Travelling is one of life's greatest joys — new places, cultures, and experiences await around every corner. But along with the excitement, there's also the risk of encountering scams that can ruin your trip and your peace of mind. Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter like us or a first-time explorer, knowing how to spot and avoid common travel scams is essential. We've picked up plenty of these lessons the hard way over the years, so here's our guide to staying safe and smart on your adventures.
1. Do Your Research Before You Go
Before we arrive anywhere new, we always take time to research the destination. Look up common scams reported by other travellers and read reviews of local services, taxis, and tour companies. Trusted travel forums, Reddit threads, and official tourism sites are great resources to get the lowdown on what to watch out for in that specific city — scams in Barcelona look very different to scams in Hong Kong or Fiji, so a bit of destination-specific homework goes a long way.
2. Keep Your Valuables Secure
Pickpocketing is a classic scam, especially in crowded tourist areas, train stations, and markets. Use a money belt or a secure crossbody bag that zips closed and stays close to your body — we picked up a decent anti-theft crossbody for around AUD $40–60 and it's been worth every cent. Avoid flashing expensive items like jewellery, cameras, or large amounts of cash, and try to only carry the cash you actually need for the day.
3. Be Wary of Overly Friendly Strangers
Sometimes scammers pose as helpful locals offering tours, directions, or "assistance" with tickets. While many locals are genuinely kind (as we found out ourselves in Hong Kong — see our story about returning a lost MTR card), always stay cautious with strangers who approach you first, especially near tourist landmarks. If something feels off, politely decline and seek help from official sources like your hotel concierge or a tourist information centre instead.
4. Avoid Unofficial Taxis and Ride Shares
Always use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services recommended by your hotel or official apps. Unofficial taxis may overcharge, take deliberately longer routes, or in rare cases even be unsafe. Confirm the price upfront or insist on using the meter, and where possible, book through an app like Uber or Grab so there's a digital record of your trip and driver. A handy tip: note the licence plate before you get in, and share your live location with a travel companion at night.
5. Watch Out for "Free" Offers
If someone offers you "free" goods or services, be skeptical. Common scams include "free" bracelets, roses, photos, or tours that suddenly come with an unexpected bill once you've accepted them. It's okay to say no firmly and just keep walking — we've had to do this more than once, and a polite but firm "no thank you" works every time.
6. Use ATMs Wisely
Avoid withdrawing cash from standalone ATMs in busy tourist spots, as these are more likely to be tampered with. Instead, use machines inside banks or your hotel. Cover your PIN with your hand and watch for any unusual devices attached to the machine that might be used to skim your card information. It's also worth telling your Australian bank you're travelling before you leave, so a legitimate overseas withdrawal doesn't get flagged and frozen.
7. Protect Your Personal Information
Never share your passport, credit card, or personal details with strangers or unverified vendors. When booking tours or accommodation, use official websites or trusted platforms with secure payment systems, and always get a printed or emailed confirmation. If a "deal" only accepts bank transfer with no paper trail, that's a red flag.
8. Trust Your Instincts
If a deal or situation sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don't feel pressured into making quick decisions, even if someone is being pushy or creating a false sense of urgency ("today only!"). Taking a moment to step back and assess the situation can save you from falling victim to a scam — and from an awkward, expensive lesson.
How Much Should You Budget for Travel Insurance?
While it won't stop a scam from happening, decent travel insurance means a lost wallet or stolen bag doesn't turn into a financial disaster on top of an emotional one. For Australians, a two-week international policy typically runs from around AUD $80 to $200 depending on destination and age. Always check what's covered for theft and lost valuables, and keep receipts or a police report if something does go missing — most insurers require this within 24–48 hours.
Final Thoughts
While scams do exist, the vast majority of travellers have safe, wonderful experiences by staying informed and cautious. Prepare ahead, keep your belongings secure, and always trust your gut. We've travelled to plenty of destinations known for tourist scams — from busy Asian markets to European tourist hotspots — and a bit of preparation has kept us out of trouble every time.
Travel smart and enjoy your adventure with confidence! And if you want more on staying safe (and sane) on the road, have a read of our tips on managing seasickness on a cruise — because feeling well is just as important as staying safe.
Our Tip Summary
- Research destination-specific scams before you travel, not after.
- Use a secure bag, carry minimal cash, and avoid flashing valuables.
- Only use licensed taxis or app-based rideshares with a paper trail.
- Say no to "free" offers from strangers — politely but firmly.
- Use ATMs inside banks or hotels, and tell your bank you're travelling.
- Budget for travel insurance (roughly AUD $80–200 for a two-week trip) as a safety net.
- Trust your gut — if it feels wrong, it probably is.
Have you encountered travel scams on your own adventures? Share your stories or tips in the comments — we love hearing how fellow travellers have stayed one step ahead, and it genuinely helps others heading to the same destinations!
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