Traveling is an incredible experience, but it also comes with risks—especially when it comes to common travel scams. Scammers often target tourists who may be unfamiliar with local customs, exchange rates, or transportation systems. They use deceptive tactics to trick travelers into overpaying, handing over personal information, or falling for fake emergencies.
From rigged taxi meters to fake police officers, these scams can happen in bustling cities, quiet villages, and even in places you least expect. However, by knowing what to watch out for, you can stay ahead of scammers and keep your trip trouble-free.
This guide will help you recognize 18 of the most common travel scams and provide practical tips on how to avoid them.
1. The Taxi Overcharge Scam: Common Travel Scams
One of the most common travel scams involves dishonest taxi drivers who overcharge tourists using various tricks. Some claim their meter is broken, while others take an unnecessarily long route to inflate the fare. In some cases, taxis have rigged meters that run faster than normal, leading to outrageous prices. The taxi scam is widespread in major tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Rome, New York, Cairo, and Mexico City. Airports, train stations, and hotel districts are common hotspots where scammers wait for unsuspecting travelers.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Use Official Taxis – Only take licensed taxis from official taxi stands or pre-book a ride through a trusted service.
- Use Ride-Hailing Apps – Apps like Uber, Bolt, Grab, or Lyft offer fixed pricing, so you don’t have to negotiate fares.
- Agree on a Fare in Advance – If meters aren’t used, negotiate a price before starting your ride.
- Track Your Route – Use Google Maps to ensure the driver isn’t taking an unnecessary detour.
2. The Fake Police Scam
Scammers posing as police officers stop tourists under the pretense of checking their passports or investigating counterfeit money. They might demand to inspect your wallet, and during this “inspection,” they discreetly steal your cash or credit cards. In other cases, they may pressure you into paying an on-the-spot fine for a fabricated offense. This scam is common in Spain, Thailand, Colombia, and Eastern Europe, especially in crowded tourist areas.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Ask for Identification – Real police officers will have official ID badges and won’t hesitate to show them.
- Never Hand Over Your Wallet – If an officer asks to inspect your wallet, politely refuse.
- Go to a Police Station – If you’re unsure, suggest discussing the issue at the nearest police station.
3. The Pickpocketing Scam
Pickpockets often work in teams, using distractions to steal wallets, phones, and valuables. Some common tricks include:
- Bumping into you in a crowded area.
- A staged fight that draws your attention.
- A child or beggar distracting you while an accomplice picks your pocket.
Where This Scam Happens
Pickpocketing is rampant in Paris, Barcelona, Rome, London, and Istanbul, especially in crowded metros, markets, and tourist attractions.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Use an Anti-Theft Backpack – Lockable zippers and RFID-blocking wallets can help.
- Keep Valuables in Front Pockets – Avoid carrying wallets in back pockets or loose bags.
- Stay Alert in Crowded Places – Be extra cautious in subway stations, tourist sites, and public transport.
4. The Free Bracelet Scam
A scammer approaches tourists, often smiling and friendly, and offers them a free bracelet or small trinket. Once the bracelet is tied around the wrist, they suddenly demand payment, becoming aggressive if refused. This scam is popular in Italy, France, Greece, and Egypt, especially near famous landmarks.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Politely Decline – Never accept unsolicited gifts from strangers.
- Walk Away – If someone grabs your hand to tie a bracelet, pull away quickly.
5. The Fake Hotel Call Scam
A scammer calls your hotel room late at night, pretending to be from the front desk, and asks to verify your credit card details. If you provide the information, they steal your money. This scam has been reported in hotels across North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Never Give Credit Card Details Over the Phone – If in doubt, call the front desk yourself to confirm.
- Report the Call – Let hotel staff know if you receive a suspicious call.
6. The Fake Petition Scam
A scammer asks tourists to sign a petition for charity, disability rights, or another social cause. While you sign, they demand a donation or attempt to pickpocket you. This scam is common in Paris, London, and Berlin, especially near tourist attractions.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Ignore Petitioners – Avoid signing anything from random strangers.
- Hold Your Belongings Securely – Keep wallets and phones close to your body.
7. The ATM Skimming Scam
Scammers install skimming devices on ATMs that copy credit card information when inserted. They later use the details to clone your card and withdraw your money. It happens worldwide but is especially common in Thailand, Mexico, and tourist-heavy areas.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Use ATMs Inside Banks – Avoid using street ATMs.
- Cover Your PIN – Shield your keypad when entering your PIN.
- Check for Unusual Devices – If the ATM slot looks loose or tampered with, don’t use it.
8. The Closed Attraction Scam
A scammer near a popular attraction tells tourists that it is closed due to maintenance or a local holiday. They then offer alternative tours that are fake, overpriced, or lead to scam shops. This scam is Popular in Bangkok, Cairo, India, and Turkey near temples, museums, and landmarks.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Check Official Websites – Always confirm operating hours before visiting.
- Ignore Unsolicited Advice – Walk past anyone claiming a place is closed.
9. The Fake Ticket Scam
Scammers sell fake tickets to popular attractions, concerts, or public transportation. Tourists buy them thinking they’re getting a good deal, only to find out at the entrance that their tickets are worthless. This scam is common in Rome, Paris, London, and Barcelona, especially outside tourist hotspots like the Colosseum, Eiffel Tower, and Vatican City.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Only Buy Tickets from Official Vendors – Use museum websites, hotel concierges, or reputable agencies.
- Avoid Street Sellers – Be cautious of anyone selling “discounted” tickets on the street.
- Check for Security Features – Official tickets often have holograms, barcodes, or watermarks.
10. The Rental Damage Scam
You rent a car, scooter, or bicycle, and when you return it, the owner falsely claims you caused damage and demands an exorbitant fee. Some even have pre-existing scratches that they later blame on you. This is common in Bali, Greece, Thailand, and Italy, especially in beach towns where scooter rentals are popular.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Take Photos Before Renting – Document any scratches, dents, or existing damage.
- Use Trusted Rental Companies – Read reviews and choose well-known agencies.
- Get Rental Insurance – Protect yourself from unexpected charges.
11. The Bar Tab Scam
A scammer (often an attractive stranger) invites you for drinks at a bar. After a few rounds, they leave, and you’re stuck with an inflated bill—sometimes hundreds of dollars. Some bars even spike drinks to make tourists more compliant. This is Popular in Spain, Thailand, and Eastern Europe, especially in nightlife districts.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Check Menu Prices First – Always ask for a price list before ordering.
- Avoid Unfamiliar Bars – Stick to well-reviewed, reputable venues.
- Stay Sober & Aware – If an invitation feels too good to be true, it probably is.
12. The Fake Tour Guide Scam
Scammers pose as tour guides and offer free or cheap tours. They either demand excessive tips at the end or take tourists to partner shops where they receive a commission on overpriced goods. Common in Egypt, India, Morocco, and Italy, especially near historical sites.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Book Through Official Websites – Use Viator, GetYourGuide, or hotel recommendations.
- Ask for a License – Legitimate guides have official badges.
- Avoid Unsolicited Offers – Never accept a tour from a random person on the street.
13. The Dropped Ring Scam
A scammer finds a gold ring on the ground and offers it to you. As you inspect it, they demand money for finding it for you. Some even switch the ring for a cheap one before selling it. This scam is common in Paris, Rome, and Prague, especially near major landmarks.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Ignore the Scammer – If someone offers you a found item, walk away.
- Don’t Engage in Street Deals – If it seems too good to be true, it’s a scam.
14. The Currency Exchange Scam
Scammers at exchange booths, small shops, or taxis shortchange tourists by giving the wrong amount or using fake or outdated currency. Some even charge hidden fees that reduce the amount exchanged. This s common in tourist-heavy areas worldwide, especially in markets, taxi stations, and local exchange shops.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Use Banks or Official Exchanges – Avoid exchanging money at street kiosks or random shops.
- Double-Check the Rate – Use Google or a currency exchange app before exchanging money.
- Count Your Money – Always verify the amount before leaving the counter.
15. The Fake Wi-Fi Scam
Scammers set up free public Wi-Fi networks in airports, cafes, or hotels. When tourists connect, the scammers steal personal data, passwords, and banking information. This is common in hotels, airports, and major city centers worldwide.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Use a VPN – A Virtual Private Network encrypts your data.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Transactions – Never access banking apps or sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi.
16. The Cheap Tour Scam
A scammer offers a cheap tour package but delivers low-quality services or no tour at all. In some cases, they abandon tourists in unfamiliar locations after collecting full payment. This is common in Southeast Asia, India, and South America, particularly in cities with famous attractions.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Book Through Reputable Platforms – Use official tourism offices or highly-rated agencies.
- Read Online Reviews – Check TripAdvisor or Google Reviews before booking.
- Avoid Paying in Full Upfront – Pay a small deposit first, if possible.
17. The Stranded Traveler Scam
A scammer approaches you with a sob story—they’ve lost their wallet, missed their flight, or had an emergency. They ask for money, promising to pay you back (but never do). This scam happens everywhere, but it’s especially common in train stations, airports, and backpacker areas.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Offer Non-Monetary Help – Suggest calling the police or giving them directions instead.
- Trust Your Instincts – If a story seems too dramatic, it’s likely a scam.
18. The Fake Charity Scam
Scammers pretend to collect donations for fake charities, often using photos of sick children or natural disasters to guilt tourists into donating. This is common in India, Africa, and major European cities, especially near temples, train stations, and crowded squares.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Verify the Charity – Research charities before donating.
- Don’t Give Cash to Street Collectors – Instead, donate through official websites.
Travel scams can ruin your trip, but knowing how they work can help you avoid falling victim. Always stay alert, do your research, and use common sense when dealing with strangers.
Before your next adventure, bookmark this guide and share it with other travelers! Safe travels!
