A new survey has found the most common holiday scams abroad that UK tourists have fallen for – and the average amount they’ve been ripped off for is £200
More than a fifth of holidaymakers have fallen victim to tourist traps while travelling abroad, losing an average of £200. Over half (52%) believe popular overseas holiday destinations are getting worse year on year when it comes to fleecing visitors.
The survey of 2,000 holidaymakers revealed that 27% have knowingly been ripped off or overcharged while on holiday. The most widespread scams include overpriced food and drinks at tourist hotspots, taxi rides, hidden fees when paying by card, being charged more than locals at restaurants, and bogus tour guides.
The research was commissioned by eSIM platform Airalo, which provides mobile data coverage across more than 200 destinations worldwide.
Matteo Papa, growth director (Europe & CIS), said: “Falling victim to a tourist trap can put a dampener on, and in some cases a financial strain on, a dream holiday.
“While some traps can seem harmless at first, the costs can quickly add up and leave travellers feeling frustrated or out of pocket.”
“Doing a little research before you travel, checking reviews, and staying connected while you’re on the go can help holidaymakers make more informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.
“Being aware of the most common rip-off tactics in your destination can go a long way towards helping you enjoy a smoother, more stress-free trip.”
The research revealed that having dependable internet access makes 69% feel safer when travelling overseas, with 21% typically ‘always’ connected to the internet or mobile data while on holiday.
For 46%, without internet access they are unable to contact friends or family, while others would be unable to navigate unfamiliar areas (40%), or access tickets and bookings (29%).
Half of holidaymakers are now more careful when spending money or booking activities abroad compared to five years ago.
To avoid being ripped off while on holiday, 50% have avoided carrying large amounts of cash, while 37% have only used licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.
Airalo launched an activation in London, creating a ‘Tourist Trap’ featuring overpriced croissants with the price tag of €15 to alert passers-by to the pitfalls faced on holiday.
To help holidaymakers dodge extra costs this summer, the brand is offering new users 20% off sitewide data plans with the code ‘CROISSANT’, ensuring travellers stay connected and protected.
A spokesperson for the brand added: “Even seasoned travellers can be caught out when they’re unfamiliar with local customs, prices, or payment methods.
“Taking a few simple precautions before and during your trip can make a real difference, helping you feel more confident when making purchases or booking experiences.
“Ultimately, being prepared means you can spend less time worrying about unexpected costs and more time enjoying everything your destination has to offer.”
TOURIST TRAPS HOLIDAYMAKERS HAVE EXPERIENCED ABROAD:
- Food, drinks, and merchandise sold at inflated prices because of a location’s captive audience
- Overpriced taxi rides or taxi drivers taking deliberately longer routes to increase the fare
- Hidden charges while eating out (e.g. paying for ‘complimentary bread’ left on the table)
- Expensive local souvenirs which turn out to be cheaply mass-produced
- Being charged more than a local would be in a restaurant
- Card machines or ATMs secretly applying large hidden conversion fees
- ‘Free’ gifts or bracelets which later require payment
- Tour guide rip-offs (i.e. paying a premium for a low-quality tour)
- Tourist photo scams (e.g. being charged unexpectedly for photos)
- Paying for unsolicited ‘help’ with luggage at airports or train stations
