Double-check the check

An easy way for scammers to get tired travelers is by simply adding additional items onto the bill. This can happen in restaurants, hotels, and shop. Luckily, it is easy to prevent. Make sure that you actually have purchased items listed on your bill. Also, check that they’re the same price as displayed in your place of purchase and not above.

Similarly, try and pay with cash as often as you can. Credit cards contain numbers that are easy to copy. To prevent this, make sure that your credit card never leaves your sight—no putting it under the desk or taking it to a back room for charging.

If it seems too good to be true…

It probably is. This is especially true of lodging you may find online. Recently, there have been more reports of scams in which scammers steal information and photographs from reputable sites and advertise them at crazy low prices.

Make sure that you’ve done your research and can verify that your apartment, hotel, or house is actually real. If it is well above or below other lodging in the area, there’s likely something fishy going on.

Keep on rollin’

Though you’ll probably have many offers, it is safest to transport your own luggage. In many countries, scam artists will be aggressive in their attempt to transport your luggage. This can be dangerous because they can essentially hold your luggage ransom, use you as a way of transporting illicit material, or get you to use a transportation source that gives them a huge kickback. Always keep your luggage close and agree upon a price for transportation before allowing your bags to be loaded in a car.

Remember that backpacks are a great way to transport your things because they allow close control and easy transport.

Tricky pick-pockets

When traveling, you’ll likely keep your wallet close to you, but be aware—there are other ways to steal. Many pick-pockets will attempt to distract you by trying to sell you things, putting jewelry on your wrists, or creating distractions.

Invest in a convenient travel wallet that can be worn under your shirt or around your waist and under your clothes, and always be aware.

Travel is an exciting and positive experience. By being aware and quick thinking, you’ll ensure the trip of a lifetime! (photo credit: Downtown Traveler via photopin cc)

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The Jetsetter Show Team

Tags: how to travel safely, Jason Hartman, The Jetsetter Show, travel expert, travel tips