Try these tips to avoid travel scams when planning your dream vacation:

1. Research their reputation
Check out Angie’s List for reviews and determine if the agent you’re considering belongs to a reputable industry organization.

2. Meet face-to-face
Once you select a company to book your travel, go to the agency, meet the agent and build a relationship. If the agent earns your trust, then begin the process for what will ultimately become the financial transaction.

3. Use plastic
Pay for your services with a credit card — never cash or check — and get confirmation numbers and documentation for all planned flights, hotels, transfers and tours.

4. Plan B
Ask for a backup plan if something on your itinerary falls through. If you miss a flight or find a tour canceled, how will your agent help rectify the problem while you’re away?

5. Be realistic
Be wary of unsolicited mailings, phone calls or emails. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.