Holiday Scams: Eight Red Flags to Watch for When Booking Your Next Getaway
As millions of Aussies start planning their dream holidays for 2026 and 2027, travel experts are sounding the alarm about a growing number of sophisticated scams designed to drain your bank account. The threat is real, with reports of travellers losing significant sums to fraudsters. Understanding these common ‘red flags’ is crucial to ensuring your next adventure isn’t ruined by a con artist.
Jane Bolton, managing director of ski holiday provider Erna Low, has highlighted the most prevalent scams targeting holidaymakers and offered practical advice on how to significantly reduce your risk. Criminals are becoming increasingly cunning, employing tactics that mimic legitimate businesses and create a false sense of urgency.
Here are eight common scams to be aware of:
1. ‘Too Good to Be True’ Deals on Social Media
An unusually cheap luxury villa or a bargain return flight advertised on social media is often a major red flag. Scammers exploit this tactic to pressure travellers into making impulsive decisions without proper consideration.
If a price seems suspiciously low compared to the going market rate, it’s wise to exercise extreme caution. Bolton advises, “Always book through reputable travel companies or trusted booking platforms that utilise secure payment systems. Never send money via bank transfer to ‘hold’ a deal.”
2. Fake Flight Cancellation Emails or Texts
Be wary of unsolicited emails or text messages claiming your flight has been cancelled or that there are hidden fees. These messages are often designed to create a false sense of urgency, prompting you to act quickly without verifying the information.
These communications can appear highly professional, sometimes even using official-looking logos to deceive recipients. Bolton’s advice is clear: “Never click on links within unexpected messages. Instead, log into your booking account directly through the official airline or travel company website to check for any updates. Legitimate airlines and reputable travel companies will not ask for sensitive details via random links.”
3. Cloned Airline or Travel Websites
Cybercriminals are adept at creating fake websites that are almost indistinguishable from those of well-known airlines and travel brands. These sites can be incredibly convincing, often differing from the genuine URL by just a single letter.
To safeguard yourself, Bolton recommends typing the official web address directly into your internet browser rather than clicking on adverts or links. “Double-check the web address carefully,” she urges. “And always use established booking channels that clearly display secure payment options and company details.”
In recent times, experts have warned of scammers specifically targeting holidaymakers on popular booking platforms. These fraudsters send false messages and emails that appear to originate from hotel accounts. Because the messages look legitimate and seem to come through the booking platform itself, many travellers are tricked into sending payments directly to the scammers. The messages typically claim the holidaymaker’s card has been declined or that their payment details need verification. The scammers then prompt travellers to enter their banking details via a fraudulent link, which is then used to steal money.
4. Requests to Make Payment Outside the Platform
A significant red flag is being asked to complete your transaction outside of a secure, official booking system. Scammers frequently cite technical glitches as an excuse to request a direct bank transfer instead.
To stay protected, it’s essential to keep all communications and payments within the official platform. This ensures you have access to booking protection, official records, and customer support should any issues arise.
This tactic is part of a broader trend where fraudsters pose as airline staff and call travellers, demanding payment for a ‘seat guarantee’ on their flight. The scam involves callers, who pretend to represent a major UK airline, claiming there’s a problem with a passenger’s seat selection, often blaming a ‘system glitch’. They then offer to secure preferred seats over the phone, but only if the traveller pays an additional fee.
5. Booking or Paying Over Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks in places like hotels and airports are often unsecured, making it easy for hackers to intercept your private data or payment information.
To avoid this risk, avoid entering sensitive details while connected to these networks. Instead, use your mobile data or a secure connection when making bookings. It’s also advisable to disable automatic Wi-Fi connections on your phone to prevent accidental connections to unsecured networks. Bolton adds, “Using a trusted VPN can provide an extra layer of security when you must access Wi-Fi in public places.”
6. Fake Travel Insurance Providers
The scams aren’t limited to flights and accommodation; fraudsters also target holidaymakers with seemingly legitimate but extremely cheap travel insurance policies that offer no actual cover. Many travellers only discover they’ve been conned when they try to make a claim.
Bolton advises, “Always check that an insurer is authorised by the relevant financial regulator before purchasing. If the price is significantly lower than all other providers, it’s definitely worth double-checking.”
7. Scam Customer Service Numbers
Scammers often create fake customer service numbers that appear prominently in search results. Their aim is to trick travellers into calling and sharing private information.
To protect yourself, always use contact information found directly on the official websites of airlines, hotels, or booking platforms. If a number seems suspicious, verify it through a trusted source before making the call.
8. Pressure Tactics and Countdown Timers
Scammers frequently employ high-pressure tactics, such as fake countdown timers and warnings of limited availability, to force travellers into paying before they have time to think or research.
Legitimate companies will not demand immediate payment without giving travellers a reasonable opportunity to review and confirm their purchase. Bolton concludes, “If you feel rushed, pause and research before committing. Your peace of mind is worth more than a perceived bargain.”
