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Staying safe while travelling isn’t just about locking your luggage or avoiding dodgy neighbourhoods; it’s about staying ahead of the scammers targeting travellers at every stage. Over the years of extensive travel, we’ve seen scams become more sophisticated and frequent.
If you’re over 50, scammers may assume you’re more trusting, less tech-savvy, or simply less aware of suspicious situations. But being aware of the most common scams and how to avoid them is one of the best ways to travel with confidence and peace of mind.
In this guide, we outline the most common travel scams we’ve seen, explain how they work, and share smart habits to avoid them. Before diving into specific scams, we’ll first highlight those you might encounter even before your trip begins.
What it is:
These sites look legitimate, offering flights, accommodation, or tours, but they’re built to steal your money or personal information. Some mimic real travel brands, using lookalike URLs and logos. Others use fake “last-minute” deals to pressure you into acting fast.
Why it targets travellers:
When planning a trip, you’re likely price-checking across multiple sites. It’s easy to miss the signs, especially when you’re excited about a deal or unfamiliar with scam warning flags.
✅ How to avoid it:
What it is:
Scam websites or cold callers may offer fake travel insurance policies that look legitimate but provide no actual coverage. These scammers often mimic real companies, use official-sounding names, or promise rock-bottom prices to draw you in.
Some victims only discover the scam when they try to make a claim and find there’s no record of their policy or that the company doesn’t exist.
Why it targets travellers:
Many travellers, especially first-time or infrequent ones, leave insurance to the last minute. That’s when scammers pounce, offering “urgent” or “expedited” coverage that seems cheap and fast.
✅ How to avoid it:
What it is:
Scammers create unofficial websites offering to “help” you apply for a travel visa, entry permit, or ESTA. Some are outright fraudulent and steal your information. Others submit your application but charge extra fees for something you could do yourself for a fraction of the cost (or even for free).
These sites often appear in top search results or look deceptively official.
Why it targets travellers:
Many travellers unfamiliar with government websites search “how to get a visa for [country]” and click the first link. Scammers know this and advertise fake or overpriced services that exploit the confusion.
✅ How to avoid it:
💡 For example, Australians can check visa and entry requirements through the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website, or by going directly to the embassy or consulate of the destination country. Wherever you’re based, your own government’s travel advisory site is the best place to start.
What it is:
Classic but still incredibly common, pickpocketing happens when thieves take advantage of crowded, chaotic spaces to quietly steal valuables like wallets, phones, or passports. Scammers often work in teams using distraction techniques like “accidental” bumps, spilt drinks, or overly helpful strangers to divert your attention.
Why it targets travellers:
Tourist hotspots, busy transport hubs, and popular attractions are prime pickpocket zones. Thieves know visitors are distracted, often carrying valuables, and may be unfamiliar with local risks, making them ideal targets. Over‑50 travellers can be perceived as especially vulnerable because they may be less aware of quick, subtle tactics.
Global Scam Hotspots (2025):
Research analysing traveller reviews and incidents, ranked cities by how often pickpocketing and general scams are reported, and some popular destinations stand out:
Even though these cities appear due to sheer visitor numbers and reporting intensity, the key takeaway isn’t “don’t go” – it’s stay aware when you’re in crowded public areas within them.
✅ How to avoid it:
Real experience:
When we arrived in Lima, Peru, we watched someone sitting on a park bench have their phone snatched from them in a second, a stark reminder that theft doesn’t only happen in obvious “risky” zones but also wherever attention lapses.
What it is:
Credit card skimming involves secretly copying your card details using a small device installed on ATMs, petrol pumps, or payment machines. Fake ATMs may also be set up to steal both your card information and PIN, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
Why it targets travellers:
Travellers often withdraw cash in unfamiliar places or use their cards at businesses that might not have secure payment systems. Scammers take advantage of that unfamiliarity, especially in areas where tourists may be too polite to question suspicious setups.
✅ How to avoid it:
Real experience:
Many of us have dealt with card skimming at some point, even at home. We’ve had to cancel and reissue our cards twice due to skimming incidents. But since we started using contactless payments regularly, whether with our card or mobile phone, we haven’t had a single issue. It’s become one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect our payment details when travelling.
What it is:
From unlicensed drivers to tampered meters, taxi scams are one of the oldest tricks in the travel scam playbook. Some drivers might take a longer route, claim their meter is broken, or insist on a set (inflated) fare. With ride-share apps, scams can include fake drivers picking up unsuspecting travellers.
Why it targets travellers:
Travellers can be vulnerable, not just when they first arrive in a new city, but anytime they’re in an unfamiliar environment. Scammers take advantage of language barriers, not knowing local prices, and the fact that many of us just want to get where we’re going without hassle. Late-night arrivals or fatigue after a long flight can make you even more likely to accept the first offer without questioning it.
✅ How to avoid it:
Our travel tip: When arriving late at night, we always book an airport transfer to our accommodation in advance – you can do this through platforms like Booking.com or Uber, so you know exactly who will pick you up and how much it will cost.
What it is:
Distraction scams rely on catching you off guard. Someone might “accidentally” spill something on you, ask for directions, or create a commotion, all while their partner quietly lifts your wallet, phone, or bag. These scams are often executed by pairs or small groups working together.
Why it targets travellers:
Tourists often stand out in a crowd: maybe it’s the backpack, the camera, or simply the look of someone trying to figure out directions. Distraction scams are especially common in busy tourist hotspots, public transport, and local markets – places where you’re more likely to let your guard down.
✅ How to avoid it:
What it is:
Scammers may pose as charity workers, students, or volunteers asking for signatures or donations for a cause. Often, once you’re distracted signing a petition, an accomplice picks your pocket, or you’re pressured into making a cash “donation” that goes straight into the scammer’s pocket.
Why it targets travellers:
These scams prey on people’s kindness. As a tourist, you may feel pressured to participate, especially if you’re unsure of local customs or don’t want to seem rude. They’re often found near attractions or public transport stations, anywhere with lots of foot traffic.
✅ How to avoid it:
Real experience:
We’ve personally encountered this one multiple times, especially around major tourist landmarks. In Paris, near the Eiffel Tower, we were approached several times by people holding clipboards asking us to sign a petition “for charity.” As soon as we said no, they became more insistent, trying to get closer or pressure us into donating – they can get pushy. We walked away quickly, but it’s easy to see how people get caught out.
What it is:
Someone approaches you offering unsolicited help: maybe with a ticket machine, directions, or even carrying your luggage. But instead of helping, they’re looking to charge you, pickpocket you, or mislead you for their own gain. Some may demand a tip or lead you to other scammers waiting.
Why it targets travellers:
When you’re unsure of how things work, like buying metro tickets or navigating a foreign train station, you’re more likely to welcome assistance. Scammers take advantage of that vulnerability, often acting friendly, assertive, and quick to “help” before you even ask.
✅ How to avoid it:
Real experience:
It can be hard to tell the difference between someone who genuinely wants to help and someone who has other motives. The first time we were buying tickets for the Tokyo Metro, a person in the queue behind us kindly showed us how to use the machine, and it turned out they were just being helpful. But in Colombo, a man approached us and offered to “show us around”. When we politely declined, he followed us for a short while, still trying to “help”. We didn’t feel unsafe, but when we said no again in Sri Lankan, he left.
What it is:
Scammers posing as police officers, immigration officials, or security personnel may approach you, ask to see your passport, visa, or wallet, and claim there’s been a problem. They may accuse you of a fake violation, flash a badge quickly, or intimidate you into paying a “fine” on the spot.
Why it targets travellers:
Most travellers will comply when approached by someone who appears to be an authority figure, especially in a country where you don’t speak the language or fully understand local laws. Scammers rely on this instinct to avoid conflict or trouble.
💡 Real example:
According to the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website, there have been reports in South Africa of criminals posing as fake tourist police to extort and rob visitors. These scams have occurred in popular areas like Kruger National Park and Sun City Resort, places where tourists wouldn’t expect criminal activity under the guise of law enforcement.
✅ How to avoid it:
What it is:
Tourists are often charged inflated prices for taxis, souvenirs, drinks, or food, especially in areas without clearly marked prices. In markets or street stalls, some sellers may push low-quality or counterfeit items, claiming they’re handmade or authentic.
Why it targets travellers:
Travellers often don’t know local prices, exchange rates, or what’s considered a fair deal. Scammers know this and aim to take advantage of that uncertainty, especially when you seem rushed, tired, or unfamiliar with the currency.
✅ How to avoid it:
What it is:
A stranger may offer you a rose, tie a handmade bracelet around your wrist, or create a “custom” item with your name on it – all without asking first. Once it’s in your hand or on your body, they’ll aggressively demand payment, claiming it’s now yours or that you’ve agreed to buy it.
Why it targets travellers:
These scams rely on social pressure and awkwardness. Once someone hands you something “for free”, it’s uncomfortable to give it back or refuse to pay, especially in public or crowded areas.
✅ How to avoid it:
Our experience:
We’ve been approached by scammers offering roses in Rome, bracelets in Paris, and personalised bowls in Fiji, all with the same goal of getting us to accept the item so they could then demand payment. Fortunately, we recognise these scams early and firmly decline each time. Awareness really is your best defence.
Just because your trip is over doesn’t mean you’re off the scam radar. In fact, some of the most damaging scams can occur after you return home, when your guard is down, and you’re focused on getting back into your routine.
What it is:
If your passport, credit card, phone, or personal documents were lost, stolen, or even just accessed while travelling (like logging into public Wi-Fi), scammers may use that information weeks or months later to steal your identity.
Why it targets travellers:
Travelling increases your exposure to risk, through lost documents, unsafe online connections, or simply relaxing regular security habits. And because identity theft often has a delayed impact, you might not notice until much later.
✅ How to avoid it:
What it is:
You get an email, text, or even a phone call claiming you’ve won a free trip, flight vouchers, or a luxury getaway, all you have to do is provide some personal information, pay a “processing fee,” or click a link to claim it.
Why it targets travellers:
Scammers know you’ve recently been away, and they take advantage of that mindset. You might think, “I must’ve entered something while I was away”, or be tempted by the idea of extending your travel buzz. These scams are classic phishing attempts and are often designed to steal your identity or install malware.
✅ How to avoid it:
What it is:
After you return home, you might receive a call or email that appears to be from a company you booked through – an airline, hotel, travel insurance provider, or even the government – saying there’s a problem with your booking, refund, or documentation. They’ll ask you to “verify” your personal information or payment details.
Why it targets travellers:
You’re more likely to respond to a message referencing your recent trip, especially if you’re still sorting out receipts, refunds, or reimbursements. Scammers use that timing to their advantage, often spoofing official-looking names or emails.
✅ How to avoid it:
The most common scams are pickpocketing in busy areas and fake taxi overcharges. Both rely on distraction and on tourists being unfamiliar with their surroundings or with the local currency.
Not necessarily, but scammers sometimes assume older travellers are more trusting or less tech-savvy. Awareness and a few smart habits are the best defence, no matter your age.
Report it to local authorities (police, tourist police, etc.) as soon as possible. If it involves your credit or bank card, contact your bank immediately. You can also report scams to your home country’s consulate or embassy.
Be cautious about any post-travel emails or messages that ask for personal information. Don’t click on unknown links and always go directly to official websites when managing bookings or claims. Monitor your bank accounts and consider changing key passwords if you accessed sensitive data while away.
You can explore our full Travel Security Hub for tips on public Wi-Fi, VPNs, home security, and more, all tailored to travellers over 50 who want to explore with confidence.
Yes, travel scams exist, but they shouldn’t stop you from doing what you love. We’ve travelled extensively, and while we’ve seen a few sketchy situations (and heard plenty of stories), we’ve never let it hold us back.
The key is to be prepared, not paranoid. Know what to look out for, take simple precautions, and trust your instincts.
Most people you’ll meet on the road are kind, generous, and genuine. And most trips go smoothly – filled with the kind of moments you travel for.
So don’t let the “what ifs” get in the way of your adventures. Go with your eyes open, but your heart open too. Travel should be about curiosity, not constant worry, and a few smart habits are all it takes to stay safe while soaking it all in.
Hi, I’m Lisa Bundesen - the voice behind The Middle Age Wanderer. I’m a retired chartered accountant turned passionate traveller and photographer. Alongside my husband Darren (and with our two fur babies waiting at home in Australia), we explore the world one adventure at a time.
I’ve travelled to over 35 countries, and I created this blog to inspire fellow travellers in their 50s, 60s, and beyond to embrace adventure. Whether it’s hiking ancient trails, diving into new cultures, or sipping wine in scenic places, I believe life after 50 is the perfect time to explore more.
Here, you’ll find honest travel advice, destination guides, and real stories to help you travel smarter and with more confidence - because age is not a barrier, it’s an invitation.
Hi, I’m Lisa, a 50+ retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world every opportunity we get. Staying fit is key to our adventures, from hiking the Inca Trail to scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature and wildlife.
We would love you to join us on our journeys and hope that our adventures give you encouragement to explore this amazing world.
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