Package holidays: law and travel defects

In short: Anyone booking a package holiday (at least two travel services such as flight and hotel from one source) has strong rights: for defects they can reduce the price and demand remedy.

In more detail: The tour operator is liable for the whole trip. In case of insolvency the insolvency protection certificate secures you.

In detail

• Report defects: Immediately on site to the tour guide or operator and set a deadline for remedy.
• Evidence: Photos, videos, witnesses, written report.
• Price reduction: Retroactive reduction depending on severity and duration of the defect.
• Termination: For serious defects the traveller can terminate the contract.
• Damages: For a spoiled holiday compensation may be considered.
• Deadlines: Assert claims within two years; reporting defects on site is mandatory.
• Price increase and withdrawal: Operators may raise prices only to a limited extent; travellers can withdraw under conditions (reiseversicherungen-ueberblick).