More routes to getting holiday compensation

Small claims court and Section 75 refunds

Small claims court

This is a relatively low-cost procedure (between about £50 and £400, depending on the size of the claim), which operates in the county courts of England and Wales, and is designed to help you follow up a claim without having to pay for a solicitor. You will have the chance to put your own case in front of a judge. Full details are on the Courts Service website (www.hmcourts-service.gov.uk), but it is also a good idea to take advice before using it e.g. from your local Citizens Advice Bureau.

See our guide on taking a dispute to the small claims court for more information.

Section 75 refund

If you paid for your package holiday with a credit card then under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 your credit card provider is equally as liable as the tour operator to give you a refund.

To qualify for Section 75 the cost of the holiday must have been between £100 and £30,000 and paid for in full or partly with a Visa or MasterCard credit card. Charge cards and debit cards do not qualify.

See our guide on how to make a Section 75 claim for full details.

Claims Financial