Strict rules govern surcharges: the increase must be linked to specific costs such as destination taxes, currency fluctuations, or fuel price rises, and must be charged no later than 20 days before departure. If the increase exceeds 8%, travellers have the right to cancel for free. Travellers are also entitled to a price reduction if relevant costs decrease.
Several companies have committed to not imposing surcharges, including Trailfinders, Destination2, Kuoni, Jet2holidays, Olympic Holidays, Beachcomber Tours, On The Beach, BA Holidays, Loveholidays, EasyJet, and Lastminute.com. However, Lastminute.com said it could not guarantee that airlines would not add extra costs. TUI and Booking.com have not yet responded to requests for comment.
Fuel prices have been rising due to the Middle East conflict, which could trigger surcharges. It remains unclear whether TUI and Booking.com will impose surcharges, if fuel prices will continue rising, how many bookings could be affected, and whether airlines will add extra costs.