Holidaymakers Could Lose Thousands Of Pounds Over Track And Trace Scheme

Holidaymakers have been warned they could lose thousands of pounds under the government's new self-isolation rules.

Holiday companies such as Loveholidays and Travel Republic have told Which? they can't guarantee that customers will be able to claim a refund or rebook to another date if they're advised not to travel as a result of the test and trace scheme.

The test and trace programme sees anyone who has spent more than 15 minutes within two metres of someone who has tested positive for Covid-19, asked to self isolate for two weeks.

The problem may arise if you have a holiday booked within this two week period and holidaymakers could be left out of pocket if companies aren't flexible in terms of rebooking or issuing refunds.

It's worth noting that currently, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) is still advising against all but essential travel, but once this restriction is loosened, the test and trace programme will be a vital way of containing the spread of coronavirus.

Expedia and On The Beach told Which? they would try and accommodate customers but again, could not guarantee. Meanwhile Lastminute.com did not respond.

Which? explain most travel insurance policies won't cover the issue, either. So what options do holidaymakers have?

Self isolation is voluntary, so some customers may decide to travel anyway which of course is putting others at risk.

Travellers could also be told to isolate at their holiday destination. The Department of Health and Social Care said Brits could be asked to delay their return if they've been exposed to the virus.

"British Nationals waiting to return home may be eligible for an emergency subsistence loan to cover essential living costs where they have exhausted all other options," they said.

The good news is that some companies are letting customers rebook. BA Holidays, easyJet Holidays, Jet2 Holidays, Riviera Travel, Saga, Tui and Virgin Holidays all confirmed holidaymakers could reschedule.

If you are looking to book a holiday, be sure to check your travel provider's policy thoroughly beforehand.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock

Topics: Life News, News, Coronavirus, travel, Holiday

Lucy Devine

Lucy is a journalist working for Tyla. After graduating with a master's degree in journalism, she has worked in both print and online and is particularly interested in fashion, food, health and women's issues. Northerner, coffee addict, says hun a lot. Get in touch at [email protected].

@lucedevine