Handy Holiday Hints

 

A guide to your consumer rights and things you should do to protect yourself when on holiday.

 

Going on holiday can be a wonderful experience. It can also be a nightmare. Here are a few hints which may be of some help.

 

 

Before Booking:

  • read the brochure carefully
  • check all the facilities you want are available
  • make sure you know how much you have to pay (look out for supplements)
  • check for any “catches”.

 

 

Before you go:

  • make sure you have the new EHIC - European Health Insurance Card. This has replaced the old E111. Get a form from the Post Office or online at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers
  • check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office wesite - www.fco.gov.uk to see if you need a visa for travel.
  • for holiday insurance shop around the internet or check the 'Which' magazines in your local library
  • if you can, pay at least £100 of your holiday by credit card - however check for charges. You will then have additional protection under the Consumer Credit Act if things go wrong.
  • make yourself aware of how exchange rates work with your credit card or you can be a victim of what is called 'Dynamic Currency Conversion'.  When abroad you may get the choice of which currency you want to pay in. Get advice from your issuing bank.
  • if you plan to attend a holiday or timeshare event, make sure you know what you are getting into and can afford it.

 

 

Take with you:

  • booking form
  • confirmation
  • insurance documents
  • copy of the brochure

 

 

When things go wrong on holiday:

  • notify your rep/holiday company as soon as possible
  • try to get things resolved
  • make your complaint official - put it in writing, time and date it and keep a copy
  • take photographs or video footage highlighting the problem
  • if using film, use a new roll or an unused disposable camera
  • get names and addresses of others who are also suffering
  • keep receipts for any purchases you are forced to make because of your circumstances
  • get local information (for example scale maps if you are disputing the distance that the hotel is from the beach)

 

If you are offered compensation carefully read any document that you are asked to sign - it might be full and final settlement

 

 

 On your return:

  • write to your travel agent/tour operator by Recorded Delivery explaining your problems. Make it clear what recompense you are seeking
  • if you don't get a satisfactory response, you can contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06

 

 

For consumer advice and information contact Consumer Direct online or telephone 08454 04 05 06