Visiting Australia comes with incredible experiences, beautiful landscapes, welcoming locals, and a relaxed Aussie culture. As with any popular destination, being aware of common tourist scams will help you avoid unnecessary stress.
At Remitly, we understand the challenges of navigating a new country, whether for a short visit or a long stay. This guide covers the most common travel scams in Australia, from overpriced taxis to fake online deals.
Understanding tourist scams
Scammers often take advantage of newcomers who are still getting familiar with their surroundings. They might pose as helpful locals, official staff, or service providers offering “too good to be true” deals. While Australia is a safe and welcoming place, it’s always good to stay alert, especially in busy areas like airports, tourist spots, and city centres.
A few red flags can help you spot a potential scam. If a price seems unusually high or way too cheap, if someone insists on cash payments without a receipt, or if an “official” document looks poorly printed, it’s best to double-check before handing over any money.
Why staying informed matters
Knowing how to recognise scams can make all the difference in protecting both your money and your peace of mind. A little awareness goes a long way in avoiding unexpected hassles and keeping your travels enjoyable.
By staying up to date on common scams, sharing tips with other newcomers, and trusting your instincts, it’s easier to stay one step ahead. This means more time enjoying Australia and less time dealing with financial headaches or paperwork.
Common tourist scams in Australia
Australia is generally a safe place to travel, but like anywhere, scams can happen, especially in busy tourist areas. Being aware of common tricks can help you avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy your time.
Taxi scams
Most taxi drivers in Australia are reliable, but a few might take advantage of newcomers who don’t know about standard fares or routes. Some drivers might “forget” to turn on the meter, so if you spot this, politely remind them. Others may take longer routes to increase the fare, so keeping an eye on a map app can help you spot unnecessary detours.
Unlicensed taxis sometimes operate in airport or city pick-up areas, offering rides that seem convenient but could be overpriced or even unsafe. To avoid this, stick to official taxis, check for proper signage, or use rideshare apps like Uber to get an upfront fare estimate.
Rental scams
If you’re planning a longer stay and need a rental, be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Some scammers post fake listings with unrealistically low prices and pressure potential renters to pay without a viewing. Others may demand large deposits or upfront fees before you’ve had a chance to check the property.
To stay safe, use reputable rental platforms like Rent with verified reviews and ask for a walkthrough, either in person or via video call. If anything feels rushed, unclear, or raises red flags, trust your instincts and move on to a more secure option.
Hotel credit card scams
Scammers sometimes call hotel guests pretending to be from the front desk, claiming there’s a problem with their payment and asking for credit card details over the phone. These calls can sound convincing, but real hotel staff rarely request full payment details over the phone.
If you receive a call like this, hang up and contact the front desk directly. Always check who you’re speaking to before sharing any financial information. If something feels off, handling payment matters in person is the safest approach.
Street scams and pickpockets
While crime rates in Australian cities are lower than in many other global destinations, petty theft can still happen in crowded areas. Some thieves use distraction tactics like spilling something on you or asking for help while an accomplice picks your pocket. Others may pose as friendly tourists to strike up a conversation while their partner steals from your bag.
To minimise risk, keep your bag close in busy areas, avoid leaving valuables on tables or chairs, and consider using a cross-body or anti-theft bag. A little awareness goes a long way in keeping your belongings safe.
Online scams targeting tourists
Scammers don’t wait until you arrive in Australia to try their luck. Many start online, luring travellers with fake booking deals. A convincing website or email can look legitimate, only for travellers to realise too late that their tickets, accommodation, or tours don’t actually exist.
Common online booking scams
- Fake event or attraction tickets: Some scammers create professional-looking websites selling tickets to concerts, theme parks, or tours that don’t exist.
- Phishing emails: Fraudsters can pose as a travel agency or tour operator, asking you to confirm personal details through a link that leads to a fake site.
- Wi-Fi network traps: Public Wi-Fi can be useful, but unsecured networks can let hackers steal your credit card details if you make a booking while connected.
How to spot online booking scams
- Check URLs: Scammers often use slight variations, like “.net” instead of “.com,” or a small misspelling of a well-known brand.
- Look for genuine reviews: Overly positive, vague reviews can be fake. Sites like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews help verify legitimate experiences.
- Secure sites: Always book through sites with “https://” in the address and consider using a VPN for added security.
- Avoid too-good-to-be-true deals: If a luxury hotel or top attraction is offering shockingly low prices, it’s likely a scam.
How to protect yourself from scams
There are many simple ways to stay safe and enjoy your trip with confidence. A little preparation and awareness can go a long way in avoiding unnecessary hassles.
Tips to avoid travel scams
Doing some research before you arrive can make a big difference. Learning about common scams in the area, getting familiar with local customs, and understanding average prices for transport, accommodation, and attractions can help you recognise when something doesn’t seem right.
Make sure you book tours, tickets, and accommodations through reputable sources, like official websites, well-known travel agencies, or trusted platforms. This can help you avoid fake listings or fraudulent deals.
Carrying large amounts of cash can make you a target, so it’s best to use secure card payments whenever possible. However, be careful when using card machines in Australia, as skimming devices can be a problem.
In crowded areas like airports, train stations, or festivals, keep an eye on your bags and pockets, and stay alert. Scammers often work in pairs, with one person diverting your attention while the other makes a move.
The golden rule of avoiding scams
If something feels off, trust your instincts. Scammers rely on making people feel rushed or pressured into quick decisions like paying for something on the spot, sharing personal details, or handing over cash. If someone is pushing you to act fast or making a deal seem like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, take a step back and rethink the situation.
A legitimate business or service provider will always give you time to make an informed decision. Whether it’s a taxi driver, hotel staff, or tour operator, you should feel comfortable asking for more information or verifying their credentials before proceeding.
What to do if you get scammed
Even with the best precautions, scams can still happen. The important thing is to act quickly and not let embarrassment stop you from seeking help—scammers count on people staying quiet. Taking the right steps can help you recover lost money and prevent further issues.
Steps to take right away
- Document everything: Keep receipts, screenshots, or conversation logs. This evidence can be crucial for the police or your bank.
- Contact your bank: If your credit card was compromised, call your bank to freeze or replace the card.
- Change your passwords: If you think that your personal info is at risk, change your passwords as soon as possible to protect your personal information.
Contacting local authorities
- Call 000 in an emergency: If you’re in immediate danger or need police assistance, dial 000 (known as Triple Zero) for help. For non-urgent matters, visit the nearest police station to file a report.
- ACCC’s Scamwatch: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission runs Scamwatch, where you can report scams and check for common fraud alerts.
- Check your travel insurance: Some policies cover theft or scams, so it’s worth reviewing your coverage to see if you’re eligible for reimbursement.
Taking action quickly can make a big difference, whether it’s recovering lost money, protecting your information, or helping authorities stop scammers from targeting others.
Extra safety tips for tourists
Staying safe while travelling is mostly about using common sense and taking a few extra precautions. A little awareness goes a long way in avoiding scams, so keep strategies in mind for a worry-free trip.
The best way to avoid travel scams
One of the best ways to protect yourself is to always double-check everything before handing over money. Scammers often rely on tourists making quick decisions, so taking an extra minute to confirm anything that feels off can save a lot of trouble.
For transport, make sure that taxis are properly licensed by checking for official branding or registered license plates. If you’re booking tours, stick with well-known agencies, reputable travel websites, or operators recommended by other travellers. Be careful with street vendors or individuals offering last-minute deals, especially if they pressure you to pay in cash upfront.
Hotel staff can also be a great resource. They often have a list of trusted tour guides, taxi services, and excursion providers. If something seems wrong, don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion or compare prices before committing.
The importance of travel insurance
While travel insurance can’t stop scammers, it can provide peace of mind if you ever face theft or fraud. A good policy can cover stolen belongings like passports, wallets, or phones, as well as medical expenses if a scam leads to injury.
Some also include protection against fraudulent credit card charges. Checking what’s covered before your trip can help you avoid unexpected costs and give you one less thing to worry about.
FAQs
How can I protect myself from scams in Australia?
Research your destination beforehand, learn about common travel scams, and rely on reputable services for tours or bookings. Keep personal items secure, especially in crowded tourist areas. Double-check the legitimacy of anyone offering help or deals that seem off. If you feel pressured into paying or disclosing personal info, pause and reconsider.
Are there any tourist scams in Australia?
Although Australia is generally safe, tourist sites or busy places (like the airport or city centre) can have people who take advantage. Taxi scams, rental scams, hotel credit card fraud, and fake online bookings occur from time to time. Double-check anything that doesn’t feel right.
How can I avoid being scammed as a tourist?
Stay informed about common travel scams, keep your belongings close, use official or well-reviewed services, and never reveal your credit card or personal details impulsively. If you suspect a scam, walk away. Stay alert and consult local authorities if you have a problem.
What is the golden rule of avoiding scams?
The simplest way to avoid scams is not to rush. Scammers often push victims to decide quickly before they can think things through or verify details. Pause, trust your instincts, and seek a second opinion if needed. A genuine vendor or service provider will allow you time to make your decisions.