Booking a holiday should be exciting – but do you actually know what protection you have if something goes wrong?
That’s where ATOL protection comes in. You’ve probably seen it mentioned when booking flights or package holidays in the UK, but what does it actually mean and do you really need it?
Let’s break it down.
What Is ATOL Protection and Do I Need It?
ATOL protection is designed to protect your money and your trip but not every package holiday automatically has it.
Before you assume you’re covered, it’s worth understanding exactly what it is and when it applies.
What is ATOL protection?
ATOL stands for Air Travel Organiser’s Licence. It’s a financial protection scheme run by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) that travel companies can choose to sign up to.
What does ATOL protection actually cover?
When you book a package holiday that includes flights with an ATOL-protected travel company, your money is protected if that company goes out of business.
Before your trip
If the company folds before your trip, you’ll get a refund.
During your trip
If it happens while you’re on holiday, ATOL will arrange for you to complete your trip and return home safely.
Are all package holidays ATOL protected?
No, ATOL is something companies decide to sign up to, so it’s not a level of protection that is applied automatically.
Travel companies that have chosen to become ATOL-protected will display the ATOL logo.
What types of holidays are covered by ATOL?
If your travel company has ATOL protection, then this will typically apply to package holidays that include flights, and trips where you’ve booked a flight and hotel together through the same company. It can also cover charter flights booked through UK travel companies.
What it doesn’t cover are independent arrangements – so if you book your flight directly with an airline, or you book a flight and hotel separately with different companies, then it won’t usually apply.
How do I know if my booking is ATOL protected?
When you book an ATOL-protected trip, you should receive an ATOL certificate which confirms exactly what’s covered, who’s responsible for your trip, and what to do if something goes wrong.
You’ll usually see the ATOL logo on a travel company’s website or marketing materials, but you need the certificate to prove you’re covered.
Do I still need travel insurance if I have ATOL protection?
Yes, you should always have travel insurance in place for your trip – ideally from the moment you book because the whole point is that you’re covered for the unexpected.
Travel insurance can cover you for things like medical emergencies, trip cancellations due to personal reasons, lost luggage and delays. Whereas ATOL protection only helps you if your travel company goes out of business.
Do I really need ATOL protection?
Buying an ATOL-protected holiday is recommended, especially if your trip includes a flight (if you’re booking a land-based package or a cruise, those trips are covered in a similar way by another form of protection – ABTA).
ATOL protection just adds that extra layer of security and peace of mind – you know that just in case anything goes wrong, you won’t have to deal with the stress of being stranded or losing the money you’ve paid.
Choosing a Trip With ATOL Protection Can Give You Extra Peace of Mind
ATOL protection is essentially a safety net for when you’re booking a holiday that includes flights. It doesn’t replace travel insurance, it sits alongside it – so if you want a stress-free experience, choosing an ATOL-protected trip makes sense.
