32 Common Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them Like a Pro

8. The Overpriced Currency Exchange

You find a small exchange booth with a flashy sign offering "the best rates in town." It seems like a great deal—until you realize you've been shortchanged, given fake bills, or hit with hidden fees. Some scammers use sleight of hand to swap high-denomination bills for lower ones, then claim you gave them the wrong amount. Others might distract you mid-transaction, counting out the cash in a confusing way so you don’t realize you're getting less than you should. How to Avoid It: Always exchange money at banks, airport exchange counters, or reputable currency exchange offices. Avoid street exchangers or booths with suspiciously good rates. If using an ATM, choose one inside a bank or shopping center rather than a random street machine. Always count your cash before leaving the counter, and familiarize yourself with the local currency to spot counterfeit bills. When in doubt, use a credit card for major purchases to minimize cash handling.