Holidays are back in full swing, but what if your package trip goes belly up?
February 22, 2024
Travel experts predict this Summer will be the busiest in years as bookings return to pre-pandemic levels. People are booking earlier than ever with package holidays still a popular choice for holiday makers.
Holiday bookings don’t always go smoothly though, unexpected hiccups can arise. The good news is that you have consumer rights when travelling. Let’s look at some of the most common questions we get asked and what your consumer rights are.
Am I covered with a travel agent?
It’s true to say your consumer rights and protections depend on the type of holiday you choose. If you have booked a ready-made holiday, your travel agent is responsible for making sure your holiday goes smoothly. A package holiday is a one price fits all trip which includes at least two different travel services (transport, accommodation, car hire, guided tours/waterpark ticket activities etc).
What kind of circumstances am I covered for?
You are covered in the event of the travel company making unexpected changes to your booking. These could involve:
- Changing the price less than 20 days before you leave
- Lowering your standard of accommodation
- Moving the dates of your trip
- Cancelling the trip altogether
If any of these happen, your holiday agent must provide you with a replacement holiday similar in quality, or a lower grade one and refund you the difference in price.
Top Tip
Get travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday. It can cover you if you have to cancel the trip before you go. If you’re a travel junkie, it can work out cheaper to buy annual cover rather than single trip insurance. Remember, you don’t have to buy it from your travel agent, shop around!
If things go wrong when you get there
It’s up to your travel agent to put any problems right upon reaching your destination. For example, you booked a bright and spacious apartment with a balcony but when you get to the resort, you’re shown into a dark cramped apartment without a balcony.
You have the right to be offered another apartment that matches what you paid for. You also have the right to a price reduction if you find that any of your holiday services are not as agreed. A local representative on the ground should help you out with any issues on behalf of your travel agent.
Can I get refunded if I cancel the trip?
You should try and give reasonable notice if you decide to cancel. Check the terms and conditions of your contract. You might have to pay a fee to cancel. If there are extraordinary circumstances happening near your holiday location such as war or a natural disaster, you can cancel for free.
Learn more about your travel rights.
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