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Emergency

Trip change before departure: price increase and program change

Before departure a tour operator may raise the price only under strict conditions, and it must notify you of essential changes to the travel contract. In the case of a significant price increase or change of services, you have the right to withdraw free of charge or to demand an equivalent replacement trip.

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Your chances of getting your money back

A price increase is only permissible up to 20 days before the start of the trip and only for certain reasons (e.g. increased transport costs) and must be clearly justified (§ 651f BGB). If it exceeds 8% of the travel price, you can decline it.
In the case of a significant change to essential travel services or a price increase over 8%, you can withdraw free of charge or demand an equivalent replacement trip. If the travel value drops, a reduction may also be considered.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the change

    What is it about, a price increase or a change of services? Check the timing, amount and justification.

  2. 2

    2. Note the deadline and limit

    Price increases are only permissible up to 20 days beforehand and for certain reasons; over 8% you may decline.

  3. 3

    3. Make a choice

    For a significant change: free withdrawal or an equivalent replacement trip. Communicate your decision within the deadline.

  4. 4

    4. Secure the refund

    If you withdraw, demand the refund of amounts already paid without a cancellation fee.

How to spot the scam

  • A price increase comes at short notice and without a comprehensible justification.
  • Essential services (hotel category, dates) are unilaterally worsened.
  • Instead of a refund, a cancellation fee is demanded upon withdrawal.

Frequently asked questions

May the operator raise the price before the trip?

Only under strict conditions: at the latest 20 days before the start of the trip, for certain reasons (such as increased transport or tax costs) and with a clear justification (§ 651f BGB). An arbitrary increase is not permissible.

From when can I withdraw free of charge?

For a price increase over 8% of the travel price or a significant change to essential travel services. Then you can withdraw free of charge or accept an offered equivalent replacement trip.

Do I get my money back if I withdraw?

Yes. If you withdraw because of a significant change or a permissible rejection of the price increase, amounts already paid must be refunded without a cancellation fee.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.