As families get ready to spend time with their loved ones over the festive period, experts explain what to do if faced with last minute travel disruptions and how to claim compensation.
Christmas is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, but with the UK already having experienced heavy snowfall throughout the country, unpredictable weather can cause long delays, cancellations and frustration for travellers.
To help people navigate these challenges and understand their rights when it comes to travel disturbances, Peter Slater, CEO of disruption management travel company CMAC Group, shares his expert advice.
1. Plan, insure, adapt
Slater advises travellers to plan ahead of time to minimise disruption risk and to be flexible with dates and routes: “Monitor the weather forecast in the lead-up to Christmas and book services with good reliability records. Sometimes rebooking through a less popular hub, or being flexible with travel dates can make all the difference.
“Currently, due to the large amounts of snowfall and flooding we’ve already seen this year, it’s expected that many other modes of transport such as flights and coaches will also face significant disruption too.”
“For extra peace of mind, it’s important to take out travel insurance with coverage for weather-related delays and cancellations. A small investment in insurance can save you significant stress and money during peak travel times.”
2. Know how to handle refunds and rebookings
For those unlucky enough to face delays, Slater emphasises the importance of understanding your options when cancellations occur, saying: “Travel providers usually offer refunds or rebookings for cancelled services, but it’s advised to have a pre-planned backup mode of transport as the alternative arrangements made by companies can fill up fast during the Christmas rush.
“Under EU261 regulations, you may be entitled to compensation if your flight is delayed or cancelled under certain conditions, although the amount will vary based on the length of the delay and the distance of your flight.
“Should the flight be cancelled entirely, the airline is required to provide either a full refund or cover the cost of a replacement flight. If the replacement flight is further delayed by more than two hours, you are entitled to compensation, although the cost you’ll receive can vary significantly.
“If your delay or replacement flight extends overnight, airlines may also need to provide accommodation ahead of your rescheduled flight. Contact your airline provider immediately to see what they can do for you.”
3. Know your rights
Slater advises travellers to familiarise themselves with their rights. “Always read the terms of your booking to know what it covers.. If your flight is delayed for a long timeframe while you’re at the airport, your airline may be required to cover certain costs such as food and drink, so make sure to keep all of your receipts. Airlines will only pay up for reasonable expenses though, so you won’t be reimbursed for more expensive, luxury options.
“If you’ve contacted your travel providers and they can’t help rearrange your travel or offer a refund, you may be able to file a ‘chargeback claim’ with your bank if you paid using a credit card.”