AAA Warns Consumers About Bogus Travel Deals

04/16/96

The American Automobile Association warned consumers with the spring yearning to take a trip to be wary of scam artists who offer luxurious warm-weather getaways at bargain basement prices. The AAA said that while most travel packages are legitimate, a small number of them come from dealers who are simply trying to rip off as many unsuspecting consumers as possible.

Scam offers can come through the mail, or over the phone. Bogus vacation certificates could tempt consumers with fabulous deals, but never deliver or fall short of the package they promise.

Would-be travelers should be automatically suspicious of direct mail campaigns that tell them they have been "specially selected to receive a free trip," which often includes hidden costs or requirements to buy high-priced products. Other recognized scams include multi-day travel packages that are greatly overpriced when when costs are figured separately.

Consumers should be particularly wary of high pressure sales tactics that require potential customers to make instant decisions. The overly aggressive approach is a hallmark of hucksters who skip town with unlucky suckers' money.

The AAA advises consumers to ask for detailed, written information that they can compare to what the salesperson promised. Wary consumers will contact the airlines, hotels or cruise lines directly to see what kind of deal they are offering.

Here's a list of additional tips that the AAA offers consumers that are interested in enjoying legitimate travel packages:

• Be skeptical if the offer sounds too good to be true. When in doubt, book your vacation through a travel agent.
• Use extreme caution when giving your credit card or checking account number over the phone. Exceptions are when you initiate the transaction or when you are familiar with the company and have verified the legitimacy of the travel package.
• Ask for a full disclosure of the cancelation policy, including timing and special conditions during the sales pitch. In some states, you have seven days to cancel upon receipt of the certificate.
• Ask about extra charges, including port taxes, service charges or single supplements.
• Insist upon receiving written verification of all aspects of the travel package before you book. Read the small print and asterisks. This documentation will be helpful if a dispute arises.
• Ask if the company participates in a consumer protection plan through such organizations as the United States Tour Operator Association or the American Society of Travel Agents.
• Reject any travel "prize" that requires you to pay a fee or processing charge.
• Check out the company by contacting such sources as the local Better Business Bureau or consumer protection office or state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
• Once you have thoroughly checked out the company and the offer, and decide to book the trip, use a credit card. This documentation will be helpful if a dispute arises.
• Reconfirm the arrangements with the hotel, airline or cruise line to verify funds have been received and reservations are confirmed in your name.

AAA is a not-for-profit federation of 112 motor clubs providing its nearly 39 million members in the United States and Canada with travel, insurance, financial and auto-related services. AAA's 9,000 professional travel agents and auto travel counselors provide complete domestic and international trip planning and reservations for members and the public.

Paul Dever -- The Auto Channel