Top 10 Tourist Scams That Happen Overseas — And How to Avoid Them

The 10 Biggest Scams When Traveling Overseas (And How to Avoid Them)

When you're traveling abroad, especially on a budget, the last thing you want is to lose money to some slick local running a scam. At SM Travel Co, we're all about giving you the real experience—no fluff, no overpaying, and definitely no getting played. So here are the top 10 scams you need to be ready for when you're out there living your best life overseas:

1. The “Free” Bracelet or Trinket Scam

You’re walking down a street in Paris, Rome, or Cairo. Someone walks up to you with a bracelet, necklace, or souvenir and insists it's a gift. Next thing you know, they're demanding money, calling you rude, and making a scene.

How to handle it: Never accept anything from a street vendor's hand. Keep walking. If it ends up on your wrist—take it off and drop it immediately.

2. The “Let Me Take Your Picture” Trap

In touristy areas, someone might offer to take a photo of you with your phone or camera. Sounds nice, right? Until they hold your device hostage for a tip—or worse, sprint off with it.

Play it smart: Ask someone who clearly looks like another tourist or use your phone’s timer. Guard your gear.

3. The Currency Switch

You hand over cash, they “accidentally” give you the wrong change. Or worse, you pay with a big bill and they claim you gave them a smaller one. Sometimes they even pull a switch and hand back fake bills.

Your move: Always count your change slowly and out loud. Learn the local currency denominations before you even leave the airport.

4. Fake Taxis & Rigged Meters

You hop into a cab, and either the meter is rigged, or there’s “no meter” at all—so they charge you 5x the real price. Sometimes the taxi isn't even licensed.

Avoid it: Only use official taxi services or ride apps. Negotiate the fare before getting in if there's no meter. If it feels shady, it is.

5. The “Closed Hotel” Lie

You tell your cabbie your hotel name, and suddenly—it's “closed” or “fully booked.” But hey, he “knows a better one.” You end up in an overpriced dump with someone getting a commission off your ignorance.

Solution: Book ahead. Show them the address and tell them to take you only there. Be firm.

6. The Distraction Pickpocket

Someone “accidentally” spills a drink on you. Or a child asks you for help. While you're distracted, their partner lifts your wallet or phone.

Your defense: Wear a money belt or crossbody with zippers. Don’t keep valuables in your back pocket. Stay aware—always.

7. Overpriced “Local” Tours

You’ll see people on the street or near hostels offering a “secret tour” or “local experience.” You pay upfront and either get ghosted or end up in a tourist trap.

Game plan: Use vetted platforms or your hotel/hostel to book tours. Always check reviews online before paying.

8. The “Help Me Sign a Petition” Scam

Someone hands you a clipboard for a “noble cause.” The moment you sign, they start demanding donations. Some are even pickpockets using the moment to rob you.

Keep it moving: Politely decline and don’t engage. You're not here to save the world—you’re here to travel smart.

9. The Rental Damage Scam

You rent a scooter, bike, or ATV. When you bring it back, they “find” scratches or damage you didn’t do—and demand cash.

Insurance mindset: Always take photos of the vehicle before leaving the lot. Video every angle. If they try to pull one on you, show the receipts—literally.

10. The Wi-Fi Trap

Free public Wi-Fi sounds nice, but hackers set up fake networks to steal your data. You connect, log into your bank app, and boom—your money's gone.

Protect yourself: Use a VPN (seriously, it's like $3 a month). Avoid logging into financial apps on open networks.

Final Thoughts

Traveling doesn’t mean turning off your brain. If something feels off, trust that instinct. At SM Travel Co, we believe you can travel far and wide without getting ripped off—just pack some common sense along with your passport.

Want custom travel planning that keeps your budget tight and your experience top-tier? We’ve got you. Let the scammers try—they won’t get a dime from you.