The Civil Aviation Authority is urging consumers to be “travel savvy” when planning trips by booking Atol-protected holidays and looking out for hidden costs.
It said travel companies are offering “a multitude of offers and deals ahead of what is expected to be one of the busiest weekends of the year for holiday bookings”.
Following the scrapping of pre-departure travel tests to England and the further easing of travel restrictions, many holidaymakers will be looking to book their holidays “but could be overlooking key financial protection”, warned the CAA.
Michael Budge, CAA’s head of Atol, said: “This weekend, typically known as ‘Sunshine Saturday’, is traditionally the busiest time of the year for people booking their holidays, and with travel restrictions easing, many consumers will be taking advantage of bargain deals, but could be missing out on key financial protection.
“If you are booking a package holiday, make sure you check for the Atol logo to ensure you are protected in the unlikely case that your travel company stops trading.”
The CAA also advises travellers to check for hidden costs when booking and to research Covid-19 restrictions in their destination.
Seen travel deals and planning to book a holiday soon?
Ensure you’re making smart decisions when booking your next getaway – book ATOL protected
Find out more about ATOL protection and check to see if your travel company is covered at:https://t.co/Lp4y54ZVdXpic.twitter.com/rjRNh0rtJz
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Furthermore, holidaymakers are urged to look at where the seller is based.
“If it’s abroad and the deal is in a foreign currency, make sure to check how much they are charging in pounds before booking to ensure you get a good rate, and double check your bank’s fees for paying in foreign currency,” said the CAA.
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