Avoiding Travel Scams: A Comprehensive Guide

Remnants of summer linger, but September is still vacation time, especially for travel. Recent reports show that scams are always a concern. “It’s crucial for consumers to be aware of their rights and know how to act in case of problems. A recent ruling by the Court of Cassation (n.5271) reiterated that in case of a ruined vacation, tourists are entitled not only to reimbursement of expenses and compensation for material damages but also for moral and biological damages suffered”: Carlo Claps, president of Aidacon Consumers, warns those who have doubts before relying on tour operators and travel agencies to avoid unpleasant incidents. Here is the guide drafted by his consumer association for a peaceful vacation.

BEFORE LEAVING: PREVENTION IS EVERYTHING
Choose your tour operator carefully: always rely on travel agencies and tour operators with regular authorization. Check online reviews and feedback from other users. Read catalogs and offers carefully: do not be deceived by offers that are too enticing. Always check service descriptions, conditions, and any hidden clauses (e.g., additional costs for airport taxes, transfers, visas, drinks, excursions). Examine the contract in detail: before signing, make sure the contract contains all the organizer/seller’s details, the main characteristics of the services (hotel category, treatment type, destination, duration, means of transport). Always ask for a countersigned copy.

Pay attention to deposits and insurance: if a deposit is required, always negotiate the lowest possible amount and ensure it is indicated in the contract, with a receipt. Verify that the contract contains information on the right of withdrawal and the details of mandatory insurance coverage (against cancellation, lost luggage, medical assistance). Online bookings and private bookings.

Online booking (with recognized operators): online platforms of tour operators or authorized agencies generally offer the same protections as a physical agency, often falling under the “tourist packages” regulation. Ensure the site is reliable (look for the security padlock in the URL and positive reviews).

Booking from Private Individuals or through classified ad platforms: Protection is significantly lower. Always request a detailed written contract, ask for references, and if possible, do not pay the full amount in advance. If the offer is too good to be true, it probably is not.

DURING THE VACATION: HOW TO ACT IN CASE OF DISRUPTIONS
Complain Immediately: do not wait until you return. If you encounter service disruptions, send messages or emails to the seller through whom you purchased the package. Collect evidence and document everything: photograph or film the situation (e.g., dirty room, dilapidated facilities). Keep receipts of any costs incurred due to the inconvenience (e.g., purchase of essential goods for lost luggage). Gather testimonies from other travelers.

AFTER THE VACATION: ACTIONS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS
Compensation claim for “Ruined Vacation”: if your rights have not been respected, upon return, immediately send a registered letter with return receipt (or PEC) to the legal headquarters of the tour operator and/or travel agency, attaching all collected evidence. Remember that the right to compensation expires three years from the return date. In case of fraud, reporting is essential: if you suspect you have been a victim of fraud, file a complaint with the Police or Carabinieri. This is a crucial step not only for your protection. Attaching all documentation in your possession (contracts, emails, payment receipts) is essential. Legal action: if the tour operator or agency does not provide compensation, you can sue them. For amounts not exceeding 10,000 euros, the Justice of the Peace is competent; for higher amounts, the Ordinary Court.