Tourists from Europe with more Consumer Rights from July 1

Business Review - The European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union, has announced that as of July 1, travellers booking package holidays will enjoy stronger consumer rights.

The new EU rules enhance the protection for 120 million holidaymakers this summer.

"The new package travel rules are now adapted to the digital age and the new ways of booking holidays. Travellers will also benefit from new rights and be well protected in case the operator goes bankrupt. The new rules will also make it easier for travel businesses to offer their services cross-border," said Vera Jourova, commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality.

Changes for consumers…

Clearer information for travellers: Businesses must inform travellers whether they are offered a package or linked travel arrangement, and on their key rights through standardised information forms. They must provide clear information on the features and characteristics of the package, its price and any additional charges.

Money-back and repatriation in case of bankruptcy: Companies selling package holidays must take out insolvency protection. This guarantee covers refunds and repatriation in case organisers go bankrupt. This guarantee also applies to linked travel arrangements.

Clearer rules on liability: The organiser of the package is liable if something goes wrong, no matter who performs the travel services.

Stronger cancellation rights: With the new rules, travellers may cancel their package holiday for any reason by paying a reasonable fee. They may cancel their holiday, free of charge should their destination become dangerous for example because of war or natural disasters, or if the package price is raised over 8% of the original price.