As part of her ongoing Holiday Scams Campaign, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is re-issuing her Travel Tips alert to help consumers avoid falling victim to common travel scams. As many Michiganders plan trips during the holiday season, they should beware of bad actors when booking and taking vacations.
“Traveling should be a time of joy and relaxation, not stress and scams,” said Nessel. “Remaining informed and cautious can help you protect your trip and your wallet. My office is committed to helping Michigan residents stay one step ahead of bad actors this holiday season.”
Whether booking online or through a travel agent, Nessel encourages travelers to:
- Research agents and booking sites: Verify phone numbers and websites independently rather than relying on web search results. Check reviews, seek personal recommendations and consult the Better Business Bureau as well as the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team for information.
- Get promises in writing: Request that all agreements be provided in writing, including any special requests or terms.
- Read contracts carefully: Pay close attention to fine print, fees, and service charges, especially for “all-inclusive” deals. Make copies of all documents to dispute any unexpected fees.
- Pay with a credit card: Avoid paying for travel with cash, checks, or prepaid cards. Use a credit card, if possible, preferably a designated travel credit card for booking flights, hotels, and other expenses. Credit cards offer better fraud and cancellation protections than other payment methods.
Attorney General Nessel’s alert lists some common travel scams that travelers should avoid, such as:
- Online Booking Scams: Ensure you are booking directly on the hotel’s official website. Third-party booking sites may charge hidden fees, fail to honor special requests, or even fail to make a reservation altogether.
- “Pizza Flyer” Scam: Flyers slipped under hotel doors that advertise local food delivery may be fraudulent. When ordering, never give your credit card information to unknown sources.
- Fake Front Desk Calls: Scammers may call your hotel room claiming to be from the front desk and request your credit card information due to a “computer glitch.” Always verify by calling the front desk directly.
- Bait-and-Switch Tactics: Be wary of offers with unrealistically low prices that result in additional charges or pressure to buy more expensive services.
For additional resources, visit Pure Michigan for travel tips within the state. The Transportation Security Administration and the U.S. State Department also provide valuable information for domestic and international travelers.
If you believe you have been a victim of a travel scam, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
