State Consumer Protection Division offers advice for safe spring …

ALBANY — With the incoming warm weather and spring and summer seasons, the New York State Division of Consumer Protection has some tips and advice to ensure the best experience for your travel plans. State officials said travel involves certain rights, the need to safeguard money and the threat of unique scams. “As warmer weather approaches and New Yorkers begin planning their spring and summer travels, it’s important to be on the lookout for red flags that could derail your trip before it even begins,” said Secretary of State Robert J.

Rodriguez. “Following our tips can help consumers safely book and enjoy their vacations while steering clear of scammers and protecting their hard-earned money.”

Safe travel tips:

  • Plan for possible cancellations and delays. Pack a change of clothes, electronic device chargers and snacks in your carry-on luggage to support travel disruptions.

    A cancellation that impacts your return home will require additional resources, budget for an extra day or two to sustain yourself until you can get home.

  • Book early morning tickets. You will have greater options for getting to your destination on time.
  • Consider traveling to a larger airport. Larger metropolitan airports offer more direct flights than regional airports.

    Direct flights avoid missed connections and cancellations in a city outside of your hometown or destination.

  • Get all confirmations in writing. To safeguard against scams via changes in agreements, consumers should always get confirmation of plans in writing, whether booking online, over the phone, or in person. Retailers are required to disclose terms and conditions to consumers — always receive a copy of the agreement and save it for reference.
  • Beware of “all inclusive” or too good to be true offers.

    All-inclusive offers sound great, but can have hidden charges and fees in their terms and conditions. Consumers may not even be aware of such fees until check-out, when their bill is higher than advertised. Sometimes these offers come with an agreement to join a membership or participate in a presentation.

    Always inquire about mandatory fees that may not appear in the advertised price, such as resort fees and taxes. Read the fine print.

  • Try to pay with a credit card, if you can. Credit cards often offer more protection than paying by cash, check or debit card.

    Some credit card companies also offer perks like trip insurance or concierge service while traveling and may offer additional protections if the trip is cancelled.

  • Review your travel agreements. The New York State Truth in Travel Act safeguards consumers against fraud, false advertising, misrepresentation, and other abuses.
  • Consider trip insurance and whether you need a ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ policy. Travel insurance can offer consumers relief in case of emergency before or during their trip, however, most standard travel insurance policies do not cover trip interruption or cancellation due to COVID-19.

The Division of Consumer Protection also warned to be aware of common travel scams, like being told you have “won” a free vacation.

These scams usually involve hidden fees or necessary deposits, with a limited time to accept the offer or a request to pay the fees in a strange way, such as through gift cards, a wire transfer or cryptocurrency.

mothercare listed on couponmatrix.ukbella-italia listed on couponmatrix.ukbulk listed on couponmatrix.ukclarins listed on couponmatrix.ukmiss-selfridge listed on couponmatrix.ukmissy-empire listed on couponmatrix.uk
mothercare listed on couponmatrix.ukWhether you’re prepping for a new arrival or fast-approaching the terrible twos, Mothercare has you and your children’s best interests at heart with extensive ranges of pushchairs, furniture, and maternity accessories. Use a Mothercare discount code when you pay for your next order and your purchase will feel a whole lot easier on your bank account, letting you fit out your nursery or your 5-year-old’s wardrobe stress-free.
bella-italia listed on couponmatrix.ukSpaghetti, penne, ravioli; whatever your taste in pasta, you’ll find it fresh and hot at Bella Italia. With your Bella Italia vouchers to hand, you can feed the whole family with mouth-watering meals, packed with authentic Italian flavour for an affordable price. Don’t forget to add sides of garlic bread and olives for the table and enjoy an extra serving of Italian classics that will have you full up in no time.
bulk listed on couponmatrix.ukBulk™ is an iconic supplements brand helping you achieve your fitness goals. Make the most of a Bulk Powders discount code to save big on everything from vegan protein powders to high powered vitamins—whether you're looking to slim down, tone up or increase muscle mass, Bulk has a range of science-driven products to help you achieve your goals.
clarins listed on couponmatrix.ukClarins are a world-renowned brand offering the best in beauty and skincare products. The brand was launched by Jacques Courtin-Clarins in Paris back in 1954 and has gone on to develop some of the most popular beauty products on the market. Their reputation is guaranteed by a dedication to plant-based science and a willingness to continually improve an already incredible range. Grab yourself a Clarins discount code to make incredible savings on your skincare and cosmetics! Whether you’re stocking up on your favourite day-cream or looking for your new cosmetic crush, make sure we are your first stop when shopping for beauty products with Clarins.
miss-selfridge listed on couponmatrix.ukThe younger sister of high-end department store Selfridges has been outfitting the nation in youthful fashion in the latest designs since the 60s - the first line of clothing was, in fact, a range of paper dresses designed to be worn once and then thrown away. Since then, the store has introduced lines of jeans, shoes, and accessories to name but a few, and manages over 170 shopfronts in the UK alone. Use a Miss Selfridge discount code to get money off your next order of partywear, loungewear, or back to basics separates and you’ll be catwalk ready on the cheap, whatever your day holds for you. Miss Selfridge is now a part of ASOS, so you can shop all your fave Miss Selfridge styles over on the ASOS website.
missy-empire listed on couponmatrix.ukWelcome to Missy Empire, for the girls who like to rock their own style with attitude. With a large selection of casual wear, swim wear, night wear and all-round every wear, Missy Empire is the one stop outlet for all your fashion clothing and accessories and now, with your Missy Empire discount codes, you can enjoy fast fashion for less. Love being you with the fashion range from Missy Empire.