Payment for Tour

What is norm for Tour Payment. I have been asked to wire funds in advance but,
I am Leary of doing so. Please advise.

Funny, I just read a post complaining about the poor performance of a tour company. The operative words there, we paid in full in advance. I understand that for other companies like namasteindiatours they don't require full advance payment..

I wouldn't wire funds as you have no comeback. If you pay by credit card and your tour doesn't materialise you may be able to claim from the card issuer. I think a lot depends on who you are dealing with. I have paid up front (by card) for a tour with a reputable operator and for deposits on hotels without a problem. I did a bit of research before doing so.

Its pretty common for a tour company to ask for a deposit so they can make the hotel reservations for you. A deposit shouldn't be more than 20% of the total cost of your arrangements. If the company you are dealing with doesn't take credit cards for the deposit, you have to wire-transfer that amount; then pay the rest upon arrival. Sometimes upon arrival, you can put the remainder on a credit card as they can swipe the card or make an impression, or if they don't take cards, they will want cash. It is not a good idea to wire-transfer the entire amount before arriving in India.

i've wired funds, no problem with the tour company.
it was an upfront percentage only. See Pinky's post--it is the norm for them to request a %age up front so they can do hotel reservatins.

IF you are using a reputable tour company, there will be no problem. Do you have references on the company?

It depends... Most reputable tour companies, big and small will a) Accept credit cards swipe and b) depending on the types of services charge your CC in full c) Make you sign or acknowledge their T&Cs.

Companies which require full wire transfers fall in two broad categories 1) Mom & pop operations which depend on cash advance to make payments in advance to their suppliers 2) Shady companies.

Unless this company has been recommended by someone you know; or has been written up as reliable by reputed sources, I'd be looking for another operator.