8 great tips to avoid getting ripped off when traveling

1. Find out information about the place you are going to

Before each trip, you should carefully research the information of the destination to have a detailed plan. Specifically, where you will rest, how to move, what to eat for main and side meals, whether the prices there are more expensive or cheaper than where you live, etc. From there, you will be more proactive in the trip, without encountering unexpected troubles.

Nowadays, many forums with travel topics have useful information that you should refer to in advance. This is how you become a smart traveler, avoiding places that often raise prices and "rip off" customers.

2. Book hotel rooms and tours early

Major tourist attractions are often very crowded, so be sure to book your room or tour as early as possible as demand increases dramatically these days.

Book early, you can choose beautiful rooms, good service quality, convenient transportation, especially good prices and no price pressure. Modern technology helps you to book hotels online through websites very quickly and simply.

If you book a tour early when traveling during the holidays, you can also receive many discounts or enjoy some free services...

3. Don't follow the "broker"

There are brokers in most tourist spots, so you must be alert to avoid being lured by them. Brokers are the factors that help restaurant owners try to rip off tourists. There are many types, from motorbike taxi brokers, taxi brokers, hotel brokers, restaurant brokers, shop brokers, etc. Because the tip amount has been agreed upon in advance when “catching customers”, brokers often try to entice customers at all costs. In those cases, you should be careful because there are many cases where customers “lose both money and health”.

4. Choose restaurants and eateries that have listed prices.

To avoid being ripped off, choose restaurants that have posted prices. Before ordering, check the price and ask about any "sky-high" additional charges such as seat fees, umbrella fees, tissue fees, taxes, service fees, etc.

Also, don’t trust restaurant bills because mistakes can always happen. Restaurant owners at tourist spots often have different tricks to add a few extra dishes to your table, even if you didn’t order them. Therefore, you should check the bill before paying.

5. Buy specialties at the source

Visit local craft villages to shop for souvenirs and fresh produce. Buying directly from the source will always be cheaper, and you will have the opportunity to learn how unique, high-quality items are made.

6. Don't be afraid to bargain

Another essential thing when you travel isDon’t be afraid to bargain. Usually, male tourists may be afraid to bargain, so they often buy more expensive products and the seller does not hesitate to offer a high price. Women should pay attention to be able to offer a suitable price to be able to own the item they like.

In some places, you have to pay 50-70% less than the seller's price, but in some places, you only need to pay 10-20% less... If you are not careful, it is easy to buy an item at an "astronomical" price and feel like you are being cheated.

7. Prepare necessary items

When traveling during the holidays, you should prepare items such as swimsuits, sunglasses, hats, because when buying these items at tourist areas, the price is often double or triple. Not to mention that the products at tourist areas often have limited designs, poor quality, and do not suit your style.

If possible, remember to bring drinking water and food along the way in case the restaurant is far from the tourist area.

8. Save emergency phone numbers

Save emergency numbers in your contacts in case you need to call them. The numbers you need are: Local tourist hotline, local police, hotel where you are staying… to prevent theft or harassment./.