Japa: Six Tips to Avoid Travel Agent Scams

If you want to japa better ‘‘shine your eyes’’, avoid travel agents who try to scam people of their hard-earned money. As more individuals move in search of better job prospects and living conditions, some dishonest travel agents are taking advantage of this movement to deceive eager travellers .

Sadly, numerous people have already suffered substantial financial losses due to these scams. To avoid becoming a victim, it’s important to recognise and protect yourself from these unscrupulous operators who are looking to profit from your aspirations and needs. 

Knowing the red flags and conducting thorough checks can save you from potential scams and ensure your travel plans go smoothly.

Here are ways to avoid them

1. Do Your Homework

Always check a travel agent’s reputation before working with them. Look up reviews, ratings, and any past complaints. Make sure they are registered with the necessary authorities, like the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA).

2. Watch Out for Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals

Be wary of deals that seem incredibly cheap or come with amazing promises. Always compare these offers with those from well-known and reputable sources to confirm their legitimacy.

3. Verify Accreditation

Confirm that the travel agent is officially accredited and licensed. You should ask for their accreditation number and check it with the appropriate regulatory body. Genuine agents will freely provide this information.

4. Use Secure Payment Methods

For payments, avoid wire transfers or cash. Instead, use secure methods like credit cards or trusted online payment platforms, which provide fraud protection and allow you to contest unauthorized charges.

5. Inquire Thoroughly

 Ask the agent detailed questions about their services, including total costs, travel itinerary, cancellation and refund policies. A reliable agent will be transparent and give you clear, straightforward answers.

6. Trust Your Instincts

 If something feels wrong or the agent seems pushy, trust your gut feeling and be cautious. Don’t rush into decisions and avoid agents who won’t provide necessary details.

Listening to your instincts and being thorough in your checks can greatly reduce the risk of falling victim to travel scams.