Traveling is one enjoyable experience, but it can also turn into a nightmare, thanks to scammers who prey on gullible travelers.

Their squid tactics can vary. From offering an unbelievably good bargain which you later find out to be false, to using fraudulent payment schemes, and even fictitious

Here are some of the possible travel scam scenarios to watch out for:

1. Requiring payment in advance without a written contract.
While advance payment, whether it is a deposit or full payment, is the norm for travel products, you must have a document to prove your remittance of the payment and the travel products covered by such payment. A written proof of your transaction will always come handy in case there will be problems later.

2. The travel company does not have a website
Deal only with reputable travel agencies that can you can check on the internet. Travel companies that do no have a website are dubious to start with. Check out your travel agency in the internet, read on the comments on their performance, and compare their offer with other companies. This way, you will not only be sure that you are dealing with a legitimate travel agency, you may even get a better bargain.

3. Unbelievably low-priced travel offers
Of course we all want to get a good bargain. But an offer that is incredibly low-priced and below market value should spur suspicion on your part. There is no such thing as a free lunch and these travel agencies exist to earn money. So if the offer is unbelievable, then investigate. It's probably not true.

4. Travel details not disclosed
Non-disclosure of travel details like hotel or airline is accepted in online auctions. But if you are dealing with a travel agency, all the details should be properly laid out. Departure and arrival time, hotel accommodation, car rental, or other information that forms part of your travel package. Demand for these information before you sign a contract or make a deposit.

If you have made that travel booking, here are some additional tips:

• Ask questions on your travel such as what amenities are covered, additional charges, if any; airlines and airports, exact dates and time of departure and arrivals, cancellation and refund policies.

• Never give personal information such as credit card numbers, social security numbers, bank account numbers, or similar information unless you have verified the caller and you are sure you are dealing with a legitimate business.

• At the airport, do not entrust your tickets or luggage or any personal belonging to anyone other than an agent of the airline at the ticketing/check-in counter, the gate, or the airline's offices. Many scam artists pose as an airline personnel and victimize trusting visitors. To be sure, check on the identity with the airline itself.