Vacation and travel sweepstakes: how to enter safely
How a sweepstakes works
A sweepstakes picks winners by chance. In the US, you can’t be made to buy something to enter. That’s why every real one says “no purchase necessary.” Many trade an entry for something free, like joining a newsletter.
Read the Official Rules first
- Who runs it, and where they are.
- Who can enter: age and where you live.
- When it closes and when the draw is.
- Exactly what the prize covers, and what you’d still pay.
- How the winner is told, and how long they have to reply.
What it’s fine to share
Your name, email, phone and mailing address are normal. The sponsor needs a way to confirm you and reach you if you win.
What you should never share
- A card number or bank details.
- Your Social Security number, just to enter.
- Any password or one-time code someone asks you to read back to them.
More on this: how to tell a real giveaway.
My cruise giveaway
A free Margaritaville at Sea cruise for you and a guest, in one cabin. Taxes, port fees and gratuities included. Up to $350 value. No purchase necessary. This giveaway is not sponsored or endorsed by Margaritaville at Sea or any cruise line. See the Official Rules. One entry per person, per email and per mobile number for each giveaway. How it works.