What are my rights if I should fall ill during my vacation?
March 11, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Fred Kock
Dear travel lawyer,
My name is Bernd Schröter and I am planning to finally take my long-awaited vacation soon. I have been wondering what rights I would have if I were to fall ill during my stay.
The current situation is as follows: I have booked a package holiday and am looking forward to the relaxation and beautiful experiences at my holiday destination. However, I am worried that I might get sick during my stay and I am wondering what options and rights I would have in such a case.
The current state is that I am already looking forward to my vacation, but I cannot fully relax due to my concern about a possible illness. I am unsure if I can claim any entitlements in case of illness and how I should best proceed in such a situation.
My concerns mainly revolve around the possibility of not being able to enjoy my vacation as planned and suffering financial losses if I had to bear additional costs for doctor consultations, medication, or an early return.
Therefore, my question to you is: What are my rights if I were to fall ill during my vacation? What steps should I take in case of illness and what support can I expect from my tour operator? Are there ways to minimize my expenses in case of illness during the vacation?
Thank you in advance for your response and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Bernd Schröter
Dear Mr. Schröter,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your rights in case of illness during your package holiday. It is understandable that you are concerned, but it is important to know that as a traveler, you are protected in such a situation.
First and foremost, it is important to mention that travelers on a package holiday are protected by travel law. This means that the tour operator is responsible for the proper execution of the trip. If you fall ill during your trip, you have the right to medical care on-site. In most cases, the tour operator will assist you in organizing doctor visits or hospital stays.
If medical treatment is necessary and additional costs arise, you should keep all receipts and invoices carefully, as you can submit them for reimbursement afterwards. In general, the tour operator is obliged to cover the costs incurred for medical care.
If your illness is so severe that an early return is necessary, you also have the right to assistance from the tour operator. This may include organizing a return flight as well as reimbursement for missed travel services.
In case of illness during the trip, it is advisable to inform the tour operator immediately and take all necessary steps in consultation with them. I also recommend that you familiarize yourself with your rights and the services of your tour operator before starting your trip, to be well prepared in case of an emergency.
Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of staying calm in case of illness during your package holiday and relying on the support of your tour operator. Your rights as a traveler are legally guaranteed to ensure that you can enjoy your vacation despite unforeseen events.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you and wish you a pleasant and, above all, healthy holiday.
Sincerely,
Fred Kock
