14 May 2007 Holidaymakers 'at risk' with DIY trips
British holidaymakers planning a DIY trip abroad this summer have been warned that they could be at risk of losing money should any of the companies they book their holiday with become insolvent.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) reports that 35 per cent of Britons who arrange their own DIY break wrongly believe they are protected against the risk of their airline, car hire firm or hotel becoming insolvent.
Warning that these holidaymakers could be forced to purchase expensive replacement flights or services, the authority recommends that those planning DIY breaks make use of its Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (Atol) scheme.
David Clover, a spokesman for Atol, said: "Those building their own holidays using different suppliers should be aware that they will not be protected against the risks of insolvency in the same way as booking all elements with one travel company."
He added that holidays remain a significant purchase for UK households and urged consumers to make informed choices about financial protection for their trips.
Last month, consumer publication Which? advised holidaymakers to check the small print of any travel insurance policy they purchase to ensure they are adequately protected before heading abroad.
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