Free Travel Scam Prevention Checklist

50+ actionable items covering every stage of your trip — from pre-departure to coming home. Print it, screenshot it, or save it to your phone.

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✓Before You Leave

Research the top 5 scams in your destination country

Make photocopies of your passport, visa, and insurance card

Store copies in cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud)

Note your bank's international emergency number

Enable transaction notifications on all cards

Get travel insurance with scam/theft coverage

Tell your bank which countries you are visiting

Download offline maps for your destination

Research official taxi apps (Uber, Grab, Bolt) for your destination

Note the tourist police number for your destination

✓At the Airport

Ignore anyone who approaches you inside the terminal

Use only official taxi ranks or pre-booked transfers

Exchange only a small amount of cash at the airport

Use ATMs inside the bank terminal, not standalone machines

Keep your luggage with you at all times

Verify the official airport Wi-Fi name before connecting

✓In the City

Keep your wallet in your front pocket

Wear your bag on your front in crowded areas

Never hand your passport to a rental company — offer a copy

Photograph rental vehicles before and after use

Always insist on a running taxi meter

Confirm rideshare driver's name and plate before getting in

Pay with credit card where possible (better fraud protection)

Always choose local currency when paying by card abroad

Never sign anything on the street

Keep your hands in your pockets near street performers

✓Accommodation

Book through official platforms only (Booking.com, Airbnb)

Never pay for accommodation outside the booking platform

Verify your booking directly with the hotel after booking

Never give credit card details over the hotel room phone

Use the hotel safe for your passport and backup card

Reverse image search Airbnb listing photos before booking

✓Online Safety

Use a VPN on all public Wi-Fi

Only apply for visas through official government websites

Never click links in booking confirmation emails — log in directly

Use a credit card (not debit) for all online travel bookings

Enable two-factor authentication on your email and banking apps

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Related Resources

What To Do If You've Been Scammed Country Scam Guides Travel Safety Gear Reviews Travel Insurance Guide