Comprehensive Overview of Package Holidays Laws

Package holidays are a popular way for travellers to book their holiday in one simple package. They include flights, accommodation, and often transfers.

With so many destinations and packages on offer, these holidays provide convenience and peace of mind, especially when booking through trusted providers.

Whether it's a family trip, a romantic escape, or a group adventure, there's a package to suit a range of preferences and budgets.

In this article, examples will be given to help explain what a typical package holiday includes and what makes it appealing to travellers.

What Is a Package Holiday?

So, what are package holidays? A package holiday is a travel arrangement where a tour operator combines at least two different travel services into one deal.

Typically, this includes elements such as flights and accommodation, but it can also involve transport, car hire, or other tourist services.

The key conditions for a package holiday are:

• Must last at least 24 hours or include an overnight stay
• Involves at least two of these:
  
  1. Transport (e.g. flights, transfers)
  2. Accommodation
  3. Other tourist services, such as excursions or event tickets

A clear package holiday definition is that travellers book these services together, through a single company, under one contract.

This is different from booking separate elements individually, where each may have its own provider and contracts.

Many package holidays are all-in-one deals, making planning and budgeting simpler.

Travellers typically pay one price covering all parts included in the package, and there is usually added legal and financial protection if problems arise.

Packages are offered for various types of trips, from beach holidays to city breaks.

Often, meal plans or activities can be added on as part of the combined offering.

The main advantage of a package holiday is the ease of having a complete trip arranged in one booking, often with support before and during travel.

What Is a Linked Travel Arrangement?

A linked travel arrangement is a type of travel booking where a traveller buys at least two different types of travel services from separate businesses, but the bookings are linked in some way.

Unlike package holidays, the services are not part of a single contract.

The main condition for a linked travel arrangement is that the second service is purchased either during the same visit to a travel agent’s website or shop or within 24 hours of the first booking.

Each travel service, such as transport, accommodation, or car hire, will have separate contracts and terms.

Key characteristics of a linked travel arrangement include:

• Separate contracts for each travel service
• Services are purchased from different providers
• Booking is linked by the same booking process or within a close time frame

While both package holidays and linked travel arrangements involve more than one travel service, only package holidays offer the same level of legal protection and guarantees.

In linked travel arrangements, each provider is responsible only for their own service.

Travellers should always check the terms and conditions of each booking.

It’s important to understand what each contract covers before making a linked travel arrangement.

How Do You Know What Type of Holiday You’re Booking?

Identifying the type of holiday being booked is important to understand what’s included in the price and what protection may apply.

Holiday websites and travel agents typically make this information clear before payment.

A package holiday usually combines at least two elements, such as flights and accommodation, under one price and contract.

Sometimes, transfers, meals, or excursions are included as well.

Comparison sites let users filter by holiday type, for example:

• Romantic
• Family
• Beach
• Ski
• City break

Holiday descriptions often specify whether deals are all-inclusive, half-board, self-catering, or room-only. This can affect both the price and the services received.

Below is a simple overview:

When booking online, most travel companies show a breakdown of what’s included at checkout.

TUI, for example, presents the holiday type, whether transfers are provided, and meal plans, so travellers know exactly what to expect.

If it’s not clear, it’s best to check the terms or contact the provider before confirming the booking.

Rights When Purchasing Package Holidays or Linked Travel Arrangements

When someone buys a package holiday, they gain certain legal and financial protections under regulations such as the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018.

These rules apply to holidays combining at least two elements like transport, accommodation, or other services.

Key rights include:

• The right to clear, accurate information before booking.
• Protection if any part of the package is not provided as agreed.
• Financial protection if the provider becomes insolvent.

If issues arise during the holiday, the organiser must find solutions, which could include rebooking or partial refunds.

Travellers can also expect help if they face difficulties abroad, such as transportation delays or hotel problems.

A refund must be offered if a significant part of the trip can’t go ahead due to provider failure or major changes.

The package holiday refund law specifies that in cases of cancellation by the organiser, a refund should be processed promptly, often within 14 days.

Linked travel arrangements don’t offer the same legal coverage as a full package.

Financial protection may only apply to part of the booking, and refund rights are weaker, so travellers should be aware before booking.

What Happens if Something Goes Wrong With a Package Holiday?

If something goes wrong with a package holiday, travellers are usually protected by laws that regulate package holidays in the UK.

The Package Travel Regulations require travel companies to provide assistance if issues occur during the trip.

Common problems include cancelled flights, substandard accommodation, or missed transfers.

The first step is to report the problem to the holiday provider or their local representative as soon as possible.

If the issue isn’t resolved locally, consider the following actions:

• Contact the travel company in writing after returning home.
• Include all relevant evidence, such as photos or receipts.
• Make the complaint within 28 days of return, as many companies have this time limit.

Travellers may be entitled to compensation if the holiday was not as described or if services promised in the booking were not provided.

If the travel firm is a member of an organisation like ABTA, travellers can seek additional advice or dispute resolution services.

For holidays cancelled before departure, most companies allow cancellation at any time, but cancellation fees may apply.

Fees and processes are usually detailed in the company’s terms and conditions.

How to Claim Compensation for Package Holidays and LTAs

If you need to claim compensation for a package holiday or LTA, follow these steps.

Step 1: Identify if the Holiday Is a Package or LTA

Travellers should first confirm whether their booking qualifies as a package holiday or a linked travel arrangement (LTA).

This is important as different rights and procedures apply.

Step 2: Gather Relevant Documents

It's essential to collect all paperwork, such as booking confirmations, receipts, and correspondence with the provider.

These documents can support a claim and speed up the process.

Step 3: Identify the Breach or Problem

If the holiday was not provided as described, such as missed flights, substandard accommodation, or cancelled activities, travellers should make note of these issues.

Evidence like photographs or independent reports can be helpful.

Step 4: Contact the Provider Directly

The first point of contact should be the customer service department of the tour operator or travel organiser.

Communication in writing is recommended, outlining the problems clearly and stating what resolution is expected.

Step 5: Escalate if not Resolved

If the provider doesn’t offer a satisfactory solution, travellers may contact trade bodies such as ABTA or ATOL if the operator is a member.

These organisations offer dispute resolution services and may help secure compensation.

Step 6: Use Formal Complaints and Legal Action

If all else fails, it’s possible to escalate the complaint further by appealing through consumer protection schemes or seeking legal advice.

In some cases, claims may be brought through small claims courts.

Below is a table showing common supporting evidence when making a claim:

Key Takeaways

Package holidays offer a convenient and secure way to book travel, combining flights, accommodation, and sometimes additional services under one contract, often with added legal protection. 

While linked travel arrangements involve separate contracts and offer less protection, package holidays are governed by strong regulations ensuring financial security and assistance in case of issues. 

Travellers should carefully review the inclusions and terms of any holiday package before booking to ensure it meets their needs. 

By comparing deals and being flexible with travel plans, you can find package holidays you can trust and better deals and enjoy a stress-free experience.