Travel agency asking for two forms of ID, why?

Question

My name was picked for a promotion with the Carnival Cruise line that leave from the Port of Galveston here in Texas. The agency is located in Kemah and is called Travel Direx. I am to pick up the vouchers tomorrow. I was asked to bring two forms of identification. My mom told me and my husband to take our ID and a utility bill, not to show a bank card, credit card or social security card to them because they have no reason to ask for two forms of ID. The past month I have also received a lot of free oil change vouchers and free meals at local restaurants that I think are from me filling out so many surveys online. The only thing the place asked is do we make at least $45,000 a year. Anything less than that, according to them, you probably can't afford a cruise. They are using this to increase their client base so that is why they can afford it. Has anyone ever heard of any scams like this? Why the two forms of ID? What two forms should I take? We don't have passports yet.

Answer 1

The two forms of ID are probably to ensure that you are the person who is supposed to be picking up the vouchers. I have sailed with Royal Caribbean and have had to show two forms of ID also. It's not a big deal. It really doesn't matter what kind of ID you show, they aren't going to make copies of it obviously. I would advise against the SS card though, you just never know who has a photographic memory these days.

Answer 2

The "promotion" is a scam it's a way to get you to buy into something that is why they ask for your salary- it weeds out the poor folk. I wouldn't waste my time - but that is up to you.

Answer 3

watch the promo's for hidden charges and fees...usually you get so many extra, and add on charges,taxes ect that you could book the same cruise for the same amount of money...

Answer 4

I just got probably same phone call from travel Direx. I think this is same pattern as timeshare promotion. During the presentation, they will force you to purchase something related with vacation. They are very aggressive, and you will be very tired after presentation. Probably they will ask how many time you travel annually and how much you usually spend on each trip. Based on your answer, they will bring some travel package.

If you are not thinking to purchase anything from them, stick with that.

For bringing IDs, they need to make sure you are us citizen who are eligible. This is screening, I guess. As you mom said, it is better not to give them bank notes, Credit card number, and social security card.

Answer 5

If its to good to be true that it probably is.   You are likely going to be asked to buy something in return for the vouchers.  No honest travel agency would need to know how much you make a year even if they are giving away a cruise that you may have won.  However, many travel agencies do require two forms of ID when your are booking travel with them.   It helps to protect the agency from fraudulent credit card charges and the person listed on the credit card.  Generally they will require a copy of your drivers license and credit card front and back.

  Again this is likely a scam.

Sincerely,

BC Travel Company