The dream of traveling abroad is alive and well for many Nigerians, whether it’s for vacation, work, relocation, or education. But for every real opportunity out there, there’s a scam waiting to snatch your money and your peace of mind. Sadly, many people have learned the hard way that not all travel offers are genuine.
To help you avoid disappointment, here are six major red flags to watch for when booking trips, especially online.
1. Unbelievably Cheap Travel Packages
We all love a good deal, but if someone offers a complete relocation package , visa, flight, accommodation, and job offer to the UK, Canada, or UAE for just ₦350,000, it’s time to pause. While discounts do exist, extremely cheap travel offers are usually scams. A legitimate agency will provide a clear breakdown of costs and explain why an offer is discounted. Always compare pricing with the current market rate and ask questions before committing.
2. Urgent “Pay Now or Miss Out” Pressure
One of the most common scam tactics is urgency. You’ll hear phrases like “Only three slots left” or “Pay within the next two hours to secure your space.” This strategy is meant to rush you before you can think clearly or verify the offer. If an agent pushes you to act fast and discourages you from doing your own research or asking questions, that’s a major red flag. Real travel consultants give you time to decide and encourage you to make informed choices.
3. No Physical Office or Real Contact Details
A trustworthy travel agency should have a professional identity, whether it’s a verifiable office, an official website, or even a LinkedIn presence. Scammers often operate entirely via WhatsApp or Instagram, without any traceable contact information. Before sending money or documents, ask to meet in person or set up a video call. Google their business name and check if they are registered. If you live nearby, visit their office and confirm their legitimacy.
4. Fake Reviews or No Reviews at All
If a page has no reviews, testimonials, or customer engagement, it’s a red flag. Some scammers use stolen photos and write fake success stories, but these often fall apart when you dig deeper. Look for genuine, verifiable reviews. Ask to speak with past clients. Better still, go to a trusted travel forum or Facebook group and ask, “Has anyone used this agency before?” Honest feedback from others can help you avoid getting scammed.
5. Promising Guaranteed Visas
Here’s a hard truth. No agency can guarantee you a visa. Visa decisions are made by embassies and immigration officers, not consultants. If someone tells you your visa is “100% sure” once you pay, that’s a big warning sign. Instead, expect professional support and honest advice to improve your chances. A genuine agency will guide you on how to prepare a strong application and explain what to do if your visa is denied, including possible reapplication options.
6. No Receipts, Agreements, or Official Communication
Another major red flag is a lack of documentation. If they ask you to pay into a personal account, offer no receipts, and avoid written agreements, they’re not running a real business. Every payment should come with a receipt, invoice, or at least an email confirmation. Keep records of your communication, including WhatsApp chats and payment screenshots. Reputable agencies understand the need for a paper trail and will never leave you without proof of service.
Travel should be an exciting and rewarding chapter of your life, not a nightmare. As scammers become more creative, it’s more important than ever for Nigerians to stay alert and do proper checks before paying anyone. If something feels suspicious, trust your instincts.
Always work with registered, transparent agencies that are easy to reach, willing to answer your questions, and committed to your success. Don’t let desperation push you into a trap. With patience, the right opportunities will come.