Excursion booking tips | 5+1 Tips for Avoiding Scams

Booking an excursion should be an exciting part of planning your vacation. Whether you’re envisioning a guided tour through Crete’s ancient ruins, a serene boat trip along the coast, or an adrenaline-pumping adventure in the mountains, the internet offers endless possibilities to make it happen. You’ve decided to avoid the mainstream booking platforms to support local travel agents and the local economy—that’s a great choice! But with so many options, how do you ensure you’re booking with a reputable provider? Unfortunately, some operators don’t play by the rules, and choosing the wrong one could turn your dream excursion into a costly mistake.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the key factors to consider when booking an excursion online, helping you avoid common pitfalls and ensuring you choose a provider that delivers on their promises.

1. Verify Legal Compliance: Check for Required License Numbers

In Greece, all legitimate travel agencies are required by law to display their travel agency license number, issued by the Greek Tourism Ministry (MH.T.E. number), as well as their General Commercial Register (GEMI) number, which is mandated by the Ministry of Trade. These should be prominently displayed on the agency’s website, in emails, on letterheads, and in advertisements. If you can’t easily find this information, it’s a red flag that the agency may not be operating legally. Always make sure the company you’re dealing with adheres to these regulations—it’s your first line of defense against potential scams.

2. Look for Contact Information: Absence of Phone Numbers or Addresses Is a Red Flag

A legitimate travel agency will always provide clear and accessible contact information, including a phone number and a physical address. This transparency is crucial for building trust and ensuring you can reach the company if you need assistance. Be wary of websites that only offer an email address or a generic contact form with no other means of communication. The absence of a phone number or address could indicate that the agency is trying to avoid direct contact, which is often a sign of a less reputable operation.

3. Ensure Price Transparency: Beware of Hidden Costs and Non-Transparent Pricing

When booking an excursion, price transparency is key. Be suspicious of providers who ask you to contact them for a quote on a standard excursion that’s not customized. This practice can often lead to unexpected costs or pressure tactics to upsell you on additional services. A reputable agency will clearly list all prices upfront, including what is included in the package and any potential additional costs. This transparency not only helps you budget effectively but also ensures there are no unpleasant surprises later on.

4. Secure Payment Methods: Avoid Direct Credit Card Payments

Payment security is a critical consideration when booking online. While it may seem convenient to pay directly via credit card on a provider’s website, the safest option is when you are redirected to a secure banking platform. Look for websites that use a 3D secure system, where payments are processed through the bank’s website. This adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring your payment information is handled securely by the bank, not the travel agency.

5. Compare Apples to Apples: Make Sure You’re Comparing the Right Services

It’s natural to compare prices when booking an excursion, but it’s essential to ensure you’re comparing similar services. Some providers may offer a lower price by cutting corners on safety, service quality, or even by excluding certain aspects of the excursion. When comparing options, make sure you’re looking at all the details, including what’s included in the package, the duration of the excursion, the quality of the guides, and the overall customer experience. A slightly higher price may be well worth it for a safer, more enjoyable experience.

6. Be Cautious with Reviews: “Too Good to Be True” Could Be a Warning

Customer reviews are a valuable resource, but they should be approached with caution. Unfortunately, some agencies use paid reviews or fake testimonials to boost their online reputation. If a company has overwhelmingly positive reviews that lack detail or seem too good to be true, consider this a potential red flag. Authentic reviews often include specific details about the experience, both positive and negative, providing a balanced view. Always cross-check reviews on multiple platforms like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, or Trustpilot to get a clearer picture.

Book Smart, Travel Safe

Booking an excursion should be the start of an incredible adventure, not a cause for concern. By taking the time to verify legal compliance, check for genuine reviews, ensure transparent pricing, and use secure payment methods, you can protect yourself from potential scams and ensure you’re booking with a reputable provider. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in ensuring your vacation is everything you dreamed it would be. So, book smart, travel safe, and get ready for an unforgettable experience with a provider you can trust.

Excursion booking tips, Safe excursion booking