The European Parliament approved revised rules on package travel on March 12, 2026, with 537 votes in favor, 2 against, and 24 abstentions. The updated directive, provisionally agreed with EU member states, draws lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and high-profile travel company bankruptcies to bolster consumer safeguards.
A clearer definition identifies travel packages based on booking timing and processes. Combinations qualify if booked within 24 hours via linked online processes where the first trader shares traveler data with others. This applies to services from separate providers concluded in one contract.
Travelers can now cancel without penalties for extraordinary circumstances at departure points or en route, extending prior rules limited to destinations. Assessments occur case-by-case, with official advisories as potential evidence. Examples include military conflicts, natural disasters, or epidemics significantly impacting trips.
Voucher rules mandate voluntary acceptance; consumers may refuse and request refunds within 14 days. Vouchers last up to 12 months, with refunds for unused portions upon expiry. Providers cannot restrict service choices for voucher holders.
Complaint handling requires acknowledgment within 7 days and reasoned responses within 60 days. Insolvency protections ensure refunds within 6 months (9 for complex cases). The standard 14-day cancellation refund deadline persists.
Rapporteur Alex Agius Saliba (S&D, MT) stated: “These updated rules will protect consumers when something goes wrong with their package holiday. In the case of extraordinary circumstances that affect any part of their trip, travellers will be able to cancel with a full refund. The acceptance of vouchers by consumers will remain voluntary, and they can request their money back instead. Travel companies will have the obligation to respond to complaints within 60 days and robust insolvency protection will ensure that when a bankruptcy occurs the financial loss is not shifted on families.”
The Council will formally adopt the directive, followed by publication in the Official Journal. Member states have 28 months to transpose it into national law and 6 more months for application.