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VIDEO: Vacationers Be Wary, FTC Offers Tips On How To Avoid Being Scammed This Summer

By  //  July 5, 2016

research and follow-up go a long way

ABOVE VIDEO: The Better Business Bureau offers their advice on the Top 5 Summer Scams (BBB Video)

BREVARD COUNTY,  FLORIDA –  So, who’s ready for a summer break? Maybe you’re planning to frolic by the seashore, chill out in the mountains, or take in the sights and sounds of the big city. Just remember — scammers don’t take a vacation.

Below are some ways not to get caught up in some common pitfalls with your travel plans.

Research goes a long way

Ask family and friends about the transportation companies and hotels they use and like. Then, look online to see what people are saying about them. Travel apps can be a big help, too. But if you’re making plans online, call the companies (the airlines and hotels) to verify your reservations and arrangements. Pay by credit card, if you can — it gives you more protection than paying by cash or check.

Check it out before you check in

Call the hotel and ask about a “resort fee” or any other mandatory charge. These fees — for things like fitness facilities or internet access — add to the cost of your stay, and you have to pay them whether or not you use the services. Many people don’t find out about the fees until they’ve already checked in.

Have reservations about a charter travel package? 

With charter packages, you pay a tour operator who has reserved hotel rooms and a plane to fly you and the other charter travelers to your destination. Some charters turn out to be scams, and you won’t get what you paid for.

CLICK HERE for tips to make sure a charter package is the real deal.

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Looking to rent a vacation property?

If you find something you like in rental listings, it’s well worth the effort to slow down and dig a little deeper. The surest sign of a scam is if they ask you to wire money to pay a security deposit, application fee, or vacation rental fee — even if they send you a contract first.

Send us a “postcard.” CLICK HERE If you think you’ve been taken by a travel scam.

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