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Emergency

Travel warning or force majeure: cancel a package holiday free of charge

If unavoidable, extraordinary circumstances arise at the destination that significantly impair the trip, you can withdraw from a package holiday free of charge. An official travel warning is a strong indicator here, but not strictly necessary. Amounts already paid must be refunded.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

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Your chances of getting your money back

In the case of unavoidable, extraordinary circumstances at the destination that significantly impair the trip, you can withdraw free of charge before the start of the trip (§ 651h BGB). Amounts already paid must be refunded without delay.
What matters is a significant impairment of the trip (e.g. unrest, natural disaster, epidemic). An official travel warning from the Federal Foreign Office is a weighty indicator, but not a strict prerequisite.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the situation at the destination

    Document the extraordinary circumstances (travel warning, reports, official notices) and the significant impairment.

  2. 2

    2. Declare the withdrawal

    Declare the free withdrawal to the operator and justify it with the extraordinary circumstances.

  3. 3

    3. Demand the refund

    Demand the immediate refund of amounts already paid without a cancellation fee.

  4. 4

    4. Prove it in a dispute

    If the operator disputes the circumstances, present evidence (official warnings, situation reports).

How to spot the scam

  • The operator demands a cancellation fee despite a significant danger at the destination.
  • Instead of money, only a voucher is offered.
  • The refund is dragged out over weeks.

Frequently asked questions

When can I withdraw from a package holiday free of charge?

If unavoidable, extraordinary circumstances arise at or near the destination that significantly impair the performance of the trip or the transport (§ 651h BGB), for example unrest, natural disasters or epidemics. Then the cancellation fee is not due.

Do I need an official travel warning?

No, it is not strictly required, but it is a strong indicator. What is decisive is the actual significant impairment of the trip by the extraordinary circumstances. Document the situation well.

Do I get my money back?

Yes. For a justified free withdrawal, amounts already paid must be refunded without delay and without a cancellation fee. A voucher is only permissible with your consent.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

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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.