Protect Your Wallet This Summer: How To Avoid Common Travel Scams

June 08, 2026

Unfortunately, travelers are common targets for fraud. To protect your finances and information, stay on guard throughout the whole vacation process. From fake booking websites to tourist traps, there are fraud risks at every stage. You’ve worked hard through the school year, and taking a trip is supposed to be a way to enjoy yourself and recharge. Read the following travel fraud safety tips to make sure you come home with memories and souvenirs, not security issues or financial headaches.​

Use Caution Booking and Managing Reservations

Before the trip even starts, there are ways that scammers may attempt to steal your information. When you’re booking your travel accommodations, be sure to verify that you are on the correct site. Be cautious of any communications you receive regarding your trip. Don’t click any links on suspicious communications or enter any payment information before you ensure that you are on the correct website. Scammers may try sending “flight canceled” text messages that cause you to panic if you happen to have a flight scheduled this summer. It’s always a good idea to go directly to the airline’s website if you are concerned about an issue. If a deal seems too good to be true, it might be. Be cautious of suspiciously cheap trip ads and offers, especially sent via text or email. 

Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi 

When using public Wi-Fi, be selective about which sites you visit. Logging into online banking with the hotel or airport Wi-Fi is extremely risky. Your personal information can be accessed by hackers when using public Wi-Fi. Don’t think it could happen to you? According to research from NordVPN, 25% of travelers have been hacked while using public Wi-Fi on their travels. To avoid the risk, consider using cellular data on your phone, utilizing your personal hotspot for devices, or investing in a VPN (Virtual Private Network). If you’re traveling internationally, check with your phone provider about international data plans so you can rely less on public Wi-Fi. 

Review your Bank Transactions Regularly

Travelling somewhere where pickpocketing is common? Even if you’re able to keep your physical card in sight, it’s still a good idea to stay aware of your account activity to catch fraud. Make it a habit to check your account transactions regularly during your trip. If you see something you don’t remember paying for, raising the alarm bells and freezing your card can help prevent further damage. You can manage your CASFCU accounts online anytime, anywhere with our mobile app! Be sure to enroll before you leave on your trip.

Use Secure ATMs

Not all ATMs are the same, so choose carefully if you need to withdraw cash during your travels. Look for ATMs inside banks, credit unions, or reputable businesses. Machines that are standalone or located in areas with high tourist traffic are more likely to be bugged with card-skimming devices or cameras. When traveling internationally, decline currency conversion offers at the ATM, since they often include unfavorable exchange rates and hidden fees. Instead, withdraw funds in the local currency whenever possible. As an added precaution, hide your PIN entry with your hand, and leave promptly after receiving your cash, since counting your money at the ATM could invite theft. If you will be using a debit card on your trip, make your checking account financial institution aware of your travels before your trip to avoid payment issues or fraud alerts. 

Understand Common Street Scams

Many tourist attractions have typical scams on the street or beach that locals are aware of. Do an online search before you leave on your trip to be aware of any traps. Read this Harvard Global Support article to avoid becoming a target for scammers. Stay on guard about requests from strangers, even if they appear distressed or trustworthy.

Finance Your Trip With CASFCU

It’s time to enjoy your summer break to the fullest! Chattanooga Area Schools Federal Credit Union is here to help you finance your vacation plans. You can enjoy more manageable monthly payments with terms up to 3 years, convenient online banking, and low fixed rates on a CASFCU personal loan. Submit an easy online application today to get started. 

If you have any fraud concerns while you’re on your trip, we are one call away. Stay alert, monitor your accounts, and dial (423) 624-9094 directly to reach your trusted credit union team at CASFCU.