Which? has issued a “red list” of holiday providers which could leave customers out of pocket if they are unable to travel as planned due to coronavirus-related disruption.
Companies that were ‘red listed’ did not provide clear information on their booking policies and while they were not necessarily in breach of consumer law, some have faced investigations by the Competition Markets Authority in the past year over failures to refund their customers. Which? recommended that customers should check the policies for coronavirus-related disruption before booking to avoid being left short-changed.
The watchdog assessed whether companies would refund customers in the event of a lockdown, if Foreign Office advice changes, if customers are forced to quarantine on their return to the UK, or if they are required to self-isolate before travel. British Airways Holidays, First Choice, Hays Travel, Jet2 Holidays, Trailfinders and Tui all committed to refunds in most of these scenarios, earning them a spot on the ‘green list’.
Listed are the 11 red list companies that Which? advises against booking with due to a lack of transparency over their refund policies.
1. Best At Travel
Company rating: red. The company was not upfront about its Covid-19 policies meaning customers may not receive a refund. Photo: Shutterstock
2. Brightsun Travel
Company rating: red. The company was not upfront about its Covid-19 policies meaning customers may not receive a refund. Photo: Shutterstock
3. Broadway Travel
Company rating: red. The company was not upfront about its Covid-19 policies meaning customers may not receive a refund. Photo: Shutterstock
4. Holiday Gems
Company rating: red. The company was not upfront about its Covid-19 policies meaning customers may not receive a refund. Photo: Shutterstock