A travel specialist has advised holidaymakers to book package holidays to ensure greater consumer protection in the event of cancellations. This advice comes amid concerns over jet fuel supplies due to the Middle East conflict, though the UK government states there are no immediate issues.
Package Holidays Offer More Security
Rob Brooks, a travel specialist and influencer for On the Beach, claims that package holidays are safer right now. He explains that booking flights and hotels separately leaves travellers vulnerable, while package holidays provide comprehensive protection. Brooks shared his insights on TikTok, where he has over 139,000 followers.
His advice aligns with that of Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert. Lewis previously warned that DIY bookings, where flights and hotels are booked separately, may not offer refunds if flights are cancelled. He noted that under Package Holiday Regulations, package bookings generally ensure full refunds or alternative arrangements.
How Package Holidays Protect You
According to Brooks, when you book a package holiday with companies like On the Beach, LoveHolidays, Jet2 Holidays, or TUI, everything is coordinated. If a flight is cancelled, the holiday company takes responsibility to find an alternative flight or provide a full refund. He emphasises that while 99% of flights operate as planned, the protection matters for the remaining 1%.
On the Beach has committed to same-day refund processing for cancelled flights. Caspar Nelson, a holiday expert at the company, stated that customers deserve certainty and that the company will quickly find alternative routes or refund the entire holiday on the same day.
DIY Booking Considerations
For those preferring DIY bookings, it is advisable to choose hotels with free or limited cancellation policies. Travellers should also check their travel insurance, as policies may not cover hotel costs if a flight is cancelled.
A LoveHolidays spokesperson highlighted that package holidays offer built-in protection under Package Travel Regulations and the ATOL scheme, ensuring customers can travel with confidence. The Mirror has contacted Jet2 Holidays and TUI for comment.
