Holidaymakers fall sufferer to vacationer traps overseas – dropping £200 on common

A new Airalo survey of 2,000 holidaymakers has found that more than a fifth have fallen into tourist traps while abroad, with those affected losing an average of £200 in unexpected costs

More than a fifth of holidaymakers have been caught out by tourist traps while on holiday abroad, losing an average of £200. Over half (52%) reckon popular overseas holiday destinations are becoming increasingly notorious each year for conning people.

The survey of 2,000 holidaymakers revealed 27% have knowingly been ripped off or overcharged while on holiday. The most frequent scams include overpriced food and drinks flogged at tourist hotspots, taxi journeys, hidden charges when using card machines, being stung for more than locals at restaurants, and bogus tour guides.

The research was commissioned by the eSIM platform Airalo, which provides mobile data coverage in more than 200 destinations around the world.

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 study revealed that having reliable internet access makes 69% feel safer when travelling abroad, with 21% typically ‘always’ connected to the internet or mobile data when on holiday.

For 46%, without internet access they can’t contact friends or family, while others would struggle to navigate unfamiliar areas (40%), and 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 swindled while on holiday, 50% have steered clear of 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 warn passers-by of the pitfalls faced on holiday.

To assist holidaymakers in avoiding 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:

1. Food, drinks, and merchandise sold at inflated prices because of a location’s captive audience
2. Overpriced taxi rides or taxi drivers taking deliberately longer routes to increase the fare
3. Hidden charges while eating out (e.g. paying for ‘complimentary bread’ left on the table)
4. Expensive local souvenirs which turn out to be cheaply mass-produced
5. Being charged more than a local would be in a restaurant
6. Card machines or ATMs secretly applying large hidden conversion fees
7. ‘Free’ gifts or bracelets which later require payment
8. Tour guide rip-offs (i.e. paying a premium for a low-quality tour)
9. Tourist photo scams (e.g. being charged unexpectedly for photos)
10. Paying for unsolicited ‘help’ with luggage at airports or train stations