Canceling a trip: how high may the cancellation fees be?
You have to cancel a booked package tour and the operator demands high cancellation fees? You may withdraw at any time, but the compensation must be reasonable. And in certain cases the cancellation is even free.
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Check the cancellation costs →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Check the cancellation scale
The travel contract or terms contain a cancellation scale (the closer to the departure day, the higher). Very blanket, inflated rates are open to challenge.
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2. Deduct saved expenses
The operator must credit what he saves through your withdrawal and earns otherwise. Demand an understandable calculation.
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3. Check for extraordinary circumstances
If there is a travel warning at the destination due to extraordinary circumstances, the cancellation can be free of charge.
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4. Trip cancellation insurance
In case of illness or similar, trip cancellation insurance can cover the cancellation costs; submit the proof.
Frequently asked questions
May the operator demand any cancellation fee at all?
No. The compensation must be reasonable and based on the actually saved expenses and other income (§ 651h BGB). You can challenge blanket, inflated rates and demand an understandable calculation.
When can I cancel free of charge?
If unavoidable, extraordinary circumstances occur at the destination or in its immediate vicinity that significantly impair the trip (for example a natural disaster). Then the cancellation fee does not apply.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
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.