05/03/2026
✈️ Planning a holiday? Protect yourself before you book.
A few simple steps now can save a lot of stress later.
📌 Keep copies of everything
Save screenshots or photos of the original advert, price and description at the time you booked. Keep booking confirmations, receipts and any emails from the travel company. These are essential if something changes or you need to challenge what was advertised.
💳 Pay by credit card where possible
Paying even part of your holiday on a credit card can give you extra protection under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. If the company goes bust or the service isn’t provided, you may be able to claim your money back through your card provider.
🛂 Check your passport early
Passport renewals can take several weeks. Check the entry requirements for your destination on GOV.UK to make sure your passport is valid for the whole trip.
For EU travel, remember: EU countries won’t accept passports over 10 years old, even if the printed expiry date is later. If your passport was issued more than 10 years ago, renew it before you travel.
🌐 Check FCDO travel advice before booking — and again before you go
Before paying any deposit, look at the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice for your destination. It covers safety risks, entry rules, health information and any warnings against travel.
Advice can change quickly, so check again just before you travel.
📄 Make sure your insurance covers FCDO related cancellations
Most travel insurance policies won’t cover you if you travel against FCDO advice. If the FCDO later advises against travel to your destination, you may only be covered for cancellation if your policy includes this specific protection.
Read the policy wording carefully and make sure you’re covered for:
• cancellation if the FCDO advises against travel
• delays or disruption outside your control
• medical treatment abroad, including repatriation
🛡️ Get travel insurance as soon as you book
Travel insurance can cover delays, cancellations, lost luggage and medical emergencies. Citizens Advice recommends arranging insurance at the time you book so you’re covered straight away.
Check whether you already have cover through an existing policy or bank account to avoid paying twice.
🧳 Know your rights if things go wrong
If your flight is delayed long enough (usually 2–4 hours depending on distance), airlines must provide food and drink vouchers, communication access, and accommodation if you’re delayed overnight.
If your flight is cancelled, you’re entitled to a full refund or a replacement flight.
You may also be entitled to compensation if your checked luggage is delayed, lost or damaged.
📱 Keep important documents accessible
Store digital copies of your passport, insurance policy, booking details and emergency contacts on your phone — and email them to yourself in case your device is lost.
🌍 Book with reputable companies
Check reviews, look for ATOL/ABTA protection, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Avoid paying by bank transfer unless you’re confident the business is legitimate.
🧠 A little planning goes a long way
Most holidays go smoothly, but taking these steps helps protect your money and your peace of mind.
If you need free, confidential consumer advice, visit the Citizens Advice website https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
Merthyr Tydfil CBC
Online free advice from Citizens Advice to help you find a way forward, whatever the problem. Our research enables us to campaign on issues affecting people's lives.
