Touring enthusiasts are looking forward to heading to the continent this summer. For many of you who don’t own a caravan or motorhome or don’t fancy spending days driving to your chosen location, renting a leisure vehicle once you get there is a good alternative. However, it’s important to be aware of potential interruptions to your journey.
Recent disruptions that took place over the Easter weekend reveal that many airports and airlines are still struggling to keep up with the increased demand for travel post-pandemic. Much like in the summer of 2022, Brits heading abroad should prepare for long queues, delays and cancellations.
Connor Campbell, a personal finance expert at NerdWallet, has advised on what steps to take if your flight is affected.
“Often it is difficult to know what to do when a flight is cancelled. In those initial moments of stress, it can be easy to forget your rights as a consumer. Yet you should be aware that there are various regulations that all airlines are obliged to follow that can help you to navigate the fallout of your flight cancellation.”
Under the Civil Aviation Authority, you have several rights if your flight is cancelled. First, your airline must give you the option of receiving a full refund or choosing an alternative flight. You are also entitled to a full refund for any part of the ticket you haven’t used.
Additionally, airlines must provide you with other assistance until you’re able to reach your destination. This includes vouchers for food and drink, free accommodation if you have to fly the next day, return transport to and from the accommodation and a form of communication (such as reimbursement for the cost of phone calls).
It’s important to check the conditions when booking your flight and to take precautionary measures to ensure that you are covered in case your flight is cancelled or delayed.
So, what can you do if you are worried about a potential cancellation?
One of the best ways to protect your money is to pay with a credit card. If your airline wrongfully denies you a refund you can simply initiate a chargeback. Another method is to take out insurance that covers the failure of an airline. Often, providers can offer up to £2,500 for loss on air tickets and any additional costs incurred.
Note that if you booked your flight, accommodation and leisure vehicle rental separately, the airline will not be responsible for refunding you. This means you may need to take out an independent travel insurance policy.
Many Brits are planning UK staycations in their caravan or motorhome to avoid the hassle of airports and potential cancellations altogether. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing countryside getaway, a beach holiday or a lively city break, there’s plenty to explore across the country this summer.
Image credit: Artur Tumasjan / Unsplash
