Package Travel: Definition and Rights for Residents of Delft
As a Delft resident, you often book a package travel arrangement, such as a combination of transport and accommodation through one provider for your vacation. Under the Civil Code, consumers enjoy strong protection. Learn when your trip qualifies as package travel and what rights you have, with support from local services like the Juridisch Loket Delft.
Legal Definition of Package Travel
Since 1 July 2018, Book 7, Title 3A of the Civil Code (BW), particularly Article 7:481(1) BW, defines package travel. This implements the European Package Travel Directive (EU 2015/2302) to enhance consumer rights. Package travel includes at least two different tourist services for the same trip, lasting longer than 24 hours or including an overnight stay. Requirements:
- Sold at a single total price.
- Booked with one travel organiser, for example via a single platform.
- Duration of at least 24 hours or including an overnight stay.
Services such as transport, hotel accommodation (not business-related) or tickets (if >25% of the price) qualify. For disputes in the region, contact the District Court of The Hague.
Examples of Tourist Services
Article 7:481(2) BW lists these services:
- Passenger transport: flight, train from Delft, bus or boat.
- Accommodation: hotel room, apartment, cruise ship or private campsite.
- Car rental: car or motorbike for a maximum of 1 month.
- Other services: excursions or dinners, provided they account for ≥25% of the total price and are significant.
Example: Train from Delft Centraal plus hotel in Paris = package travel; price ratio irrelevant.
Practical Examples for Delft Residents
Consider a weekend getaway:
- Package travel: TUI flight from Rotterdam The Hague Airport and hotel in Greece for €1,100 – two services, one price.
- Borderline case: Hotel via Booking.com and KLM flight on the same site; a single invoice may qualify it as package travel.
- Not package travel: Separate Ryanair flight and Airbnb hotel, paid individually – limited protection.
A train city trip to Antwerp with overnight stay is package travel. Cruises often bundle everything.
Package Travel vs. Individual Bookings
This distinction determines your protections. Comparison:
| Feature | Package Travel | Individual Bookings |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | ≥2 services, one price, one organiser | Each service separate |
| Protection | Full package travel rules, SGR coverage | Consumer rights per service |
| Price certainty | Limited adjustments | Separate terms |
| Example | Train + hotel via NS International from Delft | easyJet flight, room via Booking |
Your Rights as a Package Travel Booker in Delft
Consumer Rights
Under the Package Travel Directive:
- Information duty: Clear pre-contract details (Art. 7:484 BW).
- Price stability: Adjustments limited to 8% for unforeseen circumstances (Art. 7:500 BW).
- Cancellation: Free for significant issues; pro rata refund after commencement.
- Liability: Organiser liable for the entire trip (Art. 7:514 BW).
- SGR guarantee: Insolvency protection.
Obligations of the Organiser
Provide accurate information, safety and proper performance. For shortcomings: remedy or discount (Arts. 7:508-510 BW). Seek advice from the Juridisch Loket Delft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a last-minute deal from Delft package travel?
Not necessarily; yes if ≥2 services via one party, such as flight + hotel from Rotterdam Airport.
Booking via a travel agency in Delft?
Yes, one contract = package travel with full rights.
Does car rental count in my package travel?
Yes, transport + car rental = package travel services.
Rights during travel restrictions like corona?
Full refund or voucher within 14 days (Art. 7:503 BW).
Tips for Delft Residents
Avoid hassle:
- Read the travel conditions thoroughly.
- Choose SGR/ANVR members. For help: Juridisch Loket Delft or Municipality of Delft for information. Disputes? District Court of The Hague.