With the Government outlining its road map out of lockdown, we may be looking to book that sunny getaway we’ve been dreaming about for the past year. But things aren’t completely certain – so Citizens Advice Bassetlaw have some top tips to help you maximise your chances of getting away and, if you can’t, ensure you get refunded:
Check the cancellation conditions: The closer you book to the re-opening dates, the higher the risk you’ll have to cancel. If you have to cancel your holiday because you’re self-isolating, you may not be entitled to a refund.
If you are intending to go abroad, check the local entry requirements: You might need a negative test before you fly and may need to self-isolate on arrival. If the destination country imposes new restrictions after you book but the flight is still going, you may not be entitled to a refund because you no longer want to travel.
Make sure you understand the entry requirements to the UK when you return: You might need a negative test before your return flight, or to self-isolate or quarantine when you get back. Things can change quickly and may not be the same when you return as when you booked.
Pay by credit card if you can manage the repayments: If you put at least the deposit on a credit card, the full amount of the holiday costing more than £100 and up to £30,000 is protected by Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. If you don’t have a credit card, pay by debit card rather than by cash, cheque or bank transfer.
If your holiday is cancelled, you may be offered refund credit notes: Some refund credit notes are guaranteed and offer a refund, but they all have time limits. So, make sure the travel agent is protected by The Travel Association (ABTA).
For more help and support see www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/.
You can also contact Citizens Advice Bassetlaw. Their advisers are offering telephone support from Monday to Friday, 10.00am to 2.00pm. Their local numbers are:
Local number: 01909 498894
Debt problems: 01909 498890
For all their details, including information about volunteering with them, see www.bassetlawcab.org.uk/.