Dodge summer travel scams

Our experts share easy ways to sidestep the latest frauds—from bogus Airbnb listings to cruise-line cons—so you can enjoy your getaway

- LINDSAY BOSSLETT

OUTSMART VACATION HOME HOAXES

There’s been a spike in rental home scams on sites like Craigslist and Airbnb, but knowing what to look for can help you avoid them. “If the rental is much cheaper than others in the area or if they ask for money up front, before allowing you to see or verify the property, that’s a red flag,” says realtor Joy Aumann. Other warning signs: listings with a lack of interior shots. This can mean a scammer took a photo of someone else’s home from the street.
Also smart: Be wary when booking campsites, says Liz Ho of CampingGuidance.com. “I was almost fooled by a website offering low rates on RV sites, until I read complaints from others who had fallen victim to it. Now I only book from the campgrounds directly.”

BEWARE OF RENTAL CAR CLAIMS