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Travel Scams 101: Common Schemes That Target Women (and How to Avoid Them)
Solo doesn’t mean vulnerable—and a little awareness goes a long way.
Let’s be honest: scammers often think women traveling alone are easy targets. What they don’t realize? We do our homework.
Whether it’s a friendly stranger with a sob story or a fake “gift” out of nowhere, travel scams are real—but avoidable. The key is knowing what to look for, and how to walk away with confidence (and your wallet still intact).
Here are the most common scams that target female travelers—and how to steer clear without killing your travel buzz.
The “Free Gift” Trick
How it works: Someone tries to hand you a bracelet, flower, or “blessing”—then demands payment once it’s in your hands.
Where it happens: Tourist hotspots like Paris, Rome, Marrakech
What to do: Don’t engage. Keep walking, hands to yourself, and say a firm “No, thank you” without slowing down.
The Fake Petition or School Fundraiser
How it works: Young adults approach you with a clipboard to “sign a petition” or “support a local school.” Once you stop, they distract you—or pressure you for a donation.
Where it happens: Near famous landmarks and train stations
What to do: Politely decline and keep moving. If something feels off, it probably is.
The “You Dropped This Ring” Scam
How it works: Someone pretends to find a gold ring and offers to sell it to you (or asks for a reward). It’s fake—and they may try to guilt you into handing over cash.
Where it happens: Europe, especially in France
What to do: Don’t take the bait. A simple “That’s not mine” and walking away works wonders.
The Friendly Photographer
How it works: Someone offers to take your photo, then won’t give your phone or camera back until you pay—or runs off with it.
Where it happens: Anywhere tourists pose for selfies
What to do: Use your camera timer, a tripod, or ask another tourist, ideally one with their own camera or family in tow.
The “Broken Meter” Taxi
How it works: The driver says the meter is broken and charges an outrageous flat fee.
Where it happens: Airports, train stations, border crossings
What to do: Ask about the fare before getting in. Or skip the hassle and use an official rideshare app like Uber or Bolt.
The Flirty Stranger or Overly Helpful Local
How it works: Someone seems overly interested in your plans or insists on showing you around—only to lead you into a scam or pressure you to buy something.
Where it happens: Markets, train stations, bars
What to do: Trust your gut. Don’t share where you’re staying or that you’re traveling alone. Use the “I’m meeting someone in five minutes” line if needed.
The Bump-and-Grab
How it works: Someone bumps into you—while their partner lifts your phone or wallet.
Where it happens: Crowded transit areas or festivals
What to do: Use a crossbody anti-theft bag, keep valuables zipped, and wear bags in front in busy areas. Bonus: add a bag clip to loop it to your chair at restaurants.
🧠 Smart Scammer-Spotting Habits
Watch how locals react to the person approaching you. If they look annoyed or steer clear… so should you.
Avoid engaging with anyone who approaches you out of nowhere and seems too eager
Be cautious when someone distracts you—especially when asking for directions or holding maps
Keep your phone close and zipped when using it for directions
