Common Airport Scams: From Baggage Fees to Fake Porters

22 July 2025

Airports... they can be a mix of excitement and chaos, right? Whether you're jetting off on a much-needed vacation or returning home after a long business trip, airports are the gateway to your next adventure. But here's the thing—amidst all the security checks, announcements, and running to boarding gates, there are scams lurking in plain sight that even seasoned travelers fall for.

Yup, airports have become hunting grounds for opportunists who know exactly when and where to strike. And no, we're not talking about your overpriced coffee or snack pack. We’re talking about full-blown scams—sneaky, clever, and sometimes shockingly bold tactics that can cost you more than just a few dollars.

In this article, we’ll unpack (pun intended) the most common airport scams, how they work, and how you can avoid being their next victim. From sneaky baggage fees to fake porters, let’s get you clued in before you take off.

1. The "Overweight Baggage" Trick

Let’s kick things off with one of the most common scams travelers face—the extra baggage fee scam.

How It Works:

At sketchy or less-regulated airports (especially in countries where corruption might be an issue), some airport staff or airline agents might tell you your luggage is overweight—even when it’s not. They’ll direct you to a private counter or ask for a cash-only fee and might even produce a “receipt” to make it look legit.

The Real Catch:

They’re pocketing the money and betting that you're too rushed, tired, or confused to question it.

How to Avoid It:

- Weigh your bag at home or use the self-check-in scales.
- Know your baggage allowance down to the gram (pun intended again).
- Ask for official documentation or payment at the main counter, not a random desk off to the side.

2. Fake Porters Offering to "Help"

Seems harmless, right? You're exhausted from the flight, and someone offers to help with your bags. Score! But not so fast.

How It Works:

These “porters” appear helpful and will approach you right at the curb, inside baggage claim, or even near customs. They’ll help with your bags, walk you outside, and then—the trap springs. They demand a ridiculous tip or worse, run off with your stuff the second you let your guard down.

The Real Catch:

They’re not airport employees. Most real porters wear branded uniforms, official tags, and operate inside designated areas.

How to Avoid It:

- Politely decline unsolicited help.
- Only use porters arranged by the airport or airline.
- Don’t hand off your bag unless you’re sure the person is legit.

3. Currency Exchange Cons

Money changers at airports are notorious for giving terrible rates. But sometimes, the scam goes beyond poor exchange rates.

How It Works:

Some exchange booths will advertise “no commission” or “best rates,” then sneak in hidden fees, give you the wrong amount of change, or use outdated rates. Others might even use sleight-of-hand tricks when counting cash.

The Real Catch:

You walk away thinking you got a fair deal when in reality, you're already down $10 or $20 before your trip even begins.

How to Avoid It:

- Exchange a small amount at the airport—just enough to get into the city.
- Use ATMs or exchange money at reputable banks downtown.
- Always count your money before walking away.

4. The Airport Wi-Fi Scam

Free Wi-Fi is a lifesaver for updating your itinerary or messaging your ride. But not all airport Wi-Fi networks are as safe as they seem.

How It Works:

Scammers create fake Wi-Fi networks with similar names as the official airport network. You connect unknowingly, and boom—they can now snoop on your data, steal your passwords, and even get access to your banking apps.

The Real Catch:

You’re not just checking your email—you’re handing over your private information.

How to Avoid It:

- Ask airport staff for the official Wi-Fi name.
- Avoid logging into sensitive accounts over public Wi-Fi.
- Use a VPN whenever possible (seriously, it's worth it).

5. Taxi and Rideshare Scams

You’ve made it out of the airport—it’s late, you’re tired, and you just want to get to your hotel. A driver waves you over, offers a “good price,” and you think, why not? Another trap!

How It Works:

Unlicensed taxis often hang around airports waiting for unsuspecting tourists. They charge outrageous fares, take the long route, or even pretend the meter is “broken.” Some have even driven passengers to the wrong location, refusing to leave until paid more.

The Real Catch:

You’re stuck with zero alternatives once you're in the car.

How to Avoid It:

- Use official taxi counters or apps like Uber/Lyft where allowed.
- Agree on a fare beforehand if you're using a local taxi.
- Avoid anyone aggressively offering you a ride inside the terminal.

6. The "Random Fee" Scam

You think you’ve paid everything—ticket, luggage, taxes. But suddenly, someone tells you there’s a “departure fee” or some form of bizarre “handling charge” you’re required to pay in cash right before boarding.

How It Works:

Scammers dress like officials or airport workers and ask for last-minute payments. They’re betting on your fear of missing the flight.

The Real Catch:

These fees don’t exist. They're completely made up.

How to Avoid It:

- Research the airport and country you're visiting ahead of time.
- Ask for a written explanation or receipt—most scammers will back off.
- When in doubt, check with your airline at the gate.

7. Fake Lost Luggage Assistance

Imagine your luggage doesn’t arrive. Annoying, right? But wait, someone nearby notices and offers to help you “file a report.”

How It Works:

They’ll ask for your baggage tag and personal info under the pretext of helping you find your luggage. Sometimes, they’ll take your details to scam you later, or even demand a fee to “expedite” the process.

The Real Catch:

Lost baggage help is always handled by your airline’s official counter—not random people hanging around looking helpful.

How to Avoid It:

- Go directly to your airline’s baggage services desk.
- Don’t share personal info with random individuals.
- Never pay to report lost luggage.

8. Duty-Free Swindles

Duty-free shops can be a sweet deal—or a cleverly disguised rip-off.

How It Works:

Some stores jack up prices beyond what you'd find outside the airport. Worse, they might sell counterfeit items, especially in less regulated airports.

The Real Catch:

“Duty-free” doesn’t always mean “cheaper” or “authentic.”

How to Avoid It:

- Do a quick price check online before buying.
- Stick to well-known brands or products you’re familiar with.
- Save your receipts in case you need to return anything.

9. Fake Surveys and “Credit Card Promotions”

Ever had someone stop you in an airport and ask you to fill out a “quick travel survey” or apply for a “travel rewards credit card”? Sounds innocent enough—but it's not always what it seems.

How It Works:

Scammers pose as marketing reps, collecting personal details under the guise of surveys, raffles, or card promotions. Some scam artists are bold enough to swipe your card through a skimmer.

The Real Catch:

You end up handing over sensitive data—or worse—being a victim of credit card fraud.

How to Avoid It:

- Politely decline unsolicited approaches.
- Never hand over your ID or credit card to someone not behind an official counter.
- If you’re interested in a travel card, apply directly through the bank or airline’s official site.

10. The Classic Distraction-and-Pickpocket Duo

This one’s old school but still super effective.

How It Works:

Someone causes a scene—maybe they “drop” something near you, bump into you “accidentally,” or start a fake argument. While you're distracted, their partner swipes your wallet, passport, or phone.

The Real Catch:

By the time you realize what’s happened, they’re long gone.

How to Avoid It:

- Keep valuables in a money belt or hidden pouch.
- Stay alert in crowded lines or boarding areas.
- Don’t let anyone get too close—trust your gut.

Final Boarding Call: Stay Sharp, Travel Smart

Airports can be overwhelming, especially when you're tired, stressed, or running late. Scammers count on that. They know your guard is down and they strike with precision. But the good news? Staying just a bit more alert can save you a lot of money, hassle, and heartache.

Always follow the golden rule: If something feels off, it probably is.

So the next time you’re wheeling through Terminal 3 with your coffee in one hand and your passport in the other, remember—you’ve got the street smarts to bypass those shady scams like a pro.

Safe travels, savvy flyer. And don’t forget to triple check your luggage weight!