The new Regulations for Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements came into force on 1 July 2018, which significantly expands the scope of the existing Package Travel Regulations.
Three important changes have been made in the new regulations:
- Motor vehicle hire is now considered a distinct element
- The definition of a Package has been significantly expanded to include dynamic packaging and when a single company sells two or more elements
- A new form of Package has been introduced called Linked Travel Arrangements, which is formed when two or more elements are purchased for the same trip but there is a clear separation of the booking and selection processes.
Who do the Regulations apply to?
The Regulations apply when there is a linkage between two or more of the following elements:
- Transport
- Accommodation
- Motor vehicle hire
- Other tourism service (this can include anything from tickets to an attraction, a meal in a restaurant, or a round of golf).
Depending on the circumstances, any sale linking two or more of these elements could constitute a Package or a Linked Travel Arrangement. The expansion of the definition of a Package means that a large number of businesses that previously did not consider themselves as selling package travel will now fall under the scope.
The Tourism Alliance has published guidance aimed at providing small businesses with a quick and easy explanation of the new legislation and how it might impact their activities, which can be downloaded here.
It is however advised that businesses consult the full guidance from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, which can be found here.
A copy of the legislation is available here.
