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Buying A Holiday Online

The latest bout of rainy weather may tempt you to book a holiday on line but beware. If you don’t follow a few rules you could lose your money and holiday and give yourself a big headache.

  • Research the company: see if anyone has reviewed them, but remember – anyone (including the company itself) could have written them;
  • Find out what happens to your money if the company goes under before you take your holiday. A bond, with an organisation like ATOL, protects your money. If there is no bond (even reputable companies are not necessarily members), ask if there are other arrangements to keep your money separate from the company’s own money so it is safe from creditors.
  • If possible, pay by credit card as this protects you under the Consumer Credit Act against fraud.
  • Make sure the site is secure to enter credit card information – look for the padlock symbol at the bottom of the window frame and check that the website begins with “https://). But don’t be fooled - the padlock image could be a forgery so click on the padlock through to the certificate of encryption which must match the name and address given by the company.
  • Check the small print on the airline booking terms and conditions for any hidden costs, the baggage limits and any check-in arrangements.
  • Read the small print on your travel insurance to make sure the cover includes repatriation in case the travel company can’t fly you home, goes bust or a major incident occurs like a tsunami.
  • Companies offering package tours must also comply with the Package Travel Regulations. These give you legal rights and require the travel company to give details of what is included (and not included) in the price as well as a full description of the holiday.
  • Keep an eye on your bank statements for any unauthorised transactions.
  • Print and keep all online holiday or travel orders, confirmations and receipts.. Licensed and accredited holiday firms and travel agents must send you receipts for payments and confirmations of bookings.

Remember – if a deal looks too good to be true it probably is. All that said – please enjoy your holiday and be safe!

For further information or advice contact Laura Gilbert on 01752 675541 or email laura.gilbert@foot-ansteys.co.uk

Published 10/07/2008.

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