FAQ Friday: What do I need to know before booking a holiday?
March 31, 2023
On the last Friday of every month, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQ) from the hundreds of consumers who contact us. If you’re planning a city break or your summer holiday, this month’s FAQ Friday explains the consumer rights you should know before you book.
Is it better to book my holiday through a travel agent, or should I book my flights and hotel separately?
Your consumer rights and protections depend on the type of holiday you choose.
If you book a package holiday through a travel company, you have strong rights and protections, particularly if something goes wrong.
For example:
- Changes after booking: If the travel company makes a significant change to your holiday, they must offer you a replacement holiday of the same or better quality. They can also offer you a lower grade holiday with a refund of the difference in price, or a full refund of your booking.
- Cancellations: The travel company has the right to cancel a package holiday because of factors beyond their control. If this happens, you are still entitled to a refund, or a replacement package. You also have the right to cancel your package holiday beforehand in the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances taking place at or near your destination which would affect your holiday, or your travel to the destination. You are entitled to a full refund from the organiser.
- Insolvency protection: All travel companies selling package holidays must take out insolvency protection. This guarantee covers refunds and returns if the travel company goes out of business.
If you book a ‘DIY’ holiday – where you book flights, accommodation and leisure activities separately – you do not have the same level of protection. Each element of your travel arrangements will have separate terms and conditions so it is important to read them before you book. You also have rights if your flight or ferry is cancelled or delayed.
Find out more about the differences between package holidays and DIY holidays.
Should I buy the travel insurance included in the quote for my holiday?
You don’t need to buy travel insurance from your travel company. Some travel companies may insist that you have travel insurance in place. But you can shop around for the right insurance for you and your family.
Travel insurance can cover you for things like:
- Delayed or missed flights
- Lost luggage
- Stolen or lost passport or money
- Injury or illness on holiday
Whether you decide to book a package holiday or a DIY holiday, you should consider buying travel insurance. You should buy it as soon as you book your holiday, so that you are covered if something happens and you’re unable to travel.
Top Tip
Check your health insurance for overlap – some health insurance policies may include cover or assistance for travel-related incidents.
What can I do to make sure I’m prepared if something goes wrong on my holiday?
Before you go, do a bit of research to find out what to do if you have problems while travelling. For example:
You can find out what your rights are if your flight is cancelled or delayed at flightrights.ie. Also, find out how to complain if your luggage is lost.
If you book a package holiday, the travel company is responsible for making sure your holiday runs smoothly. You can complain to them if you are not happy with any element of your holiday, so make sure to have their phone number and email address with you.
Bring your travel insurer’s contact details with you. You can call them to find out what you need to make a claim. For example, they may ask you for a local police report for a stolen or lost item. Gather evidence to support any claim you want to make, such as photos, videos or receipts.
Learn more about your travel rights before you go.
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