Booking a holiday with a tour operator who is a member of Protected Trust Services (PTS) or a similar organisation offers several advantages, but there are also some considerations to keep in mind. Here’s a breakdown:
Pros of Booking with a PTS Member
- Financial Protection: PTS members use trust accounts to safeguard your money. This means your funds are protected until your holiday is completed, giving you peace of mind2.
- Compliance with Regulations: PTS members comply with the Package Travel Regulations (PTR), ensuring that your booking meets legal standards for consumer protection.
- Transparency: PTS provides real-time tracking of your payments, so you know exactly where your money is and how it’s being used.
- ATOL Protection: If your package includes flights, PTS members often provide ATOL protection, which covers you in case of airline failure.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Booking with a PTS member ensures that all elements of your package (e.g., travel, accommodation, activities) are covered under one umbrella, reducing the risk of gaps in protection.
Cons of Booking with a PTS Member
- Cost: PTS members may charge slightly higher prices to cover the costs of trust accounts and compliance with regulations.
- Limited Options: Not all tour operators are PTS members, so your choices might be more limited if you prioritize booking with a PTS-affiliated operator.
Risks of Booking with Non-PTS Operators
If you book with a tour operator that is not a member of PTS or a similar organization, there are potential risks:
- Lack of Financial Protection: Your money may not be safeguarded in a trust account, leaving you vulnerable if the operator goes out of business.
- No ATOL Coverage: If your package includes flights, you may not be covered under the ATOL scheme, which could leave you stranded in case of airline failure.
- Gaps in Protection: If you book multiple elements (e.g., travel, accommodation, activities) separately or with a non-compliant operator, you may not be covered under the Package Travel Regulations.
Legal Requirements for Tour Operators
Under the Package Travel Regulations, any operator selling a package holiday (defined as a combination of at least two elements, such as travel and accommodation, sold at an inclusive price) must provide financial protection. This is often achieved through membership in organizations like PTS or by holding an ATOL license.
If you’re considering booking with a non-PTS operator, it’s essential to:
- Check their financial protection measures.
- Ensure they comply with the Package Travel Regulations.
- Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance for additional peace of mind.
The good news is that Saltire Executive Travel is a PTS member and operator, so you can book your next tour or trip with us in complete confidence.
