By Marie Sulda
Online hackers and scams are in abundance, so how can you protect yourself when travelling?
One of the benefits of using a travel agent when booking your travel, is that we use reputable suppliers and have contact people in Australia, should something go wrong. When booking online, you may find yourself on a site with no contact numbers, or worse, a customer service number that goes to nowhere. Scams for accommodation, tours, flights and your money are on the rise, so here are our top tips to reduce the likelihood of holiday or funds disruption.
Use an International Money Card
There are many card and APP options that allow you to transfer money into multiple currencies whilst you are travelling. The benefit of having a card separate to your savings or credit account, means that if someone "skims" your card, they can only access what is in your travel money card. It also means you don't have to close down your credit or debit card whilst you are on the road. WeExplored have partnered with Pelikin money giving you the option of a physical card and also an APP for payment via your phone. Travelling in a group? No worries, all download Pelikin and you can transfer money for dinner if you can't split the bill!
Get an RFID blocking wallet or handbag for your cards
Tap to pay is easy and convenient at your local Woolworths, but it also makes it simple for people to tap to pay your credit card if you're in close proximity. Travel + Leisure Magazine have featured the 11 best RFID blocking wallets for travel, so your phone and card can't be skimmed - The Best 11 RFID-blocking wallets for Travel
Limit what you book online if you're not sure
Did you know that 9 times out of 10 your travel agent can get the same rates for you at the same price, or better? They have access to hundreds of wholesalers and have contacts in case something goes wrong. Would you rather be on hold for 2 hours to a call centre, or flick your agent an email so they can sort it whilst you're enroute? And yes, people do turn up to their villa they booked online, just to find out....it never existed.
Don't click links you're not sure about
Perhaps you booked a flight and an email comes through from the airline, it looks legitimate, it tells you about a schedule change and to click a link. Recently, there have been instances of these emails being scams. How do you know? If you book through an agent, you can shoot them an email and they can double check to see if it is legitimate before you open your email.
Stay in reputable properties
You have probably all seen the reels where the person has booked someone's home online, only to find out that the person who owns it is accessing the property whilst you are there. There is an additional layer of security via booking through serviced apartments and hotels. There is also someone to contact if things don't go as planned or the services aren't up to the standards advertised.
At WeExplored, we are all about adventure and exploring, but it can't help to smooth out the inevitable travel bumps by being street smart! If you are unsure about anything, contact one of our agents (who are avid travellers) to assist.
Comentários