Introduction
Have your travel plans been disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic? If you’re unsure about your rights or how to get a refund, this guide is here to help. We’ll walk you through the steps to understand your options, whether your travel company has cancelled your booking or you need to cancel it yourself. If you need further assistance, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are ready to provide the guidance you need to resolve your legal issues. With Contend, getting the easiest legal help in the UK is just a click away.
If your travel plans have been disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic, you may be wondering if you can get a refund or if you have the option to reschedule your trip. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand your rights and what steps to take.
Check Your Travel Company’s Policy
First things first, visit the website of the company you booked with or look through any emails they’ve sent you. Many companies have specific policies in place regarding refunds due to coronavirus.
Your rights can differ based on two main scenarios:
- The travel company canceled your booking.
- You want to cancel your booking, but the trip is still on.
If the Company Canceled Your Booking
If the travel company has canceled your trip, you are generally entitled to a refund. This applies if your booking was for:
- A package holiday (make sure to check if your booking qualifies as a package).
- A flight departing from the UK.
- A flight arriving in the UK with a UK or EU airline.
- A flight arriving in the EU with a UK airline.
For specific instructions on how to request a refund for a canceled flight, visit the airline’s website or contact their customer service.
If your booking was for something else, like a hotel or a rental, review the terms and conditions to see if you are eligible for a refund and how long it typically takes to process.
If You Want to Cancel Your Booking
If you wish to cancel your trip but the company hasn’t canceled it yet, your options may be limited. You might not have an automatic right to a refund if:
- You need to self-isolate.
- You have to quarantine.
- Travel restrictions change for your destination.
In this case, check your booking’s terms and conditions to see if you can request a refund. If the government advises against travel due to health risks, inform the company, as this might strengthen your case for a refund.
If the company is unwilling to provide a refund, it may be best to wait and see if they cancel the booking themselves, as this would entitle you to a refund.
What If You’re Offered a Voucher Instead of a Refund?
Sometimes companies will offer vouchers instead of cash refunds. While this might seem appealing, it’s usually best to request a refund instead, especially if the company canceled your travel plans.
If you consider accepting a voucher, make sure to read the fine print, including:
- The expiration date of the voucher.
- Whether you can later change your mind and opt for a cash refund.
If the Company Has Gone Out of Business
If the travel company you booked with is no longer in business, you’ll want to check if your trip is still happening. You can do this by:
- Visiting the company’s website.
- Contacting them directly.
If you booked through a travel agent, reach out to them and any other providers involved in your travel, such as airlines or hotels.
If your trip is canceled, you may be entitled to a refund. For guidance on how to get your money back from a company that has ceased trading, check official resources.
If Your Refund Is Delayed
If you’re waiting longer than expected for your refund, contact the company to inquire about the status. If you urgently need the money, let them know your situation.
If the refund is still delayed beyond the promised timeframe, you can learn how to file a complaint.
If the Company Refuses to Refund You
If you’ve been denied a refund and you have travel insurance, check your policy to see if you can file a claim. You may also be covered under your home insurance or bank account insurance.
Keep in mind that if you make an insurance claim, you might have to pay an excess fee, and it could affect your future insurance rates. If you booked for someone else, you might not be able to claim unless they’re named on your insurance policy.
If you paid with a credit card or through PayPal, you might also have options for disputing the charge. However, you can only pursue one refund avenue, either through insurance or your card provider.
Need More Help?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Instead of contacting Citizens Advice, we recommend trying Contend’s legal expert chat. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems.
If you believe a company has treated you unfairly, you can also report them to Trading Standards.
Your support is vital for organizations like Contend to continue helping people navigate their legal issues.
For more information on dealing with travel disruptions, visit GOV.UK for the latest updates on travel restrictions and advice.
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