can have. From exploring ancient ruins to savoring street food in a bustling market, every journey has the potential to change your perspective. But amidst the excitement and adventure, travelers also need to be cautious. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or planning your first trip abroad, understanding how to avoid travel scams can save you from unnecessary stress, lost money, or worse.

Unfortunately, scams are part of the travel experience in many popular destinations. The good news? With awareness and a bit of preparation, you can spot most of them before you become a target. Here’s a list of 12 common travel scams around the world and how to protect yourself from each one.

1. Taxi Meter Scams

This is one of the most common travel scams, especially in big cities and tourist hotspots. A driver may claim the meter is broken, quote you an inflated flat rate, or take a much longer route than necessary.

How to avoid it:
Use rideshare apps when available, ask your hotel for fare estimates, and always insist on the meter being turned on. Know the expected rate before you get in.

2. “Closed” Attractions

This scam often begins when a helpful local or taxi driver tells you a famous site is “closed” due to a holiday, event, or maintenance. They then suggest an alternative shop, attraction, or tour often overpriced and connected to a commission.

How to avoid it:
Always check attraction hours online or call ahead. If in doubt, walk to the site yourself to confirm. Be polite but firm if someone tries to redirect you.

3. Free Bracelets or Gifts

In many tourist areas, scammers will approach you with a bracelet, flower, or small gift and place it in your hand or on your wrist. Afterward, they demand payment and can become aggressive if you refuse.

How to avoid it:
Never accept unsolicited items. If someone tries to force something on you, calmly and firmly give it back or drop it and walk away.

4. Fake Police Officers

A person dressed like a police officer may stop you and ask for your ID or passport, then accuse you of a violation and demand an on-the-spot fine. These scammers often work in tourist-heavy areas.

How to avoid it:
Always ask to see official identification. If unsure, offer to go to the nearest police station to verify their legitimacy. Real officers won’t usually ask for cash payments on the street.

5. Pickpocket Distractions

Pickpockets often work in groups using distractions like fake fights, spilled food or drinks, or someone bumping into you. While you’re distracted, your valuables disappear.

How to avoid it:
Keep your wallet in a zipped, secure place. Wear a money belt or use anti-theft bags. Stay alert in crowded areas like markets, metros, and festivals.

6. ATM Skimming

Skimmers are hidden devices attached to ATMs that steal your card details. Some scammers even place tiny cameras to capture your PIN.

How to avoid it:
Use ATMs inside banks or in well-lit, secure locations. Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Tug gently on the card reader to check for tampering.

7. Fake Petitions

You may be approached by someone (often appearing deaf or mute) asking you to sign a petition for a cause like helping children or the disabled. Once you sign, they demand a donation or use the distraction to pickpocket you.

How to avoid it:
Avoid engaging with street solicitors unless you’re sure the cause is legitimate. Keep walking and politely decline.

8. Fake Accommodation Listings

Booking what seems like the perfect Airbnb or hotel online, only to arrive and find out it doesn’t exist, is a nightmare scenario. This scam is becoming more common as digital bookings increase.

How to avoid it:
Book through well-known platforms with verified reviews. Don’t pay with wire transfers or outside official platforms. Always double-check the property’s legitimacy.

9. Currency Exchange Scams

These scams can happen at shady exchange booths or with street money changers. You may be given the wrong amount, charged hidden fees, or even handed fake bills.

How to avoid it:
Use official exchange counters or ATMs. Count your money carefully before leaving. Always ask for and keep a receipt.

10. Restaurant Overcharging

Tourist traps in popular destinations sometimes serve meals without showing a menu, then present an inflated bill at the end. Or they might add mysterious charges for items like “table service” or bread you didn’t order.

How to avoid it:
Always ask to see the menu with prices first. Avoid restaurants with aggressive greeters. Check online reviews before sitting down.

11. Rental Damage Claims

After returning a rented scooter, car, or jet ski, the owner might accuse you of damage you didn’t cause and demand compensation, often keeping your deposit.

How to avoid it:
Take photos and videos of the vehicle before and after your rental. Use reputable companies with clear contracts. Read the fine print before signing.

12. Fake Wi-Fi Networks

In airports, cafes, or hotels, scammers may set up free Wi-Fi networks that look legitimate. Once connected, they can steal your personal data or login credentials.

How to avoid it:
Use a VPN when browsing on public Wi-Fi. Confirm the network name with staff before connecting. Avoid accessing sensitive accounts like online banking on public networks.

Travel Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

While these tourist scams around the world can seem overwhelming, the key is awareness. Here are a few general travel safety tips to help you stay ahead of the scammers:

• Do your research. Look up common scams in the destination you’re visiting.

• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

• Keep copies of important documents. Store digital and paper copies separately.

• Use trusted booking platforms. Avoid unknown sites or deals that seem too good to be true.

• Stay alert in crowds. Be especially cautious in tourist-heavy areas or on public transport.

• Blend in. Don’t flash expensive items or appear lost scammers often target obvious tourists.

Traveling should be fun, enriching, and safe. While international travel scams do exist, they don’t have to ruin your trip. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid becoming a victim and focus on making incredible memories around the world.