10 Common Scams to Look Out For While Traveling – And How Not to Fall

Today, I want to talk about a rarely discussed but important issue that does not happen until someone’s money disappears like a network during a video call. I’m talking about common scams to look out for while traveling.

You see, traveling is beautiful, exciting, and full of memories. But some memories you don’t want, especially the ones where someone tricks you out of your hard-earned money. That one no sweet at all.

Whether you are traveling within Nigeria, heading to Ghana, strolling through Europe, or flexing in Dubai, you must shine your eyes like torchlight during NEPA failure. Scammers don’t carry face. They can be well-dressed, smiling, and even speak the Queen’s English with confidence. But fear not! Your travel buddy (a.k.a. me) is here to expose them like last election results.

So here we go: common scams to look out for while traveling, and how to dodge them like Lagos potholes.

Common Scams to Look Out For While Traveling

1. The “Free” Bracelet or Gift Scam

You are walking peacefully, admiring the city, when someone (usually cheerful and overly friendly) approaches you and says, “You look like you need some good luck!” Before you say Jack Robinson, they have tied a bracelet on your wrist or handed you a souvenir. Then, boom, they start demanding money, sometimes aggressively.

How to Avoid It:

Don’t accept “gifts” from strangers. If someone tries to tie anything on you, pull back gently but firmly and walk away fast. Free things can be expensive.

2. Taxi Overcharging or Meter Tampering

This one is very common. A taxi driver picks you up, and instead of using the meter, he gives you a “special price,” which just happens to be five times the actual rate. Some even use rigged meters that jump faster than your heartbeat during a horror movie.

How to Avoid It:

Use ride apps like Uber or Bolt where possible. If you must use a local taxi, agree on the price before you enter. Better still, ask your hotel or host about the normal fare range.

3. The Friendly Local Who Offers to Help

You will meet someone who seems helpful. They might offer to guide you to the train station or help you use the ATM. Some even pretend they want to practice English with you. Before you know it, they have led you to a shady place or given you “advice” that benefits their accomplices.

How to Avoid It:

Be polite but cautious. Accept help only in public, well-lit areas. If someone insists too much, tell them you are okay and walk away. You are a tourist, not a mumu.

4. The Closed Hotel or Attraction Scam

You arrive at your hotel or a tourist site, and someone nearby says, “Ah! This place is closed today! But I know a better one.” Of course, the “better one” is owned by their cousin or is a location where they get commission, and you will likely pay extra for less.

How to Avoid It:

Always confirm opening times with official websites or call directly. Don’t take street announcements as gospel truth. This one no be church.

5. Currency Exchange Trickery

Some shady street exchangers will flash you attractive rates. You give them your money, and they do abracadabra – either give you counterfeit notes, shortchange you, or mix up currencies you didn’t even ask for.

How to Avoid It:

Use official exchange bureaus, banks, or ATMs. If someone is waving cash and whispering like a secret agent, just pass them like a bad market.

Read also: Solo Travel Tips for Female Travelers: Explore the World Like the Bold Queen

6. Fake Police Officers

This one is scary and clever. Someone in a “uniform” approaches you, flashes a badge and says they need to see your passport or wallet for “security reasons.” Next thing, your valuables are gone like meat in a pot at midnight.

How to Avoid It:

Never hand over your documents or money to random people claiming to be police. Ask for ID and say you’d prefer to go to the police station directly. Most fake officers will back off once they know you are not a bushmeat tourist.

7. Pickpocketing in Crowded Areas

This is the classic! In markets, public transport, or even in front of the Eiffel Tower, someone might “accidentally” bump into you. Meanwhile, your phone, wallet, or passport is already on its way to another continent.

How to Avoid It:

Keep your valuables in zipped bags and wear your backpack in front if necessary. Don’t keep your phone in your back pocket. That’s not a pocket, it is a donation box.

8. The Wi-Fi Scam

You connect to free public Wi-Fi, thinking you are smart for saving data. But some of these Wi-Fi spots are traps, set up to steal your personal information.

How to Avoid It:

Use a VPN when connecting to public networks. Avoid logging into your bank or sensitive apps on public Wi-Fi. Better to spend a little data than lose your life savings.

9. Fake Tickets and Tours

Some people will sell you “discount” tickets to tourist attractions or bus rides. When you get there, you will realize you bought a beautifully printed nonsense.

How to Avoid It:

Always buy tickets from official websites or certified vendors. Cheap can be expensive. Don’t let the packaging fool you.

10. The ATM Helper Scam

Someone offers to help you withdraw money from the ATM, claiming the machine is tricky. Before you say “Jesus is Lord,” your card is gone, or they have spied on your PIN.

How to Avoid It:

Never let anyone near you when withdrawing money. Cover your PIN like it is a national secret. Use ATMs attached to banks when possible.

Travel Smart, Shine Your Eye!

My dear fellow traveler, common scams to look out for are everywhere, even in places that look like paradise. But with a little caution, you can enjoy your trip without becoming a victim. Scammers feed on distraction, confusion, and kindness. Hence, stay alert, act confident (even when you are lost), and trust your gut. If something smells fishy and there is no suya in sight, walk away.

Traveling is meant to be fun, not frustrating. Don’t let these small-time con artists mess with your vibe. If you have ever fallen victim to one of these scams, don’t be ashamed. It happens to even the sharpest people. The goal is to learn, laugh, and level up for your next adventure.

Let me know in the comments: Have you ever been scammed while traveling? Or do you have a funny travel mistake that made you wiser? Share below so we can all laugh and learn together.