Common Vacation Scams In 2026

Imagine a weeklong vacation, relaxing on a sandy beach with a refreshing drink in your hand. The only worries you have in the world are when the next time that you need to apply sunscreen, so you don’t turn into a lobster. Everyone deserves a vacation that is fun and a time to recharge.

Unfortunately, scammers are ready to strike while you are distracted and excited about your dream trip. Falling victim to a vacation scam can mean losing hard-earned money and potentially putting yourself at risk for injury. In 2026, fraudsters are blending old tricks with new technology to target tourists worldwide. Recognize the “too good to be true” deals and discover scammer signs to protect yourself and ensure your travels are filled with memories – not mishaps.

4 Vacation Scams

Fake Ticket Sales

Everyone is looking for a deal. However, scammers prey on travelers by imitating websites. They will have all the earmarks of a legitimate booking website. However, once you submit your card information, you will discover you have paid for fake airline tickets or a booking through a fake hotel. Red flags to look out for are:

  • Suspiciously low prices – If you can’t believe the price, then don’t. It probably is too good to be true.
  • Unusual payment methods – If they request wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency as payment, reconsider your booking
  • Missing details – Check, double check, and triple check the details. Fake confirmations for tickets often lack an e-ticket number or have errors in the flight or event information.

Overpriced Taxi Ride

In highly populated areas, taxis sometimes are the easiest way to get around, rather than figuring out public transportation or driving a rental on roads you don’t know. Unfortunately, some taxi companies target tourists since they are not familiar with local rates or routes. Dishonest drivers will try to scam you by:

  • Rigging the meter – Some drivers install modified meters that tick faster than normal, turning a cheap $10 ride to $50.
  • Taking the long way – Instead of the most direct path, drivers will deliberately detour to increase their fare.
  • Tourist charges – If the driver thinks you’re a tourist, for example, if they are picking you up from an airport, they may inflate their prices with hidden charges and fees without basis.

Distraction Thefts

Distraction thefts are subtle, fast, and often leave their victims missing something valuable. Items get stolen when thieves deliberately divert your attention. Some common distractions scammers will use are:

  • Fake petitions – Scammers ask you to sign a clipboard or petition, distracting you while someone else grabs your wallet or phone.
  • Bracelet or string scam – A person ties a “free” bracelet around your wrist, keeping your hands occupied, while an accomplice steals from a purse or bag.
  • Street performances – While an entertainer holds a crowd captivated, a thief may go around unnoticed, stealing easily accessible things from pockets and bags.

Currency Exchange Tricks

Sometimes the success of a scam lies in its urgency. Scammers will exploit a traveler’s unfamiliarity with local money and exchange rates to demand cash on the spot. This can leave the traveler in a very uncomfortable situation, so here are the warning signs to look for:

  • Street exchanges – Individuals may approach tourists with “better deals” compared to the local banks. However, more than likely, they will hand out counterfeit notes.
  • Short changing – Clerks may count bills or slip in smaller bills, leaving less than what was agreed.
  • Unfair rates – Exchange booth will advertise “no commission” but quietly offer rates far below the official market value.

How To Protect Yourself

Before booking your next trip, review this “traveler’s checklist” on ways to avoid vacation scams.

  1. Book smart – Stick to official airline, hotel, and tour websites, or trusted travel agencies.
  2. Review local costs – Research average taxi fares, tour prices, and currency exchange rates before you go.
  3. Pay securely – Stick to credit cards for fraud protection. Avoid wire transfers or cash with strangers.
  4. Protect valuables – Invest in anti-theft bags and only carry the essentials while out and about in new places.

Your next trip could be riskier than you think, and the last thing you want to do is give away your hard-earned money to a scammer.