By Rita R. Robison
Summer vacation season is here. And, if you’re lucky, you’re going to a place with great weather and adventures.
While most travelers enjoy their getaways, some unethical businesses take advantage of sun-seeking vacationers.
You can spot vacation and travel-related fraud, Steve J. Bernas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois, said in a statement.
Consumers frequently contact the BBB inquiring about travel companies that promise "too-good-to-be-true" travel deals, Bernas said. These offers often arrive unexpectedly in consumers' mailboxes or over the telephone, office fax machine, or the Internet.
Types of scams include winning a "free" trip and calling a number to claim the prize, or receiving a promotion about a vacation deal that looks like it came through inter-office channels. Others may be an offer for a travel club membership, allegedly worth thousand of dollars.
The BBB offers the following travel tips for consumers:
- Check out the company at www.bbb.org before making travel arrangements.
- Be wary of “great deals” and low-priced offers.
- Ask detailed questions about specific travel arrangements and lodging. Find out exactly what’s included in the offer.
- Get all information in writing before you agree to buy. Be sure to read and understand all agreements, guarantees, and instructions before signing.
- Don’t send money by messenger or overnight mail.
- Don’t be pressured into agreeing to a travel-related offer.
“There are many reliable travel agencies and bureaus that offer good deals on vacations,” said Bernas. “Consumers need to research all companies before doing business with them to help ensure safe transactions.”
For more information on staying safe when traveling, visit www.bbb.org.
