We love to travel and there is no better way to do it than with a backpack. What we do hate however is being scammed, which unfortunately shows no signs of receding as the number of unscrupulous individuals only keep increasing. It is to prevent you from falling prey to such scams and being ripped off that we at Travset have created this guide.

Know of any more? Let us know.

1. Research ahead

Everyone hates being scammed and the internet is a great place to discover such occurrences.

We recommend taking a look at our list of scams and/or running a search for travel scams in the destination you wish to visit in order to be prepared.

2. Read the fine print

Reading the fine print is very important.

Make sure the cost agreed upon covers all taxes and is the end price of the good or service you are procuring.

3. Double-check everything

You might have haggled the price down and got a good deal, but don’t forget to double-check whether what you paid for is what is being packed for you.

Vendors have been known to charge for goods in excellent condition and pack substandard products for unassuming tourists.

4. Ask for proof

For transactions involving large amounts of money such as a tour or an extended stay at a location, ask for receipts or payment confirmations.

5. Get converting

Become comfortable with the currency exchange rates and make sure you do the math before making any payment.

6. Be wary

If an offer appears too good to be true, it probably is.

Steer clear of those with promises that appear too cheap even by local standards.

7. Steer clear of the touts

Any organization that needs the assistance of touts to sell their wares or services is not worth visiting.

Firmly reject the advances of touts even if what they are peddling appears to be a great deal.

8. Get travel insurance

Travel insurance protects you and your belongings. Need we say more?

9. Know when to use cash and cards

With credit and debit card fraud on the rise, it is wise to use cash wherever you can.

Do however be careful when withdrawing cash from ATM machines as they too might be rigged. We recommend withdrawing cash from ATMs located in well-lit areas, under surveillance with security.

10. Trust your gut

Your gut is surprisingly adept at sniffing unsavory interactions out and we recommend you trust it.