Martin Lewis has issued a warning to holidaymakers about the risks of booking flights and hotels separately, as uncertainty over a potential jet fuel shortage looms over the summer travel season. The MoneySavingExpert founder explained that DIY bookings could leave travellers out of pocket if flights are cancelled, as they would not be entitled to the same consumer protections as those who book a package holiday.
In a TikTok video, Lewis clarified that package holidays, booked as a single transaction, are covered by the Package Travel Regulations, meaning you can get all your money back if the flight is cancelled. However, with separate bookings, the hotel remains available and faultless, so you cannot claim a refund just because you cannot get there. He stressed that credit card or debit card protection would not help in such cases, as there is no faulty product.
Lewis also warned that travel insurance may not cover the knock-on costs. After checking 40 policies, he found only three or four that would cover hotel costs if a flight is cancelled due to jet fuel issues, most of which were linked to packaged bank accounts. Only one standalone provider offered such cover.
He advised travellers to choose flexible cancellation options and to speak directly with providers. If you accept a voucher without having free cancellation, you may be getting a better outcome than you think, he added. The Government has said there is no jet fuel shortage currently but is working on consolidating flights to prevent one.
A spokesperson for travel experts Lapland Famille echoed the advice, urging travellers to plan ahead, consider packaged deals, and check cancellation terms before paying. Lewis's warning underscores the importance of understanding how you book to protect your holiday money.
