Whether you’re exploring a popular tourist hotspot or discovering a hidden gem, travel scams can quickly turn a dream trip into a frustrating—and expensive—experience. While most travelers won’t fall victim to anything serious, it’s still important to stay aware. Here’s a guide to the most common travel scams to watch out for in 2025, plus smart ways to avoid them.

1. The Fake Taxi Meter or “Broken Meter” Scam

In many cities, tourists are told the taxi meter is broken, and the driver charges an inflated flat rate instead.
How to avoid it:

• Always agree on a price before getting in if the meter isn’t working

• Use reputable ride apps like Uber, Bolt, or Grab instead

• You can also earn cashback with a Uber gift card to save on legitimate rides

2. Free Bracelets or Flowers Scam

Scammers offer you a “free” bracelet, flower, or trinket, then demand payment once it’s in your hand. This is especially common in European tourist zones.
How to avoid it:

• Firmly say no and don’t allow anything to be placed on your body or in your hand

• Walk away confidently and avoid eye contact with aggressive street sellers

3. Fake Ticket or Attraction Sellers

You’re approached near a landmark and offered “skip the line” tickets at a discount—only to find out they’re fake.
How to avoid it:

• Always book through official websites or trusted platforms like GetYourGuide, Tiqets, or Viator

4. The “Let Me Help You” ATM Scam

Someone offers unsolicited help at an ATM or asks to “fix” a stuck card, only to steal your card or watch you enter your PIN.
How to avoid it:

• Never let anyone near you while at an ATM

• Use ATMs in banks or hotels rather than on the street

• Consider virtual payment options or prepaid methods like earn cashback with Visa if traveling cash-light

5. Overpriced Currency Exchange Booths

Exchange booths in airports or near tourist attractions often offer terrible rates or charge high commissions.
How to avoid it:

• Use cards with no foreign transaction fees, like those from Charles Schwab or Revolut

• Withdraw cash from ATMs using a bank card with low fees

• Use apps like Wise for cross-border payments at real exchange rates

6. Fake Hotel Calls Asking for Your Card Info

Shortly after checking in, you receive a call from “reception” claiming they need your card info again. It’s a scammer calling your room directly.
How to avoid it:

• Hang up and call the hotel’s front desk directly

• Never give payment details over the phone unless you initiated the call

7. Fake Wi-Fi Hotspots

Free public Wi-Fi that looks legitimate may be set up by scammers to intercept your data.
How to avoid it:

• Only connect to Wi-Fi you confirm with staff at a venue

• Use a VPN like NordVPN, Surfshark, or ProtonVPN to encrypt your connection

8. Pickpocket Distraction Techniques

Someone spills something on you, bumps into you, or starts a fake argument to distract you while an accomplice lifts your wallet or phone.
How to avoid it:

• Wear a crossbody bag with anti-theft features from brands like Pacsafe

• Keep valuables zipped and close to your body at all times

9. Fake Police Impersonation

A “police officer” in plain clothes stops you and demands to see your passport and wallet.
How to avoid it:

• Ask to see identification or offer to go with them to the nearest station

• Never hand over your documents unless at a staffed official location

10. Accommodation Listing Scams

On peer-to-peer sites, some listings may look real but are fake or double-booked.
How to avoid it:

• Stick to platforms with verified hosts like Airbnb or Booking.com

• Pay using trusted platforms and get rewards with a Airbnb gift card through Fluz for additional savings

Final Thoughts

Scams are more sophisticated than ever, but awareness and preparation go a long way. Trust your instincts, double-check everything, and use secure payment methods whenever possible. If you’re using digital gift cards or cashback tools like Fluz, you’ll not only save money—you’ll reduce your exposure to risky payment situations abroad.