PLANNING the perfect getaway for your BC Day long weekend? Get all the tips and tricks for safe and secure travel that’ll help you make the most of your holiday.
In advance of your long weekend escape, the Better Business Bureau is sharing tips on how to save money, travel safely, and avoid scams.
“Long weekends are prime time for possible travel scams,” shares Neesha Hothi, Director of Marketing at the Better Business Bureau serving Mainland BC.
“Trying to make reservations last minute or making big changes in your plans may lead to jumping at deals that might just be too good to be true. It’s important to trust your gut if you see any red flags about offers or deals as they can be possible scams. In 2023, Canadians lost over $300,000 to reported travel scams and we want to help you avoid being a part of that statistic.”
The BBB offers the following tips to help ensure an enjoyable vacation:
1. Too good to be true? It probably is.
Scams are everywhere. Be on alert for phone calls, texts, letters, or emails claiming a ‘free trip’ or other ‘offers’. Trust your gut: if the offer looks too good to be true, it probably is.
There continue to be reports of scammers pretending to be legitimate online airline ticket brokers or official third-party booking sites. If you’re booking with a company you’re not familiar with, do your due diligence and research the company first. A quick search on BBB.org will show company reviews and more information.
2. Plan ahead.
Allow plenty of time to research hotels, flights, and your destination. Typically, the earlier reservations are made, the better the deals and the lower the risk of the destination being booked solid. Not everything needs to be done online,
speak with a reputable travel agency near you and book your vacation with confidence.
Starting your search with the BBB can help you find reputable travel agencies, agents, and websites ensuring you work with trusted professionals.
3. Watch out for third-party travel sites.
Some pop-up ads or search engine results can take you to websites that look official but are designed solely to rip people off. These lookalike sites mimic legitimate company to trick the consumer they are booking with a reputable brand. By sure to watch for the details – is the logo clear, is the website URL the same, can you go to the primary website and find the same deal?
4. Use a credit card and have travel insurance.
Travel insurance is a smart investment incase of cancellations and unforeseen circumstances. Certain credit cards will also provide additional travel insurance should something go awry during your travels. Most importantly, if you are scammed but used your credit card to pay then you have a higher chance of getting your money back.
Use the BBB Scam Tracker to look-up and check any ongoing scams. This program was named the Best Scam Fighting Tool of 2023 and it’s here to help.
