Money Talk
SUE’S GUIDE TO Holiday Refunds
Most of us have probably seen our travel plans come crashing down in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
If you’ve got a holiday booked, how do you get your money back? Flight cancellations If your flight’s cancelled, you should get a refund. Some airlines are offering to rebook you for free, but stand your ground if you want a refund. It can take time, and may not be easy as call centre helplines will be busy. Holiday bookings If you booked a package deal, say a flight and hotel, your travel agent or tour operator should refund your money if the trip’s cancelled. Some operators are offering vouchers, above the price you paid, for use against future trips. It’s up to you if you take this option or push for a refund.
If you’ve booked your own place to stay, check the small print on cancellation. Many places including Airbnb have relaxed rules so you can cancel without incurring losses.
Train travel
If you’ve booked advance train tickets, you can cancel and get a refund. Contact your train operator for details. Eurostar is offering e-vouchers for passengers to re-book later in the year, but you can ask for a refund if your train is cancelled.
Trips, tours and other losses
If you’ve pre-booked tickets, tours or hire cars which will be lost if your holiday or flight is cancelled you may be able to recover the money if you have Travel Disruption cover. You’ll need to pay the policy excess, though.
SUE’S TIPS:
◆ Lots of attractions are offering refunds or the chance to rebook tickets. Check websites for details.
◆ If you paid by credit card and flights are cancelled, you can claim from your card company. This is providing the flight cost over £100 and you booked direct.
◆ Debit cards also offer some protection, so ask your bank about a chargeback.