How to Dodge Tourist Traps When You’re Traveling

Going to another country can be an awesome experience, but sadly, tourists are easy targets for scams. Whether it’s cabs that rip you off, fake guides, or shady ATMs, getting scammed can totally wreck your trip. To avoid tourist scams abroad, it’s important to stay alert and informed. Recognizing common fraud tactics and understanding how to prevent travel scams can help you steer clear of trouble. By being cautious and aware, you can avoid tourist scams abroad and enjoy a safe and hassle-free journey.

At ShahinTravel.in, we want your trips to be safe and chill. So in this guide, we’ll point out some common scams and how to keep yourself safe when you’re abroad.

Dodgy Taxis and Getting Ripped Off

One thing that happens a lot is taxis charging tourists too much by not using the meter or driving all the way around the houses.

How not to get fleeced by taxis:-

Stick to Official Services – Book cabs with apps you trust, like Uber or Bolt.
Sort out the Price Before you Get In – If you’re using a local taxi, agree on a price or make sure they use the meter.
Watch out for Messed-With Meters – Some scammers mess with the meters to charge extra.
Know the General Distance – Use Google Maps to keep an eye on the route and make sure the driver isn’t taking you for a ride.

Quick Tip: If a taxi driver won’t use the meter, just get another one or use an app.

Dodgy Tour Guides and Tourist Traps

Loads of tourists get caught out by fake guides who charge a fortune for dodgy tours or take you to shops where they get a cut.

How to avoid fake tours:-

Book Ahead – Use sites you trust, like ShahinTravel.in, Viator, or Get Your Guide.
Check for ID – Real guides have badges or licenses.
Don’t Fall for Street Offers – If someone comes up to you with a cheap exclusive tour, it’s probably a scam.
Look up Tour Companies Online – See what people say before you book.

Quick Tip: If someone offers a “free” tour, expect hidden costs later or them trying to sell you stuff.

ATM and Card Shenanigans

Tourists often get done over by ATM skimming, where criminals install stuff to steal your card info, or card scams in restaurants and shops.

How to protect your money:-

Use ATMs Inside Banks – Avoid ATMs out in the sticks.
Check the Card Slot – If anything looks weird, use another ATM.
Get Transaction Alerts – This helps you spot anything dodgy.
Cover the Pin Pad – Scammers might use hidden cameras.
Use Credit Cards – They usually have better fraud protection.

Quick Tip: Take a spare travel card so you have a backup.

Busted Taxi Meter Scam

Some taxi drivers say their meter is broken and charge way too much. Others drive a long way around to make the fare bigger.

How to avoid it:-

Know the rough price – Check on Google Maps or travel forums.
Make them Use the Meter – If they won’t, get another taxi.
Use Apps – Services like Uber make sure you get a fair price.

Quick Tip: If a driver tries to overcharge, bail out and get another ride.

Free Gifts and Bracelet Trick

Scammers in touristy places often give out free stuff like bracelets or flowers, but then they demand money.

How to avoid it:

• Say No and Walk Off – Don’t even start talking to them.
• Keep Your Hands to Yourself – Don’t touch anything they offer.
• Be Firm – If they keep pushing, just say No and leave.

Quick Tip: This happens a lot in cities like Paris and Rome.

Fake Hotel Calls and Charges

A scammer calls your room pretending to be hotel staff and asks for your card details to verify your booking.

How to stay safe:-

Never Give Card Details on the Phone – Hang up and call the front desk.
Check Charges at Reception – If someone asks for more money, check with the hotel staff in person.

Quick Tip: Sometimes scammers wear hotel uniforms to trick people. Always double-check at the front desk.

Fake Cops

In some cities, scammers pretend to be cops and ask to see your passport or wallet. To avoid tourist scams abroad, always ask for official identification and never hand over your valuables without verification. These fraudsters might steal cash or important documents, so staying cautious can help you avoid tourist scams abroad and protect yourself while traveling.

How to handle it:-

Ask for ID – Real officers have badges and cards.
Don’t Hand Over Your Wallet – Just show your ID.
Ask to Go to the Station – Scammers usually back off.

Quick Tip: If you’re not sure, contact your embassy.

The Helpful Stranger Trick

Some scammers act helpful by offering to carry your bags, take your photo, or give you directions. But they might demand a tip or steal your stuff.

How to stay safe:-

Say No Thanks – If you didn’t ask for help, don’t accept it.
Watch Your Stuff – Keep hold of your bags and camera.
Walk Away – If someone keeps pushing, just say no and walk away.

Quick Tip: In touristy spots like Rome and Bangkok, scammers target tourists taking pictures.

Final Tips to Stay Safe

Keep Your Eyes Open – If something feels wrong, leave.
Use Official Booking Sites – Book hotels and tours through trusted sites like ShahinTravel.in.
Keep Copies of Documents – Have copies of your passport and emergency contacts.
Learn Basic Phrases – Knowing how to say “Help” can stop misunderstandings.
Avoid Deals That Seem Too Good – If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Book Safe Trips with ShahinTravel.in

At ShahinTravel.in, we want your trips to be safe and easy We offer:-

• Verified Hotels and Tours
• Trusted Flight Bookings
• Travel Tips