Holiday scams are surging, with fraudsters targeting every stage of the travel journey. Here’s how to spot the red flags and protect yourself before it’s too late.
You spent days researching holidays, scouring websites for flight and accommodation deals, nailing the paperwork, and snapping up a last-minute bargain. Bags packed and boarding pass in hand, everything seemed set – until you reached your destination and realised there was no room at the inn. In fact, the inn never even existed.
It’s a common tale for far too many travellers. And sadly, only a minority – 4% according to the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA) – are likely to ever recover their losses, with slightly better chances if you’re based in the US or UK.
Eye-watering losses
Scammers stole more than $1 trillion from victims worldwide in 2024, with the GASA naming travel as one of the hardest-hit sectors. This year, an estimated $25 million will be lost to online travel fraud this year, potentially affecting as many as one in five travel bookings.
“South Africa is seeing a sharp rise in travel-related scams too – everything from fake accommodation listings to phishing emails posing as major booking platforms,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager at Flight Centre South Africa.
“Criminals are getting smarter – helped by AI – so travellers need to be super vigilant.”
To avoid falling victim, Turner offers the following practical tips for safer, scam-free travel:
1. Stick to trusted sites and double-check URLs
Many scams now begin with professional-looking emails, ads, or WhatsApp messages offering unbeatable deals – often generated with the help of AI, which makes them harder than ever to spot. Always access booking platforms by typing their address directly into your browser – never click on links. Look for secure URLs starting with “https” and be wary of sites with small spelling variations or unusual domains.
2. Use credit cards, not EFTs
“If a deal looks too good to be true, it usually is,” Turner warns. “Trust your instincts and don’t be rushed into making payments outside trusted channels.” If you pay by credit card, you may be able to issue a chargeback, but once cash has been transferred via EFT, it’s usually too late.
3. Don’t go off-platform
Whether you’re using Airbnb, Booking.com, or Lekkeslaap, stick to their in-app messaging and payment systems. Scammers try to lure users onto WhatsApp or email with promises of discounts for direct bookings – a major red flag. Legitimate hosts will never ask you to communicate or pay outside the official platform.
4. Watch out for urgency tactics
Scammers rely on pressure tactics: a too-good-to-miss discount, a warning that your reservation is at risk, or a countdown timer to “secure your booking”. Step back and verify everything.
5. Check credentials and look for logos – then verify
Scammers are likely to fake affiliations with well-known local or international brands into feeling reassured. Don’t take their word for it. Use official directories to verify that the travel agency or operator is genuinely accredited before paying.
6. Spot fake reviews
Red flags include overly positive reviews for the same accommodation across multiple platforms – especially generic ones (fives stars, no detail) with poor grammar. On the flip side, pay attention to negative reviews or warnings about potential scams – as this is a clear sign from others to exercise caution.
Social media is another common entry point. Action Fraud in the UK reports that more than half of holiday scams now start on platforms like Facebook or Instagram.
“Scammers are exploiting every part of the booking journey – from flights and accommodation to post-trip refund scams,” Turner says. “A holiday should be a time to relax, not the start of a financial disaster. Consider using a reputable travel advisor, give them your budget, and they will be able to source the best deals – and trusted accommodation – to suit your needs. And always, always question offers that seem too good to be true. Vigilance is your best protection.”
Remember: always pack a healthy dose of scepticism along with your passport – and take a moment to question everything.
FLIGHT CENTRE TRAVEL GROUP SOUTH AFRICA
Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) SA is part of Flight Centre Travel Group, an Australia-based international travel company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, with a market cap of AU$2.69 billion and a current share price of AU$12.24 as of 27 June 2025. FCTG with three leading brands: Flight Centre, Corporate Traveller and FCM, of which Corporate Traveller and FCM are proud level 1 BBBEE Contributors. FCTG SA is wholly owned and has been recognised as one of Deloitte’s Best Companies to Work for in South Africa for over a decade.
