There’s nothing more exciting than planning your next big vacation. Whether you’re dreaming of turquoise beaches or European cobblestone streets, hiring a travel agency can make the process less stressful and more seamless.
In 2024, about 1.4 billion people around the world travelled internationally. Around 119.3 million Americans travelled during the 2024 holiday season alone. Travel remains a top priority in 2025 as well with reports showing that 92 percent of Americans plan to take a trip this year.
But amidst all that excitement, falling into the hands of a fraudulent travel agency can bring your travel plans crashing down. Scams are unfortunately all too common, and fraudsters are getting better at disguising themselves as legitimate businesses.
That’s why, before booking anything, you need to know how to protect yourself. Here’s how.
Look at the Banks That Work with the Agency
One often overlooked but powerful way to assess a travel agency’s legitimacy is by checking who they bank with. Financial institutions are selective about the businesses they choose to work with, especially those in sectors prone to fraud like travel services.
If a travel agency claims to be well-established, it’s fair to ask what bank handles their business accounts. Agencies working with respected, mainstream banks usually undergo a basic level of scrutiny to even open an account.
The reason this matters lies in the know-your-business or KYB verification process that banks perform. As part of KYB compliance, banks are required to investigate and verify the legitimacy of a business. Only then will the bank allow it to open a corporate account or access more complex financial services.
As AU10TIX points out, the KYB process involves reviewing KYB data like the company’s registration and financials. This level of vetting helps banks detect potential involvement in financial crimes and avoid problematic business relationships.
By verifying a travel agency’s relationship with a credible bank, you’re indirectly confirming that the agency has passed through this protective layer. This, in turn, helps you mitigate risks and feel more secure about your decision.
Ask for Official Business Documentation
If you feel uneasy about a travel agency, don’t hesitate to ask for documentation that proves their legitimacy. Real businesses are used to providing this kind of information and won’t make you feel awkward for asking.
A legitimate travel agency should have a valid business license, tax identification number, and proof of registration in their operating country. If they hesitate or give vague responses, consider it a red flag.
You can go a step further by cross-checking this information with online government business registries. In many countries, you can search for a business name and instantly see whether it’s in good standing. Some directories also list whether the business has complaints filed against it or if its license has expired.
Pay Attention to the Payment Methods They Accept
Another subtle clue that can help you spot a fraudulent agency is the type of payment methods they accept. Be cautious if the agency insists on bank transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps that don’t offer buyer protection.
Legitimate agencies usually offer credit card payments or use trusted payment gateways like Stripe or PayPal. These platforms provide convenience and also protect consumers through dispute and chargeback options if anything goes wrong.
Scammers often avoid credit cards and other traceable payment methods because they don’t want a paper trail. When in doubt, always choose the payment option that gives you the most protection.
Research Their Online Presence and Customer Reviews
A real travel agency will leave a digital trail. Start with their website and check how professional it looks, whether it has contact information, and if it lists a physical address. Then, look them up on Google, social media, and review platforms like Trustpilot or Yelp.
While every company may have a few unhappy customers, a pattern of vague or overly positive reviews is often a giveaway that something’s off.
Authentic customer reviews usually share specific details like how helpful the agent was and whether any problems were resolved professionally. On the other hand, fake reviews often sound robotic or generic, and they sometimes appear in clusters posted within days of each other.
Test Their Knowledge and Customer Support
How a travel agency communicates before a sale tells a lot about how they’ll handle things if something goes wrong during the trip.
Call or email them with a few specific questions about your destination. Ask about travel restrictions, suggested hotels, the best times to travel. A legitimate agency will provide thoughtful answers based on experience or research. A scammer, on the other hand, may reply with vague promises or try to rush you into a booking.
Also, observe how quickly they respond and whether they’re easy to reach. If you keep getting voicemails or their replies seem copy-pasted, it could indicate a lack of professionalism or authenticity.
Real agencies take pride in their customer service, and they understand that trust starts with good communication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do scammers often target travellers?
Scammers target travellers because they’re often unfamiliar with local customs, prices, and surroundings. This vulnerability makes it easier to exploit their trust or confusion. Tourists also tend to carry cash or valuables, making them attractive targets. In high-traffic tourist areas, scams are frequent and often go unreported.
How do notorious travel agencies scam you?
Notorious travel agencies may scam you by advertising fake deals, charging hidden fees, or cancelling trips without refunds. Some sell packages with misleading descriptions or non-existent accommodations. Others use pressure tactics to lock you into non-refundable payments.
How can you find a good and authentic travel agency?
To find a reputable travel agency, check verified reviews on trusted platforms and look for affiliations with professional travel associations. Authentic agencies have clear policies, contact information, and a physical office or official website. Ask for referrals from frequent travellers. Transparency and responsive communication are key indicators of reliability.
The travel industry is one of the sectors most vulnerable to fraud. In 2024, scams rose 18% during the summer peak and 28% in winter. Fraudulent travel agencies rely on the fact that people are eager to book and are not always careful in checking the fine details.
That’s why it’s so important to slow down and verify. If something doesn’t sit right, trust your gut and keep looking. There are plenty of real, capable agencies out there ready to help you have the trip of a lifetime without the headache of fraud.
Leave a Reply