On 28 October 2026 the government published updated guidance for businesses on the package travel rules (Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018). It reflects the changes made by the 2026 amending regulations.
The most important change: so-called Type A linked travel arrangements (LTA Type A) become packages. This covers situations where a business lets you separately select and pay for, say, a flight and a hotel for the same trip at a single point of sale, during a single visit or contact. Such bookings will be subject to the same rules as other packages.
Type B LTAs, on the other hand, disappear – where after the first booking a business directed the customer to another trader and the contract was concluded within 24 hours. Such situations will no longer be covered by these regulations.
Organisers and retailers also gain new rights against suppliers. If a hotel or carrier fails to provide a service, the travel firm can demand a refund within 14 days. It can also seek redress from the supplier for amounts it had to pay the traveller as compensation.
The changes come into force on 6 April 2027. They do not apply to contracts made before that date.
What it means for you
For travellers: more bookings made “in one place” will carry package protection, including security in case the organiser becomes insolvent. For Polish travel agencies and agents in the UK: from April 2027 some combinations sold today will become packages. Package rules will have to be applied, including financial protection. The guidance points out that ATOL does not cover services added to a flight in such a combination – they need separate protection.
Our assessment
This is a good change for customers, because the line between a package and “loose” bookings was unclear to many. For small agencies it means extra obligations and costs. There is plenty of time to prepare, but it is worth starting now, because contracts with suppliers and insurance will need to change.
What to do
- If you run a travel agency or sell accommodation with transport, read the government guidance on GOV.UK.
- Check which of your products will become packages from 6 April 2027, and keep records of the dates contracts are made.
- Talk to your insurer or adviser about insolvency protection. Confirm the details of your own case with a lawyer.
Source: GOV.UK – Package holidays: complying with regulations (28.10.2026).
We assess factual corrections and substantive responses. Verified changes are reflected in our reporting.
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