Can I reschedule my trip for free if my plans change?
February 6, 2024 | 45,00 EUR | answered by Ralf Schlittmaier
Dear travel lawyer,
My name is Lina Höhne and I have a question regarding my planned trip. Some time ago, I booked a package holiday to Spain, but now my plans have unexpectedly changed. Originally, I was supposed to travel alone, but now I would like to travel with my partner. Unfortunately, it is not possible for me to go on the trip in its current form.
My concern now is that I may not be able to change my trip for free. I have already contacted the travel agency and they have informed me that changing the booking will incur additional costs. Since I did not anticipate this unexpected obstacle, I am worried about how I can change my travel plans without suffering financial losses.
My question to you as an expert in travel law is whether I can change my travel arrangement for free if my plans change. Are there any legal regulations or provisions that could help me in this case? What options do I have to change my trip without paying high fees?
I would be very grateful if you could help me with your expertise and experience on this issue. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Lina Höhne
Dear Mrs. Höhne,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the rebooking of your package holiday to Spain. I understand your concern and am here to help you.
As a traveler, you have the right to cancel or rebook your trip. However, depending on the timing and conditions set by the tour operator, there may be costs involved. In your case, where your plans have unexpectedly changed, you may be able to benefit from certain legal regulations that could help you.
According to § 651j of the German Civil Code, as a traveler, you have the right to cancel or rebook your trip before the start of the journey for a reasonable compensation or cancellation fee. The amount of compensation or fee depends on the timing of the cancellation or rebooking. Generally, the closer the start of the trip approaches, the higher the cancellation fees may be.
In your case, since your plans have unexpectedly changed, you may argue that it is an unforeseen circumstance that justifies a free rebooking. It is important that you stay in contact with the tour operator and explain your situation in detail. They may be lenient and offer you a free rebooking.
If the tour operator still demands additional costs for the rebooking, I recommend you to check the exact contract terms. Often, the rebooking conditions are outlined there. If you want to be legally protected, you could consult a lawyer to examine your rights and potentially take legal action.
In summary, it is generally possible to rebook a trip, but costs may be involved. There are legal regulations that provide protection for you as a traveler, but it is important to check the specific conditions in the contract and negotiate with the tour operator.
I hope this information helps you and wish you success in rebooking your trip. If you have any further questions, I am at your disposal.
Sincerely,
Ralf Schlittmaier, Lawyer specializing in travel law
