Travel Scams

How to Avoid Losing Your Money

The Division of Consumer Protection is concerned that consumers may be losing considerable amounts of money to phony travel companies which offer fabulous vacations at low prices, but fail to deliver what they have promised promised.  We'd rather have you spend your money on a vacation that you will actually take and enjoy, rather than throwing it away.

If you've been offered a great bargain on a cruise or resort vacation, but you can't seem to get all the details about it unless you pay the company, you may be dealing with a travel scam.  Typically, scam operators won't give you full and complete information in writing until after you've given them a credit card number, certified check or money order.  Once you do get further information, there will be restrictions and conditions which make it more expensive, and even impossible, to take your trip.

While getting a refund is sometimes possible, it's better to avoid paying anything in the first place.  You might miss a legitimate good deal, but chances are you'll save yourself time and money.

The Division offer these recommendations:

1. Be extremely skeptical about postcard and phone solicitations which say you've been selected to receive a fabulous vacation.
2. Never give out your credit card number unless you initiate the transaction and you are confident about the company with which you are doing business.
3. You should receive complete details in writing about any trip prior to payment.  These details should include the total price; cancellation and change penalties, if any; and specific information about all components of the package.
4. If you insist on calling a "900" number in response to a travel solicitation, understand the charges and know the risks.
5. Walk away from high pressure sales presentations which don't allow you time to evaluate the offer, or which require that you disclose your income.
6. Be suspicious of companies which require that you wait at least 60 days to take your trip.