With spring here, you may start to think about your next getaway.
The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection provides tips for planning for travel.
Consumers should be informed of their rights, shop smartly and stay vigilant to protect themselves from scams.
“This is a time of year when many New Yorkers, myself included, are eager to get away and escape what feels like a never-ending winter season. But before booking that getaway, I encourage consumers to read these tips from the Division of Consumer Protection,” Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said in a press release.
“Taking the time to do your research, understand your rights and stay alert to potential scams can save your wallet, your time and prevent unnecessary stress during what is supposed to be a relaxing vacation.”
SHOPPING SMART FOR TRAVEL
Basic travel tips to know when booking:
— Book early morning tickets: Morning flights are significantly less likely to be delayed or canceled, and you’ll have more options for getting to your destination on time.
— Consider traveling to a larger airport: Larger airports offer more direct flights than regional ones. Direct flights avoid missed connections and cancellations.
— Do your research: Review trip options before purchases, including price, location, availability of activities and cancellation policies.
— Get all confirmations in writing: Get confirmation of travel plans in writing, whether booking online, over the phone or in person. Retailers must disclose terms and conditions to consumers. Always ask for a copy of the agreement and save it for reference.
— Beware of “all-inclusive” or “too-good-to-be-true” offers: All-inclusive offers may have hidden charges and fees. Inquire about mandatory fees that may not appear in the advertised price, such as resort fees and taxes. Read the fine print when taking advantage of an all-inclusive offer. Deep discounts or too-good-to-be-true offers may come with an agreement to join a membership or participate in a presentation.
— Try to pay with a credit card: Credit cards often offer more protection than cash, checks or debit cards. Some also offer perks like trip insurance, a concierge service or additional protection if the trip is cancelled. Check with your credit card company on the conditions of travel expenditure reimbursement.
— Review travel agreements: Consumers are able to cancel any travel agreement during the five-day period prior to receiving travel disclosures and until midnight of the third business day after receiving a travel agreement. The New York State Truth in Travel Act requires travel agents and promoters to provide written disclosures of all terms of travel within five days of purchase or agreement. Review the terms of the agreement fully and ensure it aligns with what you purchased.
— Use reputable travel agents and tour companies: Research thoroughly before choosing an agent or company. Keep track of arrangements and contracts and review all terms and conditions, especially cancellation and refund policies. Reservations often require a non-refundable deposit. If the trip is cancelled, the deposit might only be applied toward future travel or forfeited altogether.
— Consider trip insurance: Travel insurance can offer relief in case of emergency, and coverage may range from lost baggage to missed connections to medical emergencies. Some plans may even offer “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage at an additional cost. Review the cost and terms of the policy and ask about coverage that may be excluded.
TRIP CANCELLATION
When all or part of a trip is cancelled, the cancellation policy and a consumer’s right to a refund may vary based on industry laws.
— Airlines: According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, if an airline cancels, significantly delays or changes a flight, you’re entitled to a refund. If you cancel a reservation, the right to a refund depends on the policy agreed to at the time of purchase and the terms of any travel insurance coverage.
— Cruise lines: Refund options vary by cruise line. The ticket contract lays out the company’s cancellation policies and consumer’s rights. For example, you may be offered a refund, credit or voucher for a future cruise. If opting for a credit or voucher, ensure the expiration date is far enough out that you can use it.
— Lodging: Cancellation policies for hotels, motels and online accommodation marketplaces can vary based on season, room type or length of stay. Some may offer a choice between a refundable or non-refundable rate while making the reservation. Be sure to understand the applicable terms and cancellation policy prior to making a reservation.
If a consumer is having trouble getting a refund owed for an interrupted or cancelled trip, file a complaint with the DCP at dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.