Going on vacation is one of those things that a lot of people look forward to. It’s nice to just sit back, be calm and relax. Unfortunately, a lot of people while on vacation will become too relaxed, let their guard down and become a little bit lazy when it comes to watching their finances. Keep in mind that tourists/vacationers are the perfect targets for scammers, paying too much for meals and making errors that end up in lost money. Below, I’m going to give you a list of money mistakes that can totally ruin your vacation experience.

#1. Credit card fraud.

This is something that I’ve had to deal with in the past and it is not fun in any way, shape or form. When you’re on vacation, you’re probably using your credit card or debit card at a bunch of different locations, so you’re more susceptible to people gaining your personal information. The best thing you can do to prevent this from happening is keeping an eye on your card balances and statements even while you’re on vacation. I have mobile alerts set up for my credit cards and debit card, so I know when transactions occur. Alternatively, you can go online and check your account information.

Also, credit card companies will monitor your account activity and they’ll take note when they see a bunch of purchases. Therefore, in an attempt to protect you, they could flag your account and suspend your card, because they think fraudulent purchases are being made on your account. This could easily ruin your vacation, because you could be stranded without money. Therefore, it’s important that you let your bank or credit card company know when you’re going on vacation, so they don’t inadvertently flag your account.

#2. Watch for pickpockets.

There are some cities, especially in Europe, where you constantly have to be careful of pickpockets. If you’re a guy, you should try to wear a wallet with a chain or carry your wallet in your front pockets. As for women, you try to carry a fanny pack with your money in it or a money belt. Leave things like fancy bracelets and necklaces at home, because it’s easy for someone to run up and break those off of you and run away.

#3. Overspending.

Overspending is a common problem for vacationers. Always go to bargain websites and search for the best motels/hotels that have the cheapest rates. Also, try to find a hotel/motel that offers free breakfast. Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks with you if you’re driving to your vacation destination. That way, you spend less money on fast food and at gas stations.

#4. Avoid timeshares.

Chances are, you’ve been on vacation before and you’ve been approached about a timeshare offer. It can sound tempting, because they’ll usually offer you incentives to listen to their sales pitch, but who wants to spend time on their vacation listening to some salesman that’s trying to sell you on a poor investment? Avoid timeshares, because if you take them up on the opportunity, you’ll spend a ton of money and you’ll likely kick yourself for it in the future.