We’ve all heard the adage: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” That statement applies to booking travel, too.
While booking travel online offers the ability to compare prices and read online reviews, AAA Travel notes that scams that target consumers booking travel online have been increasing. American Hotel and Lodging Association estimates that hotel booking scams cost U.S. consumers more than $220 a year.
For example, during an online search of travel sites for your next trip, you might see ads for super-low hotel room or car rental rates. Or maybe you’ll notice to-die-for pricing on a cruise or tour.
It’s possible that the rock-bottom rates are valid, but keep in mind that using a third-party booking site comes with a fair amount of risk.
Also, if you book through a third-party site and need to cancel or change your trip, you’ll likely run into a lot more red tape. Often the site will refer you to the airline or hotel to request a refund. If one is provided, it might not be for the full amount.
Keep in mind that not all online reviews of online travel agencies are accurate. AAA Travel experts recommend working with a trusted travel agent, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Agents are fonts of knowledge, keep you informed of changes and have your back when necessary.
As a travel resource, AAA Travel experts provide four tips to avoid travel scams and get the most out of your trip:
- 1. Research companies: Book with reputable companies whose names you’ve heard of. Even then, search their name along with “scam” and “review.” If you see a lot of negative reviews for a company, proceed with caution. Try looking them up on the Better Business Bureau. Ask friends for recommendations of online travel agencies.
- 2. Take credit: Always pay with a credit card and not a debit card. With debit cards, the money immediately is removed from your bank account, which can make getting it back more difficult. It’s easier to dispute the charges by using a credit card.
- 3. Read carefully: Combing through the fine print of travel documents can be tedious, which is why many consumers fail to do this. Even if the site says something like “satisfaction guarantee,” still read the fine print before booking. This could help prevent things such as being charged a higher room rate when you arrive and understanding your cancellation and revision policies.
- 4. Verify reservations: Call the hotels and flights you booked through a third-party site with the hotel or airline itself to make sure that the reservations are correct and ask the company to notify you of changes. Again, use a credit card to book travel, as it offers you more protection.
AAA is a go-to source for travel information. Visit aaa.com/travel.
