Female VO: Ahhh, vacation…

It’s what we look forward to… whether you’re driving or flying… going to see friends or just getting away from it all…

But can you tell the difference between a legitimate travel deal and some travel trick?

Smart travelers only use companies they have confidence in. Ask your friends or family for recommendations. Or, if you don’t know the company, search online by entering the company name and the word “complaints.”

And, ask questions. Lots of them. Words like “luxury” or “five-star” that sound impressive in an ad…

…might be less impressive in-person.

And, finally, if someone tells you that you’ve won a “free” vacation, don’t share your credit card information. Even if they tell you it’s just for verification.

So, when it comes to a travel deal, exercise doubt and check it out… at FTC.gov.

A tip from the Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s consumer protection agency.