Many of us like to make the holiday season special by booking a trip that will create memories that last a lifetime. When making your travel reservations it is important to verify the legitimacy of the company you are working with so you don’t waste your money.
The Federal Trade Commission recently published a report showing that in 2024 Americans lost $12.5 billion to fraudsters. This number was a 25% increase over 2023. A driving force for the increase in fraud was the increase in inflation. Consumers trying to save money will often click on an advertisement or call a toll free number for a deal that is significantly lower than the competition. Some victims were scammed with phone calls offering “free” vacations, you only need to pay the tax and processing fee. (These were common in the 1980’s with time share properties.)
Although it is unlikely that we will all go through life without ever encountering a scam, there are some simple steps you can take to decrease your risk.
- Work with a reputable company. Can you meet the sales person face to face? Do they belong to any community organizations such as a Chamber of Commerce? Do they come recommended by family or friends?
- Instead of clicking the link in the ad or email, do an internet search and go directly to their website. Are there misspellings on the site? Is there a phone number to talk to a live representative or only a “contact us” email form? If the offer seems to good to be true, it probably is.
- Is the company asking for payment with a wire transfer, bitcoin or gift cards? If so, STOP and report them to the Attorney Generals office (StopFraudColorado.gov), the FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov), the Better Business Bureau or the Internet Crime Complaint Center www.IC3.gov.
If you see an offer for a vacation that appeals to you, contact your local travel professional and let them know what you are interested in. A seasoned travel professional will have established relationships with reliable, reputable travel suppliers and may have access to promotions that aren’t advertised outside of industry communications.
Whether your dream holiday getaway includes bicycling across Cambodia, skiing in the Swiss Alps or renting a beach house in Key West, Florida, working with a travel professional will allow you to enjoy your holiday and start dreaming of your next summer vacation.
