Scammers know you’re dreaming of that perfect getaway — and they’re betting you’ll click before you think.
Fake travel websites are on the rise, with slick designs, stolen branding, and promises that vanish faster than your deposit.
Prediction markets like Kalshi think we could hit over 2.8 million TSA check-ins before July, so it behooves oneself to keep their wits about them in terms of travel.
The FTC just issued a warning about summer scams. Here’s how to spot them and save your summer.
Look Twice at That Travel Site
Fraudsters are creating phony travel websites that mimic legit brands. They’ll even run paid ads so they show up first in search results. Don’t assume a high-ranking site is safe — check the URL, look for misspellings, and Google the site name plus “scam” before booking.
Beware of Unreal Deals
If it looks too good to be true, it almost always is. Scam sites will advertise luxury hotels or exotic vacations at suspiciously low prices. The FTC warns: deep discounts with pressure to book fast are classic red flags.
Don’t Trust Third-Party Booking Links
Some scammers set up traps on sites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or even spoofed email links. Always go directly to a trusted airline or hotel website. Clicking sketchy third-party links can cost you both money and your data.
Call the Hotel or Airline Yourself
Before you click “book,” call the hotel or airline directly to confirm the offer is real. Scammers often list fake customer service numbers or make up nonexistent bookings. A two-minute phone call can save you thousands.
Double Check the Cancellation Policy
Scam sites often skip the fine print — or bury policies that make refunds impossible. Always read the cancellation and refund policy before you pay. Legitimate businesses will make these terms easy to find and understand.
Use Credit, Not Debit
Credit cards offer more fraud protection than debit cards or direct bank transfers. If you do get scammed, it’s far easier to dispute charges and get your money back. The FTC says never wire money or pay via gift cards.
Don’t Skip Reviews and Ratings
Real reviews can reveal if a site is sketchy. Look at travel forums, social media, or sites like TripAdvisor for complaints. Be suspicious if a site has zero reviews — or only glowing ones posted on its own platform.
Check for Secure Checkout
Before entering your payment info, look for a padlock symbol and make sure the URL starts with “https”. No “s”? No security. Also, avoid any site that demands payment outside of their own checkout process.
Trust Your Gut
If something feels off — rushed booking, broken English, weird payment steps — listen to that voice in your head. Scammers want you to panic-buy. Take a breath, take a beat, and do your homework.
Report Scams to the FTC
If you’ve been scammed, report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. It helps the agency track down bad actors and warn others. A scammer might have tricked you, but you can still help stop the next one.
