Scam in LaosBuses and trains
Understated bus journey times in Laos
How it works
Sellers advertise shorter journey times than the trip normally takes. This can make a service seem more convenient and leave you missing later plans.
Warning signs
- One seller promises a much faster trip than others.
- The estimate leaves out stops or transfers.
- The arrival time sounds unusually precise for a long road journey.
How to avoid it
- Compare journey estimates from more than one operator.
- Allow extra time before onward travel.
- Ask whether stops and transfers are included in the estimate.
If it happens to you
Tell your accommodation or onward operator about the delay. Keep evidence of any specific arrival promise if seeking a refund.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- If you are injured or feel unwell after suspect alcohol, seek urgent medical help.
- Freeze stolen or affected cards. Contact your card issuer about unauthorised charges or an ATM debit without cash.
- Save receipts, tickets, messages and screenshots. Write down the time, location, amount and what happened.
- Report the incident to police when safe. Ask for a written report, especially if you need an insurance claim. Your accommodation may help with language.
- Contact your insurer and, for a stolen passport, detention or serious trouble, your embassy or consulate. Ask the seller or booking provider for a refund where appropriate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the understated bus journey times scam in Laos?
Sellers advertise shorter journey times than the trip normally takes. This can make a service seem more convenient and leave you missing later plans.
How can I spot it early?
One seller promises a much faster trip than others. The estimate leaves out stops or transfers. The arrival time sounds unusually precise for a long road journey.
How do I avoid understated bus journey times in Laos?
Compare journey estimates from more than one operator. Allow extra time before onward travel. Ask whether stops and transfers are included in the estimate.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Tell your accommodation or onward operator about the delay. Keep evidence of any specific arrival promise if seeking a refund.
Where in Laos does this happen?
Travel-agent sales for routes linking Luang Prabang with Vang Vieng and Vientiane It has been reported in Luang Prabang.
How common is this scam in Laos?
Occasional. Laos is generally a low-crime country, but petty theft and tourist overcharging remain concerns. Watch for inflated transport fares, misleading ticket sellers, money-exchange tricks and counterfeit goods. Prices below are examples from different years, so check the full amount before paying.
Are there similar scams in Laos?
Yes: high bus-ticket markups, the 'sold out' VIP bus pitch, extra bus-station fee demand.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or fraud in person when safe. Ask for a written record. Assistance may be limited, and language barriers can make reporting harder. Nearby police boxes in Vientiane: after a bag snatch, shout immediately to attract attention and alert nearby police. Card issuer and ATM bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze a card or dispute a transaction. For missing ATM cash, provide the location, time, amount and receipt. Hotel, transport operator or booking provider: present the receipt and booking details. Explain the difference between what was promised and delivered, and request a correction or refund. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's official consular service for a stolen passport, detention or serious difficulties. Use contact details from its official website. Travel insurer: report the loss promptly through its claims or assistance service. Keep receipts, evidence of ownership and any police report.
What number do I call in an emergency in Laos?
Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital, open 24/7: +85671254027.
Reviewed by @snuck