There’s nothing more exciting than
planning a new adventure.
But even seasoned travelers can make common mistakes that lead to stress,
missed opportunities, or wasted money.
Whether you’re booking a gondola ride in Venice or a desert safari in Dubai, avoiding these pitfalls can help you enjoy every moment of your trip.
At Viator, we’re here to help you travel smarter. Here are five booking mistakes travelers often make—and how you can avoid them using Viator’s tools and tips.
1. Waiting Too Long to Book Popular Experiences
Some travelers assume they can book activities when they arrive. But top-rated tours—especially in peak season or tourist hotspots—sell out quickly. Waiting until the last minute can mean missing out entirely or settling for a less-than-ideal option.
Avoid it: Use Viator to book early and secure your spot. Many experiences come with free cancellation, so you can lock in your plans now and stay flexible later.
2. Ignoring the Cancellation Policy
It’s easy to overlook the fine print when you’re caught up in trip planning. But not all tours have the same cancellation rules. If plans change and you're outside the refund window, you could lose your money.
Avoid it: Always read the cancellation policy listed on every Viator experience page. You can also filter your search results to show only experiences with “Free Cancellation” for maximum flexibility.
3. Not Reading Verified Reviews
Beautiful photos and glossy descriptions are enticing, but they don’t always tell the full story. Some travelers skip the reviews—and then regret it when reality doesn’t match expectations.
Avoid it: On Viator, every review is written by a verified traveler. Browse both the glowing and critical reviews to get an honest, well-rounded view of the experience. Look for details about guides, transportation, and overall organization.
4. Overbooking the Itinerary
It’s tempting to pack your day with back-to-back tours, but travel delays, fatigue, or unexpected detours can throw everything off. Overbooking leaves no room for rest—or for spontaneous discoveries.
Avoid it: Use Viator’s duration and start-time filters to plan a manageable schedule. Leave buffer time between tours and choose a mix of high-energy and low-key activities.
5. Not Checking What’s Included
Assuming that transportation, meals, or entrance fees are included can lead to surprise costs and confusion. Every tour is different—what’s included varies widely.
Avoid it: Read the “What’s Included” section on each Viator activity page to know exactly what you’re paying for. If you’re unsure, Viator’s customer support is just a click away.
Travel Smarter with Viator
Booking your dream trip should feel exciting—not overwhelming. With transparent pricing, verified reviews, flexible options, and 24/7 support, Viator makes it easy to plan confidently and avoid costly mistakes.
Start planning the right way—visit Viator.com and turn your next trip into your best one yet.
