HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — School is out for summer, so many people are planning their next vacation!
Unfortunately, there are a lot of ways a vacation can go wrong like getting scammed or experiencing unexpected cancellations.
The Better Business Bureau of North Alabama (BBB) has tips on how to make plans the right way, so you can enjoy every minute of your trip.
To get started, the BBB suggests people use BBB Accredited travel businesses, professionals and services to save money and travel safely.
The BBB’s online search engine can help you find trusted professionals at reputable travel agencies, agents and websites.
When beginning the vacation planning process, the BBB has the following tips:
- Plan ahead. Allow plenty of time to research hotels, flights, and your stay area. Typically, the earlier reservations are made, the better the deals and the lower the
risk of the destination being booked solid. Making reservations in advance also locks in rates and prevents higher prices later during prime spring break, peak summer, or holiday travel seasons. - Avoid broad internet searches. Entering phrases like ‘best deals’ into whichever search engine is used can sometimes bring up websites that look official but are designed solely to rip people off.
- Be alert for travel scams. Watch out for phone calls or letters claiming a ‘free trip’ or websites offering prices that appear too good to be true. It’s easy to extend questionable offers like these, but most leave hopeful travelers in limbo – and out of money.
- Do your homework. Ask family and friends to recommend a travel agent or website, and visit BBB.org for free Business Profiles. Research the business and read customer reviews about any rentals under consideration.
When you get to the point of booking, this is what the BBB suggests:
- Get trip details in writing. Before making a final payment, get all the trip details in writing. This should include the total cost, restrictions, cancellation penalties, and names of the airlines and hotels. Also, review and keep a copy of the airline’s and hotel’s cancellation and refund policies, as well as the cancellation policies of the travel agency or booking site used.
- Consider travel insurance. Travel insurance covers things like trip cancellations or medical emergencies. Depending on the plan purchased, there are different levels of coverage. Ask many questions, and always read the fine print to see what’s covered and what’s not.
- Pay with a credit card. Credit card payments provide additional protection if something goes wrong with the travel reservation.
Then, it’s time to head out. While on the trip, the BBB has these tips:
- Wait to post on social media. It’s fun to post adventures with friends and family but wait until getting back from the trip. Photos and social media posts of the family having a great time also let thieves know the house is empty.
- Check your home insurance. If your home will be unattended while you are away, make sure you know your responsibilities under your policy. Some policies do not cover damage if nobody checks on your home for a while.
Safety is key while traveling as well. Here’s some advice from the BBB:
- Share a copy of the itinerary with a family member or close friend. Include the contact information of someone joining you on your trip.
- Take a map. Although people rely heavily on smartphones and GPS, consider having an atlas or hard copy map just in case of technical difficulties.
- Avoid traveling alone. Use the buddy system and stick with the group.
- Use a hotel safe to store extra cash and keep valuables under lock and key.
For more travel tips from the BBB, click here.
