6 Common Travel Scams Every Tourist Should Know About (And How To Outsmart Them)

No matter how seasoned a traveller you are, scams can sneak up on you faster than jet lag after a red-eye. From bustling cities to remote beaches, tourist scams are as global as passport stamps — and sometimes just as expensive. Here's the good news: Staying scam-savvy doesn't mean being paranoid. It just means knowing what to look out for. We've rounded up six of the most common travel scams, along with practical tips on how to dodge them like a pro. Whether you're wandering through Marrakech souks or backpacking across Southeast Asia, a little street smarts can save you a lot of money (and frustration).

Also Read: 8 Quick Tips For A Safe, Fun Monsoon Trip in India

Here Are 6 Common Travel Scams And How To Avoid Them:

1. The "Closed" Attraction Con

Where it happens: Bangkok, Delhi, Cairo
The scam: A friendly local tells you a major attraction is "closed for the day" due to a religious holiday, cleaning, or VIP visit. Then, they kindly suggest an alternative — usually a shop, gem store, or tour they're getting a commission from.
The fix: Walk up to the attraction and check for yourself. In most cases, it's business as usual. Don't take unsolicited advice at face value, especially if it leads you to a jewellery shop.
Pro tip: Always verify opening hours online or with your accommodation before heading out.

2. The Overpriced Taxi Ride

Photo: Unsplash

Where it happens: Major airports, train stations, tourist hotspots
The scam: A driver "forgets" to turn on the metre, claims it's broken, or offers a flat rate that's wildly inflated.
The fix: Always agree on a price before the ride if there's no metre, or insist they switch it on. Better yet, use official taxi queues, ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt (in countries where they're available), or ask your hotel for trusted driver recommendations.
Pro tip: Know the average fare before you land. Apps like Rome2Rio or local travel forums can give you a ballpark figure to avoid surprises.

3. The Fake Police Officer

Where it happens: Latin America, Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia
The scam: A "police officer" stops you, asks for your passport or wallet, then accuses you of a fake crime like drug possession or currency violations. Sometimes they'll demand an on-the-spot fine or confiscate your valuables.
The fix: Ask for ID and stay calm. Offer to go to the nearest police station if they insist on talking. Real police officers won't pressure you for money in the street.
Pro tip: Keep a digital copy of your passport and carry a photocopy — leave the original in a safe unless absolutely necessary.

4. The Rigged Currency Exchange

Photo: Unsplash

Where it happens: Border towns, tourist-heavy cities
The scam: Shady currency exchange booths offer great rates on the board, but sneak in huge commissions or count money quickly and short-change you.
The fix: Use ATMs or reputable exchange offices, ideally inside banks or airports. Avoid street exchangers, even if they offer "better" deals.
Pro tip: Use a currency conversion app like XE or Revolut to check live rates and ensure you're not being ripped off.

5. The Friendship Bracelet Trick

Where it happens: Paris, Rome, Barcelona
The scam: Someone approaches you with a friendly smile, ties a bracelet or string on your wrist "as a gift", then demands payment — sometimes aggressively.
The fix: Don't let strangers touch you or tie anything on your wrist, no matter how harmless they seem. Politely but firmly say no and keep walking.
Pro tip: Keep your hands in your pockets in crowded tourist areas - it helps you look less approachable and deters pickpockets too.

Also Read: Must-Have Travel Items For A Safe And Comfortable Summer Vacation Trip

6. The Free Wi-Fi Trap

Where it happens: Airports, cafes, public squares
The scam: You connect to a free public Wi-Fi that looks legit, but it's actually a fake hotspot set up to steal your data. From banking details to passwords, nothing's safe.
The fix: Use a VPN (virtual private network) whenever you're online abroad, especially on public Wi-Fi. Avoid logging into sensitive accounts unless you're on a secure network.
Pro tip: If the Wi-Fi name looks off or includes spelling errors (like "Starbuks_Free"), it's probably dodgy.