Consumers across Wisconsin are planning winter, spring and summer vacations with their friends and families. To protect their wallets and identities, there are best practices consumers should keep in mind while booking flights, lodging, and other travel plans. Be wary of vacation lodging scams found on apps, social media, and other platforms that allow owners to rent out their houses and other lodging properties directly to consumers. Sometimes, the property may not exist at all. Other times, the promotional photos are misleading, leaving the consumer with poor quality lodging compared to what they believed they were paying for.
Perform an internet search for the property’s name and address before you book. Try combining it with words like “Review” and “Scam” to see if any concerning results come up.
Do not move your conversation off the platform where it started. If you found a property on an app, contact the host only through the app – not social media or text messages.
Be cautious if you are asked to pay with cash, cryptocurrency, gift cards, wire transfers, or other forms of non-reversible payment. Using a credit card is the most secure option for consumers.
Obtain written record of the cancellation policy and make sure you understand it.
Understand what exactly is being reserved.
o Are you guaranteed specific accommodations, or is a non-specific room being held?
o If booking a service or attraction, are there additional terms/conditions?
If you are taking a flight…
Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover costs associated with flight delays. Some airlines may offer vouchers if flights are delayed. Know the airline’s policies before you book.
Consider booking a hotel near the airport with a free cancelation policy in case your flight is delayed.
Keep contact info for any trip reservations in case they need to be altered or cancelled.
Know your rights. Airlines must:
o Offer refunds for cancelled or significantly delayed flights
o Locate lost luggage, and repair or reimburse any damage to luggage in their possession
o Compensate passengers for reasonable and verifiable incidental expenses caused by luggage delay or loss
o Comply with the Air Carrier Access Act and federal DOT rules that protect passengers with disabilities
Learn more online at www.transportation.gov/airconsumer.
