More holidays will become packages from 1 July, as the new Package Travel Regulations come into force. 

ABTA is reminding customers that these regulations apply to holidays booked on or after 1 July, holidays booked before then will be covered by previous regulations.

Mark Tanzer, ABTA’s Chief Executive said: 

“Under the new regulations more holiday travel arrangements will be classified as packages – which offers the best form of protection for customers. Holidaymakers booking a package will have financial protection – meaning they are entitled to a refund or to be brought home if their travel company goes out of business. Their travel company will also be responsible for making sure that the customer gets the package holiday they paid for so if something isn’t provided or isn’t as expected, and the travel company or its suppliers is at fault, they will need to resolve the issue, whether it’s offering an alternative or providing a full or partial refund.

“While the number of holidays financially protected isn’t expected to significantly increase under the new regulations – the level of protection will, as they will also be required to have legal protection. Whether a trip is covered by these regulations or not will depend on what is booked and how it is booked, so it is very important to check with the travel company at the time of booking. It’s also important to remember that these regulations apply to holidays booked on or after 1 July, holidays booked before then will be covered by existing regulations.“

ABTA has compiled a guide to help consumers understand what the new regulations may mean for their travel arrangements, which is available via abta.com/newpackagetravelregulations. 

ABTA has been helping its members to understand their legal responsibilities and support them in making any necessary changes. Consumers not booking with an ABTA Member will have to rely on UK Trading Standards if they are concerned a company they are dealing with is not providing the correct protection for travel arrangements.