Many people are finding that their package holidays are being cancelled . Whilst frustrating , they are entitled to a cash refund within 14 days from termination of the holiday under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Regulations 2018.
If the travel agent /tour operator becomes insolvent , then you can claim either through ABTA or ATOL depending on whether the package holiday includes a flight and provided that the provider is a member of ABTA or ATOL . You will also be able to claim a refund from your credit card company if you paid by credit card .
Many travel companies are now offering future credit and in some cases increased incentives such as credit vouchers for an extra 20% of the holiday value , instead of a cash refund .
However, you need to be aware that if you accept a future credit voucher and use it to book a future holiday, then it is unlikely to have ABTA or ATOL protection should the provider become insolvent . Travel insurance may not cover you .
To get round this problem , providers are now offering Refund Credit Notes , which ABTA say preserve the customer`s right to a refund and come with the same financial protection as the original booking .
Therefore if you have a package holiday without flights , the Refund Credit Notes will be honoured by ABTA . However , the situation is less clear clear if your package holiday includes flights .ATOL have not yet confirmed they will honour Refund Credit Notes. There has been speculation in the media that the government will be making an announcement shortly , but the current uncertainty remains .
Please contact me on 01922 707 598 or at johnbuckle@hcbgroup.com if you need any further information .
