No one wants to think about travel scams or price gouging. Buying travel insurance or stating your consumer complaint in search of a refund are two more unpopular subjects with many travelers. But knowing about these things can save you money for travel. Check out the following topics and learn more about how to protect yourself in the travel marketplace.
Bankruptcy and Airlines
Mark Kahler, licensed to About.com
Airlines have bankruptcy laws to protect them in fragile financial circumstances. As a consumer, do you know how to protect yourself from losing money if an airline shuts down? Consider a few strategies for keeping your money safer during turbulent economic times at the airlines.
Do You Need Travel Insurance?
Mark Kahler, licensed to About.com
It's a legitimate question. If you're taking a short, relatively inexpensive trip, your need for insurance is minimal. But if details of your dream trip (with prices to match) suddenly are threatened, what economic consequences would you face? Check out some considerations for the possible purchase of travel insurance.
Insurance Buys for a Budget Trip
Bruno Vincent/Getty Images
How much do you know about travel insurance? There are many types of policies available. Once you determine you'd like to buy a policy, take a look at the variety of products and how they might protect you.
Fight Price Gouging
Mark Kahler, licensed to About.com
Price gouging is a natural consequence of panic buying. But those who take advantage of people in such situations deserve to be shunned in the marketplace or perhaps even prosecuted. The effectiveness of price gouging laws is a topic of debate in other places. This is simply a place to consider how a complaint can be launched and where it might be directed.
How to Get Travel Refunds and Relief
Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images
There are a few simple steps that lead to effective complaining. Making a scene or aimless threats often does more harm than good. Knowing how to complain is important, so take a look at these steps and increase your chances for success at the ticket counter or consumer affairs window.
Scam Alert
Dimitri Vervitsiotis/Getty Images
Because many travel products must be purchased before delivery and over the Internet, there is ample opportunity in the industry for scam artists to succeed. If you think you're immune from such hoaxes, be prepared to join thousands of other victims who were equally confident. Take a look at how travel scams unfold and some tips for avoiding them.
Top Signs of a Possible Travel Scam
James Lauritz/Getty Images
This list of 10 common "red flags" should make you more cautious and even a bit skeptical as a travel consumer. Asking the right questions before the sale can prevent you from becoming a victim.
