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Yes, if it was booked and sold as a package

Am I eligible for a refund if my package holiday was cancelled?

By Emma Walsh Updated 8 July 2026 4 min read
Quick Answer

If a UK-based tour operator cancels your package holiday, or significantly changes a core element — destination, accommodation standard, price, or flights — the Package Travel Regulations give you a full refund or a suitable alternative, plus compensation in some cases. The steps below show what to claim and when.

Legal basis: The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018.

You likely ARE eligible if…

  • You booked a package — flight plus accommodation (or car hire, etc.) sold or arranged together by one UK-based organiser
  • The organiser cancelled the package, or made a significant change to a core element
  • You have not already accepted a substitute holiday of equivalent or higher quality

You likely are NOT eligible if…

  • You booked the flight and hotel completely separately, with no link between the two bookings (this falls under UK261 for the flight only, not the Package Travel Regulations)
  • The change was minor — a comparable room in the same hotel, or a small time shift
  • You cancelled the trip yourself for a reason not covered by the operator's cancellation terms

What you're owed

  • A full refund of all sums paid, within 14 days of cancellation
  • Or, if you prefer, a suitable substitute package of equivalent or higher quality at no extra cost
  • ATOL or ABTA protection if the operator becomes insolvent before you are refunded

If you believe you're eligible, use our free Package Travel Regulations Refund Request Letter to make your claim.

Read the full guide on this topic →

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a "significant" change?

There is no single fixed test, but examples widely accepted as significant include a materially lower standard of accommodation, a substantially different destination, a price increase beyond what the operator is allowed to pass on without your agreement, or a large shift in departure or return times.

What if the operator has gone out of business?

ATOL-protected packages are covered by the Air Travel Trust — you should get your money back, or be repatriated if you are already travelling. Check for the ATOL or ABTA logo on your booking confirmation.

This page sets out the general legal position and is not legal advice. Individual claims can turn on facts not covered here — FlightLogic does not guarantee any outcome.

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