Caravan scams double as more choose staycations

CARAVAN scams have doubled as criminals increasingly prey on staycationers, research has found.

Holiday frauds have risen by a third since April last year, according to Lloyds Bank, with scams linked to fake caravan bookings rising by more than 100 per cent. The average victim lost £374 to such scams, as fraudsters took advantage of households booking trips within the UK to keep costs down and avoid complex Covid travel requirements.

Delays at the Passport Office have also forced thousands to cancel plans to holiday abroad and book last-minute domestic trips. Airlines have also reduced flights amid ongoing staff shortages. Paul Charles, of travel consultancy the PC Agency, said many people were out of practice when booking holidays, leaving them vulnerable to fraudsters.

“It’s been easier for scammers to take advantage and obtain key personal information from consumers desperate for help when booking trips,” he said.

Travellers who fell victim to fake flight booking scams, which increased by 13 per cent in the past year, lost £2,955 on average.

Liz Ziegler, of Lloyds Bank, said: “With demand soaring and prices rising fast, holidaymakers can’t afford to let their guard down when hunting for the best deals.”

She advised travellers to book directly through trusted sites or travel agents and avoid following links on social media.