Sometimes an unexpected event happens that causes travel plans to be changed or cancelled altogether. These events can include natural disasters and weather conditions. Below are some options that both travelers and BC licensed travel agents may wish to consider when voluntarily cancelling travel plans.

1. Look Into Your Options: When you make travel plans you create a contract with terms & conditions that will impact your options. Airlines, wholesalers and other suppliers may offer options for re-booking. While you may not receive the travel services on the desired date; you may be able to rebook travel services on another date, or receive a refund. Contact your travel service provider to find out their policy on voluntary cancellations. Be aware that in some cases, you may be required to pay the difference between the original booking and the new booking.
2. Confirm Your Cancellation Rights: Find out about the details of the cancellation policy in your travel contract.  While you may remember to check the cancellation information around your flights, don’t forget to contact your accommodation provider and any tours you may have booked to find out your cancellation rights and responsibilities.
3. Contact Your Travel Agent: If you booked with a travel agent, contact your booking agent for assistance. They will be able to help you with your options for re-booking.
4. Check With your Credit Card Provider: If you paid by credit card, check with your credit card company to see what coverage you may have.
5. Confirm With Your Insurance Company: If you purchased travel insurance, contact the insurance company to find out their policy on voluntary cancellation.

Consumer Protection BC is responsible for British Columbia’s Travel Assurance Fund (TAF).  The TAF is a possible source of compensation for consumers who purchased travel services through a BC licensed travel agent and travel services are not provided. The TAF is a fund of last resort and consumers must first try to obtain refunds through their travel insurance or credit card provider.

Please note that the TAF does not cover the following:

• The cost of alternate travel services.
• Circumstances where the travel service provider has offered alternate travel options.
• The occurrence of natural disasters, pandemics or bad weather, or other circumstances beyond the control of the travel supplier.

To find out more about the TAF please visit www.travelrightsbc.ca.

Consumer Protection BC is a not-for-profit corporation that was created to strengthen consumer protection in BC and enforce consumer protection laws. We balance the interests of all parties to promote a marketplace that is fair for both BC consumers and BC businesses. We license and inspect specific industries, respond to inquiries through our Inquiry Centre, investigate alleged violations of consumer protection laws, and educate consumers and businesses about their rights and responsibilities under the law.  For more information about our organization, please visit our corporate website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca.

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