Echo of War - Can Tour Operators Change Prices While Clients Refuse Tours

Against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, changes in travel plans, including price fluctuations, are possible. Therefore, it is important to understand when an operator can change the terms of the contract and what rights travelers have.

PTAC explains that a price increase is permissible only under specific conditions stipulated in the contract and regulations regarding comprehensive tourist services.

A tour operator has the right to raise prices if:

• it is explicitly provided for in the contract,
• the increase is caused by objective external factors (such as rising fuel or energy prices, changes in taxes or exchange rates),
• the operator can justify the need for an additional payment and its calculation.

For a legal price increase, several conditions must be met:

• The contract must specify the right to change the price and the reasons for such changes.
• There must also be a provision for a price reduction if costs decrease (the principle of symmetry).
• The contract must outline the procedure for calculating price changes.

Furthermore, the tour operator is obliged to notify the client of the increase no later than 20 days before the start of the trip, providing written justification and calculations. If this deadline is not met, the consumer has the right to demand the fulfillment of the contract at the previous price or to refuse it with a refund.

If a traveler disagrees with the price increase, they have the right to:

• request justification,
• refuse to pay if calculations are not provided or are unjustified,
• check the notification period (less than 20 days - the increase is illegal).

It is also important to consider the amount of the increase:

• if the price has risen by up to 8% - the usual terms of the contract apply,
• if it has increased by more than 8% - the client has the right to terminate the contract without penalty and receive a full refund.

In case of disagreement, the client must notify the tour operator in writing.

PTAC urges travelers to read the terms of contracts carefully, and tour operators to act transparently and in good faith, maintaining a balance of interests for both parties.