When making travel plans most of us want to get the best deal available. However, if it sounds like you are getting a really good deal that makes you wonder whether it’s real, then it’s probably best to pass. The American Hotel and Lodging Association has estimated that U.S. citizens are scammed out of about $220 million dollars each year when it comes to hotel related bookings. That’s a lot of money! So, how can you avoid falling for a deal that seems too good to be true? Take advantage of the following tips when it comes to travel planning.
Compare Prices
You can probably decipher between a great deal and a scam by comparing prices. If you find the exact same airfare or hotel room for hundreds of dollars less than other sites then it’s probably a scam. Sure, travel sites will vary, but probably not by hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Only Use Trusted Sites
There are a lot of travel sites out there, but they don’t all have your best interest in mind. Steer clear of sites that have poor reviews or no reviews at all. If you can’t find a lot of reviews about a particular company, check out their Better Business Bureau rating. Also, ask your friends or relatives what sites they have had a good experience with in the past.
Use Your Credit Card
It’s always a good idea to use your credit card instead of a debit card. When you use your debit card it’s easy for a scammer to clear your bank account fairly quickly. With a credit card you can dispute the charges and it’s often times easier to get your money back.
Pay Attention To The Little Details
You should always read the fine print. You might find that you are getting such a fabulous rate on that swanky 5 star hotel because you have to take part in a 2 hour timeshare presentation or that there are additional fees that aren’t included with your rate. After you make your reservations you should also verify with the hotel, airline or tour to make sure that they have your information.
If you can, it’s always a good idea to utilize a trusted name in the travel industry who can help you plan your trip and find you a good deal. We have a variety of tours and cruises available and you can rest assured that when you trust us to help you with your travel plans, that you are really getting a good deal and not getting scammed.
