Great Lakes Wire

As summer travel increases in Michigan, Attorney General Dana Nessel has reissued her Travel Tips alert to help consumers avoid common travel scams and stay informed about their rights. With many residents planning trips during the warmer months, Nessel released a video urging travelers to remain cautious when booking vacations.

"Summer is the perfect time to create lasting memories with your family, and that experience shouldn’t be disrupted by financial headaches or travel scams," Nessel stated. "A few precautions can go a long way in protecting your plans and your wallet."

Nessel advises travelers to research agents and booking sites independently, verify phone numbers and websites, check reviews, seek recommendations, and consult the Better Business Bureau along with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team for information. Travelers should also get promises in writing before providing payment information and read contracts carefully for any hidden fees.

Paying with a credit card is recommended over cash or checks due to better fraud protection. Additionally, vacation rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo may have fraudulent listings; booking through verified sources is advised.

Common travel scams highlighted by Nessel include online booking scams on third-party sites that may charge hidden fees or fail to make reservations. The "pizza flyer" scam involves fraudulent food delivery flyers slipped under hotel doors. Fake front desk calls request credit card information under false pretenses. Bait-and-switch tactics lure consumers with low prices but result in additional charges.

Nessel warns of increased fees this season as businesses adjust rates due to inflation and tariffs. Travelers should check all costs carefully.

During busy summer travels, some delays are expected on bridges and airlines. However, airline passengers are entitled to refunds for canceled or significantly changed flights if they do not accept alternatives offered. Refunds also apply for significantly delayed baggage return or extra services not provided.

“With air travel on the rise in the summer, it’s important for passengers to know their rights,” said Nessel, who has served as chair of the U.S. Department of Transportation Aviation Consumer Protection Advisory Committee.

For more resources on safe traveling within Michigan, visit Pure Michigan's website or consult the Transportation Security Administration and U.S. State Department for domestic and international travel information.

If you encounter unfair treatment while traveling in Michigan or fall victim to a scam, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team at:

Consumer Protection Team

P.O. Box 30213

Lansing, MI 48909

517-335-7599

Fax: 517-241-3771

Toll-free: 877-765-8388