Spring break is around the corner, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) wants to make sure students (and everyone else!) don’t get scammed while booking their getaways.
Beware of Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True
The FTC warns travelers to be cautious of offers that sound unbelievably cheap. Scammers might advertise “free” vacations that come with hidden fees, or super low prices without any details about the accommodation or location.
How to Avoid Spring Break Travel Scams
- Do your research: Before booking, search the name of the travel company or agent along with words like “scam,” “review,” or “complaint.”
- Don’t rush: Get all the details before you sign anything. This includes knowing exactly where you’ll be staying, what the cancellation policy is, and any other important information.
- Be wary of payment methods: If someone asks you to pay with a wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency, it’s a red flag! These are common payment methods for scammers because it’s nearly impossible to get your money back.
Spring Break on a Budget? Here are Some Legitimate Options
There are plenty of ways to have an awesome spring break without spending a fortune. Consider these ideas:
- Affordable destinations: Explore places like Guadalajara, Mexico, Las Vegas, or Kissimmee, Florida, which are known for being budget-friendly.
- Road trip adventures: Hit the open road and explore a new part of the country. You can save on flights and hotels while having a unique travel experience.
