15 Common Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them

Traveling can open your eyes to new cultures, sights, and flavors—but it can also make you an easy target if you’re not careful. From sneaky overcharges to full-blown rip-offs, scams are more common than you might think.

They vary from country to country, yet the tricks often follow similar patterns. Knowing what to expect goes a long way.

Here’s a list of 15 travel scams that still catch people off guard—and how to steer clear of them.

The Broken Taxi Meter

Some drivers claim their meter is ‘not working’ just as the ride begins. Instead, they offer a fixed fare—usually double or triple the real cost.

It’s most common at airports or near tourist hubs where travelers are less familiar with standard rates. Always insist on a metered ride or agree on a fair price upfront.

The Overbooked Hotel Switch

You arrive at your hotel only to hear it’s ‘full’ or ‘closed,’ but the friendly local at the desk knows a ‘better place’ nearby. What really happens?

You’re redirected to a partner hotel at a higher price, with staff collecting a commission. Avoid this by calling your hotel in advance and refusing alternatives unless you verify them yourself.

Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.

The Friendly Local Offering a Tour

A stranger strikes up a chat and offers to show you a hidden spot or ‘authentic’ area tourists don’t know. Halfway through, you’re led to a shop, pressured to buy something, or charged for their ‘guiding services.’

The whole setup is rehearsed. Politely decline these offers unless they’re from a licensed guide or company.

The Jewelry or Carpet Shop Trap

You’re invited in for free tea or a cultural demonstration—then gently nudged to browse handmade items. The pressure builds quickly, and prices are often inflated well beyond their worth.

If you’re not planning to buy, it’s best to skip the invitation altogether. Free tea usually comes with a sales pitch.

The ‘Spill on You’ Distraction

Someone bumps into you and spills sauce, ketchup, or even bird droppings on your clothes—then offers to help clean it. While you’re distracted, an accomplice quietly grabs your wallet or phone. If this happens, step away from the crowd and check your belongings before accepting help.

Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.

The Rental Damage Accusation

You return a scooter, jet ski, or car only to be told there’s a scratch or damage that wasn’t there before. Suddenly, you’re facing a surprise repair bill. This scam hinges on a lack of documentation.

Always take clear photos before and after using any rental—and read reviews before choosing a company.

Fake Police Officers

Two men flash badges and accuse you of carrying fake money or drugs, then demand to search your bag or wallet. They might take your cash during the process or ask for an on-the-spot fine.

Real police won’t ask for bribes or handle things on the street. Ask to go to the station if you’re unsure.

The Closed Attraction Lie

You’re heading to a temple or museum when someone stops you to say it’s closed due to a holiday or event. They just happen to know another ‘great’ place you should see instead.

The goal is to detour you to a tourist trap. Double-check online or at the entrance yourself before changing plans.

Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.

Fake Wi-Fi Networks

You connect to free public Wi-Fi that looks legit—’Airport_Free’ or ‘HotelGuest123’—but it’s a setup. Scammers can intercept your data, including passwords and payment info.

Stick to known, password-protected networks, and use a VPN whenever possible to keep your connection secure.

Currency Confusion

Vendors or taxi drivers hand back the wrong change, claiming they thought you gave a different denomination—or they return outdated or fake bills. This works best on tired or rushed tourists unfamiliar with the currency.

Count your money clearly, and always double-check your change before walking away.

The Flirty Bar Invite

A charming stranger invites you to a cool bar or club you’ve never heard of. Drinks start flowing, and you’re having a blast—until the check comes. It’s hundreds of dollars, and you’re not allowed to leave without paying.

Don’t follow strangers to remote bars, and be cautious if something feels off from the start.

Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.

The Bracelet Scam

A friendly local places a bracelet or trinket on your wrist ‘as a gift’—then demands payment. It happens quickly, and if you refuse, things get awkward or aggressive.

Keep your hands to yourself in tourist-heavy areas and don’t accept anything you didn’t ask for.

Fake Charity Collectors

They’ll approach you with a clipboard and an emotional story about helping orphans, animals, or disaster victims. The pressure to donate is high, especially in public areas.

Unfortunately, the donations rarely reach any charity. If you want to give, do it through verified organizations.

Tampered ATMs

You insert your card, and nothing happens—or worse, your card gets ‘swallowed.’ While you’re dealing with it, someone might offer to help or distract you while your PIN is captured.

Use ATMs inside banks or airports and always inspect the machine for odd attachments before using it.

Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.

Fake Ride-Share Drivers

At busy pickup areas, someone poses as your driver and says they’re there for you. If you hop in without checking the license plate or name, you could be overcharged—or worse.

Always confirm the details through the app before getting into a car, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Staying Street-Smart on the Road

Traveling doesn’t mean being paranoid—but staying alert pays off. These scams thrive on distraction, confusion, and trust in the wrong places.

A little caution goes a long way, especially in places where friendliness can be used as a tool. Knowing the playbook gives you the power to enjoy the trip—without the stress of being tricked.

More from Travel Pug

Image Credit: Travelling around the world — Photo by efks

Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.