'Bargain' holiday deals advertised in travel agents' window displays ...
People shopping for holidays are often enticed into travel agents by the special deals advertised in window displays. However, Trading Standards Services have found problems with pricing and availability of holidays advertised by high street travel agents.
Unfortunately, some travel agents advertise holidays that are not available, or are available at a higher price than that displayed on a card in their shop window. The price advertised often does not include hidden extras such as transfers to and from the destination airport, in-flight meals or insurance.
Previous checks, by Trading Standards Officers, on some window displays found the following bogus deals on offer:
If you are planning to take a bargain break but are wary of misleading holiday advertisements and want a hassle-free holiday, take heed of these useful tips before you book!
- Check for any hidden extras not included in the advertised price e.g. insurance
- Also, check that the total price includes transfers to and from the resort airport
- Some companies now charge separately for in-flight meals - don't pay extra if you prefer not to have one
- If your accommodation is allocated on arrival, take brochures to ensure you are getting what you paid for
- If possible pay for at least part of your holiday by credit card - this provides added protection if the total cost of the holiday is over £100. (Doesn't apply to debit cards).
- Check your cancellation rights
- Remember your consumer rights are not reduced just because you pay less for a last minute deal
- If your holiday is a package deal you will have the protection of the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tour Regulations 1992.
If you believe that a travel agent is advertising holiday deals that aren't genuine ...
Tell your local Trading Standards Service and tell us - it may help us to stop them and protect other people.