They say if you’ve never been scammed or at least had someone try, you probably haven’t travelled far enough. Bangladesh offers incredible natural beauty, vibrant culture and warm hospitality. But alongside its genuine charm, the country also has its share of opportunists looking to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors.
From bustling Dhaka streets to serene coastal towns, tourists may encounter situations where a little extra caution goes a long way. Knowing what to expect means you can travel smarter, save yourself unnecessary trouble and enjoy the best of Bangladesh without falling victim to avoidable tricks.
Here are some of the most common scams:
Airport “helpers”
At Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, the arrival gates can feel overwhelming. Amid the rush of passengers and luggage carts, you may find self-appointed porters rushing to “help” with your bags. They often snatch luggage without permission, smiling as if they’re official staff, only to demand an inflated fee once outside. Some even pretend to work for the airport authority, which can make first-time visitors nervous enough to pay.
The safest option is to look for official porters in uniform who carry ID badges and follow fixed rates. If you want to handle your own bags, be firm but polite. Simply saying “No, thank you” repeatedly usually works.
The “helpful stranger” at the currency exchange
Bangladeshis are known for their warmth and friendliness, but it’s worth remembering that not every smiling face has honest intentions. Some scammers target tourists outside banks, hotels or busy markets, offering to exchange foreign currency at better-than-official rates. The trick lies in slipping counterfeit notes into the bundle or giving you less than what’s agreed upon.
To stay safe, always use authorised banks, ATMs or licensed currency exchange booths. Keep your receipts; some hotels may ask to see them and count your money carefully before leaving the counter. Avoid street-side exchanges, no matter how convincing the deal sounds.
Street vendor swaps
Dhaka’s buzzing New Market, Chattogram’s colourful streets and Sylhet’s handicraft stalls all lure visitors with unique souvenirs. However, some hawkers use sleight of hand. They display a high-quality product but while packing, quickly swap it for a cheaper or defective version. This scam is common with clothing, leather goods and handicrafts.
Tourists should insist on packing the product themselves or carefully watch the process. A quick inspection before paying can save you from disappointment later. Bargaining is normal in Bangladesh but never let the rush of the deal distract you from checking the actual product.
Fake tour guides
Cox’s Bazar, Sundarbans and Srimangal’s tea gardens are magnets for “guides” holding colourful leaflets and promising cheap, all-inclusive tours. The catch? They agree on one price but midway demand more, claiming “extra charges” for entry fees, food or transport. In the worst cases, tourists are left stranded halfway when they refuse to pay up.
To avoid such headaches, arrange guides only through hotels, recognised agencies, or tourism boards. A genuine guide will provide identification, a clear itinerary and upfront pricing.
The beach photographer
Walk along Cox’s Bazar or Kuakata and you’ll encounter enthusiastic photographers offering “just Tk 10 per photo.” They assure you that payment is only required if you like the results. But after the shoot, you’ll be shown heavily edited images or dozens of “extra” shots, with a demand for ten times the agreed amount. Some even withhold your pictures until you pay.
The safest approach is to agree on both the price and number of photos before posing. If possible, ask them to take a few on your own phone as well.
Horse riding scams
Tourists in Kuakata or Patenga often find horses lined up for rides along the beach. Owners lure you with “cheap short rides,” but halfway through, the story changes. They claim you’ve exceeded the distance or time limit and demand extra payment. This trick can be intimidating, especially when the owner insists in front of a crowd.
Avoid this by clarifying the ride duration, route and exact cost before mounting the horse. A written receipt, though uncommon, can also give you leverage in case of disputes.
Unofficial ticket agents
At bus terminals like Gabtoli or Fakirapul in Dhaka, and even near railway stations, you’ll find touts offering “help” with tickets. Many sells overpriced, fake or cancelled tickets that leave travellers stranded. Some may charge extra for “fast service,” claiming seats are scarce, only to hand over tickets at regular prices later.
To protect yourself, always buy tickets directly from official counters or use trusted booking apps widely used in Bangladesh. Apps also help avoid long queues and provide digital receipts for proof.
Most scams in Bangladesh, like elsewhere, rely on distraction and tourists’ unfamiliarity with local systems. Staying alert, asking questions and double-checking details are your best defences. Bangladesh remains an incredibly rewarding destination to explore; its warmth and natural beauty far outweigh these minor risks, if you travel informed.
