Real Advice for Avoiding Scams as a Backpacker (Especially in Southeast Asia & India)
Backpacking is one of the most enriching ways to see the world, but it’s not without its pitfalls. And perhaps the most frustrating? Getting scammed. From overpriced tuk-tuks to fake monks and dodgy SIM card sellers, scams can add to mental fatigue, and chip away at your budget and your trust in people.
After over a decade on the road, especially through Southeast Asia and India, I’ve seen (and sometimes fallen for) more travel scams than I care to admit. This article tells some hard-won backpacker scam advice, from first-hand mistakes to region-specific tricks to watch for, so you can avoid learning the hard way. You may also want to read our more generic safety and security when travelling advice.
Why Scams Target Backpackers
Backpackers are prime targets because:
- They’re often new to a region and don’t speak the language
- They carry cash, phones, and gear
- They are seen as wealthy people
- They’re looking for budget deals, which scammers exploit
- Many stay in tourist hotspots, which are ripe hunting grounds for con artists
Scams by Region
Thailand
Closed Palace Scam
A tuk-tuk driver tells you the Grand Palace is closed for a ceremony and offers a cheap city tour instead, leading you to tailor shops or gem stores where they earn commission.
Avoid: Don’t believe anyone saying an attraction is closed. Check yourself online or ask inside another shop.
Jet Ski Scam (Phuket, Pattaya)
You’re blamed for damaging a rented jet ski, even if you didn’t, and threatened with police unless you pay.
Avoid: Always inspect and photograph rentals thoroughly. Stick to companies with lots of reviews.
Vietnam
Taxi Meter Rigging
Some taxis use tampered meters that rack up inflated fares, often double or triple the normal rate.
Avoid: Stick to trusted taxi apps like Grab. If flagging one, insist on the meter and watch it closely.
Currency Confusion
The Vietnamese Dong has a lot of zeroes. Some vendors give you change in smaller notes and hope you don’t notice.
Avoid: Learn the notes and double-check change every time.
India
Fake Tourist Office (Delhi and Agra)
You’re told your hotel no longer exists or your train is cancelled. You’re then taken to a fake agency that charges absurd amounts to help.
Avoid: Book through official channels or apps. Don’t trust drivers to guide you to a better agency.
Free Blessing Scam
Someone offers you a flower or string bracelet at a temple, gives a blessing, then demands a donation.
Avoid: Just say no thank you and keep walking. If you want a blessing, approach a temple official yourself.
Indonesia (Bali)
Temple Sarong Fees
At temples, unofficial guards charge you for sarong rental, even at places where they’re normally free.
Avoid: Always carry your own sarong or confirm prices at the entrance.
Scooters and Police Stops
You’re pulled over, told your license isn’t valid, and asked to pay a fine, often into the officer’s pocket.
Avoid: Always wear a helmet, carry an International Driving Permit, and be polite but firm.
Cambodia
Orphanage Tours
Children are exploited to solicit donations from tourists. Many of these places aren’t even orphanages.
Avoid: Don’t visit orphanages. Support NGOs instead that don’t involve direct interaction with children.
One Dollar Scams (Street Kids)
Kids ask for milk or food instead of money. You agree, they lead you to a shop where you’re grossly overcharged and the store splits profits with them.
Avoid: Donate to local charities instead of responding to street solicitation.
Universal Backpacker Scams
- “Let me show you this secret bar or shop” – a commission scam
- Pickpockets at bus stations or markets
- Fake Wi-Fi networks stealing your data
- Dodgy tour agencies or bus companies
- ATM card skimming
- Corrupt officials (particularly at the border)
- Overcharging via unclear pricing (massages, tuk-tuks, etc.)
How to Spot and Avoid Scams
- Learn local scams before arriving (Reddit, travel blogs, YouTube)
- Use trusted apps (Grab, Booking.com, 12Go, Google Translate)
- Use reviews and word of mouth
- Avoid too-good-to-be-true offers
- Confirm info with your hostel staff
- Always ask for the price up front
- Photograph everything you rent
- Check government travel advice websites for latest scams and safety information
- Stay polite but firm. Scammers often back off when challenged
Scams I’ve Personally Experienced
The “Train Is Cancelled” Scam – Delhi
My driver insisted my train to Agra was cancelled and brought me to a shady “government agency” that tried to sell me a private driver instead. Luckily, I walked away and found the station open and fully operational.
Scooter Trouble in Bali
Stopped by police, told my license was invalid despite showing an International Driving Permit. I refused to pay a bribe and stood firm. They let me go after some uncomfortable back-and-forth.
The Free Bracelet Trap – Siem Reap
I accepted a free bracelet from a smiling local outside a temple. Moments later, they demanded ten dollars for a blessing. It was awkward, and I paid just to leave – lesson learned.
I talked here about other scams I’d experienced in an article I wrote after my very first backpacking trip.
Final Advice
Don’t let scam anxiety ruin your trip. Most locals are kind and honest, but it’s wise to be prepared. Stay alert, stay sceptical of anything that feels off, and trust your gut. If you do get scammed, shake it off, every backpacker has a story.
It’s why good insurance matters for backpackers.
Backpacking is about experiences. Just try not to fund a scammer’s next one.
