How to Pay Indian Travel Agencies Safely Without UPI or PayTM Risks
Making advance payments to Indian travel agencies can be nerve-wracking, especially when unfamiliar digital payment platforms like UPI, PayTM, or PhonePe are involved. While widely used in India, these apps may pose risks for international tourists or anyone unfamiliar with their structure and security protocols.
So, how do you securely send money to Indian travel businesses without exposing yourself to fraud or losing your money? This blog will discuss the most secure payment options, what not to do, and how Indian Travel Help can help you if something goes awry.
Why Not Use UPI/PayTM for International Transactions?
Although UPI and PayTM are well-liked in India, they have certain restrictions for non-resident or first-time users:
- No reversal of transactions for fraud or erroneous amounts
- No protection policies for buyers
- Challenge in tracing transactions from foreign banks
- Spoofed UPI QR codes are a rampant trick technique
- Disputes are poorly managed without institutional intervention
That’s why numerous global travelers are cautioned to seek out more traceable, secure methods of paying.
Secure Ways to Pay Indian Travel Agencies
✅ 1. Credit Card (Through a Secured Gateway)
One of the most secure modes of payment is through the use of a credit card through a safe, encrypted payment gateway such as Razorpay, CC Avenue, or PayPal India.
Why it’s safe:
- Transaction receipt and reference ID created
- Chargeback facility present in the event of fraud
- Improved fraud detection systems
- Cross-globally accepted and traceable legally
Request the agency to make a direct payment link to you from a confirmed gateway, not through an agent or application of any third party.
✅ 2. Bank Wire Transfer (NEFT/SWIFT Transfer)
For booking high-value packages, bank-to-bank transfer is advisable.
Safety checklist:
- Verify agency’s registered company name and bank information
- Request invoice with GST number (India’s business tax registration)
- Keep a copy of the transfer evidence
- Do not make transfers from personal accounts; pay only to company accounts
Wire transfers are slower but more secure and document-friendly for legal reasons.
✅ 3. PayPal for Verified Merchants
Some Indian agencies accept PayPal payments, especially those serving international clients.
Benefits:
- Buyer protection policy
- Instant transaction records
- Global customer support
- Can be used with your credit/debit card without exposing card numbers to the merchant
Note: Ensure the merchant account is “PayPal Verified.”
✅ 4. Escrow Services (For High-Value Bookings)
An escrow service holds the money until the service is confirmed or delivered.
Some reputable platforms or companies offer travel-related escrow services for large groups or custom itineraries.
Pros:
- Money is only released after your approval
- Ideal for customized tours or charter bookings
- Reduces risk of sudden cancellations or fraud
Ask Indian Travel Help if such an arrangement can be set up for your booking.
✅ 5. Google Pay Business (Not Personal)
While Google Pay is another UPI-based app, some Indian travel companies are now verified on Google Pay Business, which offers slightly better accountability.
Use only if:
- Agency has verified business profile on Google
- Receipts and GST invoices are given
- Business name tallies the receipt from your booking
Still, this option should be your last resort after other secure options
⚠️ Red Flags to Look Out For
- Requests to transfer money to personal accounts
- Agents only accept PayTM, UPI, or cash.
- Agencies do not have a website, registration, or tax ID
- Pushy to get “now or lose the deal”
- No receipt or invoice that is given after payment
Always cross-verify agency details, and if in doubt, reach out to Indian Travel Help for verification.
What to Do If You’ve Already Made a Risky Payment
If you’ve sent money via UPI or PayTM and now suspect fraud:
- Take screenshots of payment and chat records
- Immediately call the bank or app support to request a block (if within minutes)
- File a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Portal: cybercrime.gov.in
- Contact Indian Travel Help for guide legal assistance and recovery steps.
Time is of the essence. The sooner you call, the better are your chances of recovering your money.
Contact Indian Travel Help for Safe Travel Planning
Scared of fraudsters traveling agencies, dud payments, or packages? Indian Travel Help offers you:
- Agency background checks
- Handling of disputes at Indian authorities
- Documentation to file complaints and recover
- Legal escalation if required.
We make sure that your Indian travel experience begins positively.
Reach Indian Travel Help
Website: www.indiantravelhelp.com
Email: support@indiantravelhelp.com
Availability: 24/7 Support
Avoid jeopardizing your journey because of an incorrect method of payment. Allow us to confirm the safest path for your travel money.
✅ Conclusion
Invoicing a travel agency in India need not be unsafe—provided you use the right options. You should always use traceable, invoice-backed payments via trusted gateways. Steer clear of UPI and PayTM unless the business is totally verified, and do not make payments to personal accounts.
If unsure, reach out to Indian Travel Help and stay covered all the way.
