Don't get locked out of your vacation rental!

You checked out the pictures, compared prices and booked the perfect vacation spot. But when you arrive, the door's locked. The supposed owner can't be found. And by this time, it's too late to get that money back. While booking sites take precautions, it's happening.

DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE PAYING

First, check to see if the vacation rental or rental manager is listed with Better Business Bureau and look for reviews.

Be wary of listings with vague descriptions or few reviews. Don't let the "owner" lead you off the site to pay. Pay with a credit card so you have more protections if there are issues later. Check out the Federal Trade Commission advice on avoiding vacation scams.

CANCELED FLIGHT? NOW WHAT?

What a nightmare being told your flight is not taking off. The next flight doesn't leave until morning and they won't pay for a hotel! Airlines are not required to pay for lodging.

YOUR ONLY TRUE FLIGHT RIGHT!

If an airline cancels a flight for ANY reason, or there is a "significant" delay, you are entitled to a full cash refund. The airline may try to offer a voucher but they must give you a refund if requested. Before you fly, read the airline's policies concerning delays, cancellations and refunds. Some will provide accommodations if they cancel but it is not required. Check out your rights when you fly by clicking here.

AVOID THE RENTAL CAR DAMAGE TRAP

If you decide to drive to your destination, don't get stuck paying for rental car damage you didn't cause. Before you drive off the lot, take pictures and video of the entire car. Concentrate on any cracks, dents, or blemishes that you see, and record them with your audio explaining where they are located.

When you leave the lot, write down those issues on the contract. When you return, stay while the rental company worker goes over the car, and get a copy of your bill before you leave. This is the proof you need in case you're blamed later for issues you didn’t cause.