How to keep your vacation stress free
School is out, summer is almost here, and we’re hitting one of the peak times for vacation planning. As you’re making your plans for some fun and relaxation, be sure to do your research and stay alert so you can keep your trip as stress free as possible.
According to data provided to
BBB Scam Tracker, the amount of money lost by U.S. consumers has been growing each year, with a median loss of nearly $700 in 2022. The Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Sentinel Network reports travelrelated fraud cost
U.S. consumers $105.1 million in losses and accounted for 16% of all fraud reported to the agency in 2022.
When planning an event or looking for a good deal for a family vacation or getaway, be careful with tempting offers for vacation packages or other deals at unrealistically low prices. This includes third-party booking companies who offer to manage your vacation planning. While some of these offers may be valid, you’ll want to do considerable research and document all details to help identify the great offers from the bad deals. BBB.org is a great place to start. You can check out companies and find reputable travel agencies, hotels, rental car agencies and other travel related businesses.
BBB adds the following tips to help ensure an enjoyable vacation:
›Plan ahead. Allow plenty of time to research hotels, flights and your stay area. Typically, the earlier reservations are made, the better the deals and the lower the risk of the destination being booked solid. Making reservations in advance also locks in rates and prevents higher prices later during prime spring break, peak summer or holiday travel seasons.
›Avoid broad internet searches. Entering phrases like “best deals” into a search engine can sometimes bring up websites that look official or sound similar to well known, reputable brands but are designed solely to get your money with little or no value in return. Be sure to double check website links and know which site you are searching.
›Be alert for travel scams. Watch out for phone calls or letters claiming a “free trip” or websites offering prices that appear too good to be true. It’s easy to extend questionable offers like these, but most leave hopeful travelers in limbo — and out of money. › Do your homework. Ask family and friends to recommend a travel agent or website and visit BBB.org for free business profiles and to locate BBB-accredited businesses offering those services. Research each business you’re considering and read complaint details and customer reviews about any rentals under consideration.
› Get trip details in writing. Before making any payments, be sure you have all trip details in writing. This should include the total cost, restrictions, cancellation penalties and names of the airlines and hotels. It’s highly recommended that you verify your reservations directly with the airlines and hotels to ensure the bookings are in place and confirm again just before your departure. Review and keep a copy of airline and hotel cancellation and refund policies, as well as the cancellation policies of the travel agency or booking site used.
›Consider travel insurance. Travel insurance covers things like trip cancellations or medical emergencies. There are various levels of coverage based on what type of plan purchased. Ask questions, and always read the fine print to see what’s covered and what’s not before deciding to purchase a plan.
›Pay with a credit card. Paying with a credit card provides additional protection if something should go wrong with the travel reservation.
Planning to travel internationally? Check to see if any advisories affect Canada and the U.S. Travel Association for any issues that may affect the trip.
No matter when or where you are traveling, take extra precautions to protect yourself:
›Wait to post on social media. It’s fun to post adventures with friends and family, but wait until getting back from the trip. Photos and social media posts of the family having a fun time also lets thieves know the house is empty.
›Check your home insurance. If your home will be unattended while away, make sure you know your responsibilities under your home insurance policy. Some policies do not cover damage if nobody checks on your home for a while.
›Share a copy of the itinerary with a family member or close friend. Include the contact information of someone joining you on your trip.
›Take a map. People rely heavily on smartphones and GPS. Consider having an atlas or hard copy map just in case of technical difficulties.
›Check the weather conditions where you will be traveling and pack appropriate supplies and clothing.
›Avoid traveling alone. Use the buddy system and stick with the group.
›Use a hotel safe to store extra cash and keep valuables under lock and key.
You can find more information at BBB’s travel HQ , including BBB’s tips on travel insurance and additional advice when searching for a trustworthy travel agent.