Top 10 Travel Scams and How to Outsmart Them
Let's be real-when you've waited months to take that dream trip, the last thing you need is someone trying to play you. Whether you're exploring Rome's cobblestone streets, catching vibes in Dubai, or island-hopping in the Caribbean, staying safe isn't just smart-it's essential.
That's why I put together this list of Top 10 Travel Scams you need to know about-and how to shut them down gracefully but firmly, Auntie-style.
✈️ 1. The "Broken Taxi Meter" Trick
The scam: You hop in a cab and the driver says, "Oh no, the meter's not working," then quotes you a price that would make your Uber back home faint.Auntie move: Before you get in, always ask if the meter works and confirm an estimated cost. If they can't or won't answer, keep it pushin'. When available, use ride-share apps like Uber, Bolt, or Grab, or ask your hotel to book a reliable car service. That way, you avoid surprises-and keep your coins for souvenirs, not scams.
💔 2. The "Crying Child" or "Lost Baby" Setup
The scam: Someone tugs at your heartstrings-a child says they're lost, or a woman tries to hand you her baby saying she needs help. Meanwhile, a pickpocket is quietly making off with your bag.Auntie move: I know your heart is big-but protect your peace and your purse. Step back first, assess the situation, and get help from a nearby shop, official, or hotel staff. Don't let guilt cloud your good sense-you can't help anybody if you're the one being played.
🎨 3. The "Friendship Bracelet" Hustle
The scam: Someone on the street smiles at you, grabs your wrist, and starts tying a "free" bracelet-then suddenly demands you pay.Auntie move: The moment someone tries to put something on you (bracelet, necklace, scarf), pull back and say "No, thank you" with your whole chest. It's okay to be polite and assertive. Keep your hands close and walk confidently. Folks prey on hesitation-don't give them the chance.
🏨 4. The Fake Hotel Staff Call
The scam: Late at night, your hotel room phone rings. The "front desk" says there's an issue with your card and asks you to read it out over the phone.Auntie move: Hang up immediately and call the front desk yourself-or better yet, walk down if you're unsure. Never give payment info over the phone, even if they sound convincing. Scammers love to catch travelers off guard when they're tired or just checked in.
🧳 5. The Baggage Helper at the Airport
🗺️ 6. The "Too Good to Be True" Tour
The scam: Someone offers you a private tour at a fraction of the price-but you end up in shady souvenir shops and overpriced restaurants, and the guide gets a cut.Auntie move: Always book your tours through reputable companies (like the ones we use 👀). If someone's offering "special deals" in the street, that's your cue to walk away. A low price upfront can cost you more than money-it can waste your whole day and put your safety at risk.
🎭 7. The "Free Performance" Distraction
The scam: A group of street performers draws a crowd-and while you're recording that fire drum solo or dance-off, your purse is quietly being emptied.Auntie move: Enjoy the vibes, but don't zone out. Keep your bag zipped, held tight, and in front of your body-especially in crowded areas. And if someone starts bumping or dancing too close? Step to the side. That's not rhythm, sis-it's a setup.
🧾 8. The "Wrong Change" Game
The scam: You pay for something and get the wrong change back, or they do a fast-hand switch with bills and accuse you of giving them less.Auntie move: Always count your money out loud and look at each bill before handing it over. If possible, use small bills and avoid big cash transactions in crowded markets. Taking your time shows them you're watching-and not easily fooled.
📵 9. The Public Wi-Fi Trap
The scam: You hop on "Free Airport Wi-Fi" or "Hotel Guest Wi-Fi"-but it's a fake network used to steal your passwords and personal info.Auntie move: Only connect to official, secured networks and avoid entering sensitive info (like banking passwords or credit card numbers) on public Wi-Fi. Better yet, use a VPN if you have one. And remember-checking your balance can wait. That vacation glow-up doesn't need a hacked account.
🕵🏽♀️ 10. The "You've Been Fined" Fake Officer
The scam: A person dressed like a police officer says you broke a law (like littering or jaywalking) and must pay a fine right now.Auntie move: Don't hand over money. Ask to see ID and politely say you'd like to go to the police station if there's an issue. If it's a real officer, they'll understand. If it's not-you just dodged a bullet. Always be respectful, but never let fear override your common sense.
👑 Auntie's Final Travel Wisdom:
- Carry a crossbody bag with a secure zipper, not an open tote.
- Take a photo of your passport and leave a copy in the hotel safe.
- Avoid wearing all your bling-vacation cute doesn't have to mean target practice.
- Walk with purpose-even when you're lost, strut like you know exactly where you're headed.
- And most importantly? Trust your gut. It's never wrong.