HARRISBURG, Pa. – Summer is a busy travel season, and Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane yesterday offered guidance for safe and hassle-free summer travel.
“Unwelcome surprises can ruin a vacation,” Kane said. “Before scheduling your next get away, review our travel guidelines to help ensure a safe, fun-filled trip.”
Attorney General Kane encouraged Pennsylvania consumers to consider the following when planning a vacation:
Compare Your Options
Research your vacation location before making any travel or hotel reservations. Check review sites to determine if the business is reputable and recommended. You can check for information about each company that you may do business with by contacting the Better Business Bureau. The Bureau’s website, www.bbb.org, may provide helpful information about businesses in the area where you will be traveling.
Before you book a flight, hotel room or package deal with any third-party site, check the price on each of the individual vendor’s sites. Sometimes it is cheaper to cut out the middle man. Read the terms and conditions on any third-party sites because you may be required to pay in full upfront.
Internet Searches
The Internet can be a valuable source for all of your travel needs. When using the Internet to plan your trip, be sure to use a reputable site and only divulge your personal information to secure sites. Keep copies of all transactions and make sure to get detailed copies of cancellation, refund and emergency policies.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is comprehensive insurance that may compensate you for unforeseen trip cancellations, health problems or theft. Shop around for the best coverage and terms to fit your needs and make sure you understand the exclusions.
Paying With A Credit Card
Vacations are a large purchase, which should be made on a credit card. If your vacation is not what you contracted for or you were scammed, you may be able to dispute the charges with your credit card company and limit your liability.
Remember to notify your credit card companies ahead of time to tell them when and where you will be traveling to avoid a freeze on your account that may be prompted by unusual spending patterns. Leave a copy of all credit card account numbers and contact information for the bank or card company with a trusted family member or friend. This will help you in canceling the cards in the event they are lost or stolen during your trip.
Confirmation
It is always a good idea to confirm your travel plans on the telephone prior to leaving. Check all reservations for correct dates, times and traveler information.
For more information on planning your vacation or if you feel that you may have already been taken advantage of during your travel search, please call the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection at (800) 441-2555.
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