Vacations

Overview

The world we all live in has a lot to offer: classic cities with iconic landmarks, adventurous regions where nature is at your doorstep, amazing honeymoon spots that create lifelong memories, thrilling ski retreats and so many other places that are worth to be discovered and explored.

Vacation booking websites offer an endless amount of exciting options both in the U.S. and globally, that can suit any individual, couple, family or group’s needs and wants.
These deals bundle the necessary package components that combine flights, hotels and sometimes even car rental.

The leading travel sites are packed with many vacation ideas that include both the most sought-after destinations around the globe and little-known gems, which are great for those who look for something different or unique.

From a romantic vacation on a remote island’s beach and a selection of all-inclusive luxury resorts in exotic and unusual locations to great family-friendly destinations and relaxing weekend getaways – there’s always something for everyone.

The major players in this industry are offering everything from cheap packages to expensive ultimate dream-vacation options – for those with deeper pockets.
They also offer many last-minute offers, which enable spontaneous travelers to save money and take advantage of significant discounts.

Consumer Tips: How to Avoid Vacation Booking Scams Online

Just like any other sector that involves consumers, businesses, and money that switches hands, the online vacation reservation market also has its fair share of scammers, fraudsters and cybercriminals that operate online and look for potential victims.

Scammers use a variety of illegal, unethical or dishonest ways to take advantage of unsuspecting vacationers, who want to take a well-deserved break from work, daily responsibilities, and life routine.

Some “travel clubs” promise extensive discounts on hotels, air tickets and fancy cruises to the people who join them – but fail to deliver the expected benefits.
Consumers whom the pay high annual membership fees are often shocked to discover the ‘special prices’ they’re getting are not that different from those normally available to buy online by anyone.

In addition, fake vacation websites that usually offer unrealistically cheap deals, use sophisticated criminal methods – such as phishing, to con consumers and steal their identities, money or both.

Taking these steps will help you find more credible and reliable vacation booking services and complete your reservation in a safe, secure and satisfactory way:

Use Trusted Travel Companies

Avoid using unknown third-party services, especially those who advertise dirt-cheap packages that may appear as a bargain of a lifetime, at first glance.
These services are often no more than carefully-crafted scams.

Investigate the Vacation Booking Site’s BBB Record

Check the travel website’s record on the Better Business Bureau’s website.
What you’ll find there, will help you evaluate whether it’s a legitimate business that deserves your money and trust or if you must look elsewhere.

Look for current BBB rating, customer reviews, complaints, warnings and alerts on their business profile.
Also, learn how long it has been in business – a potential indicator of experience and reputation.

If the company is not even listed with the BBB, this is a very bad sign.
On the other hand, if the vacation website is certified as a BBB Accredited Business, it’s an important positive signal.

Pay Close Attention to Red Flags

Learn how to protect yourself better when ordering goods and services on the internet, to avoid scammers and keep safe in general.
Knowing how to check if a website is legitimate or not is the first line of defense.