As spring break approaches, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a warning to travelers about potential scams during this peak travel season.

The FTC's recent consumer alert urges vacationers to be wary of offers that seem too enticing, including "free" trips laden with hidden fees or vacations advertised at a "low, low price" that lack essential details.

The commission highlighted the importance of skepticism when encountering travel deals. "The excitement of planning a trip can make an offer for a 'great deal' seem irresistible. However, scammers often lurk behind these too-good-to-be-true offers, aiming to defraud you. Falling for such scams can turn what was supposed to be a dream vacation into a nightmare, with little chance of recovering your money," the FTC stated in its advisory.

To protect against falling victim to such scams, the FTC advises travelers to thoroughly research any travel company or agent by including terms like "scam," "review," or "complaint" in their search. Additionally, they stress the importance of not committing to any deals before receiving concrete information about accommodations, cancellation policies, and other relevant details.

A major red flag, according to the FTC, is being asked to pay for a vacation via wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency. The commission warns, "Scammers often prefer these payment methods because they are hard to trace. Agreeing to pay in such ways is almost certainly an indication of a scam."

While the FTC's warning highlights the need for vigilance, it also acknowledges that genuine deals do exist, offering tips for finding legitimate bargains. Travelers can explore affordable destinations such as Guadalajara, Mexico; Las Vegas; and Kissimmee, Florida. Additionally, considering road trips can be a cost-effective way to enjoy spring break without overspending.

In summary, while scams are a real concern, with careful planning and research, travelers can find genuine deals to make the most out of their spring break.