{"id":36113,"date":"2025-09-23T11:25:18","date_gmt":"2025-09-23T11:25:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/?p=36113"},"modified":"2025-09-23T11:26:24","modified_gmt":"2025-09-23T11:26:24","slug":"what-is-atol-protection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/2025\/09\/what-is-atol-protection\/","title":{"rendered":"What is ATOL Protection?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW109806357 BCX0\">At Blue Bay Travel, we believe in providing <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW109806357 BCX0\">travellers<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW109806357 BCX0\"> with unforgettable holidays backed by our world-class experience and a commitment to ensuring your trip runs as smoothly as possible. When you spend your hard-earned money on your dream holiday, you want to be sure your money is protected. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW109806357 BCX0\">That\u2019s<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW109806357 BCX0\"> where ATOL comes in. All UK travel companies <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW109806357 BCX0\">are required to<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW109806357 BCX0\"> hold an ATOL to ensure customers are protected. But what is ATOL protection? What does it cover? And why do you need it?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-912322946.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-912322946.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-36127\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-912322946.jpg 800w, https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-912322946-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-912322946-768x384.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_56_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\" role=\"button\"><label for=\"item-69e65af1db288\" ><span class=\"\"><span style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input aria-label=\"Toggle\" aria-label=\"item-69e65af1db288\"  type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item-69e65af1db288\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/2025\/09\/what-is-atol-protection\/#What_is_ATOL_protection\" title=\"What is ATOL protection?\u00a0\">What is ATOL protection?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/2025\/09\/what-is-atol-protection\/#Do_I_need_ATOL_protection\" title=\"Do I need ATOL protection?\u00a0\">Do I need ATOL protection?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/2025\/09\/what-is-atol-protection\/#What_does_ATOL_Protection_cover\" title=\"What does ATOL Protection cover?\u00a0\">What does ATOL Protection cover?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/2025\/09\/what-is-atol-protection\/#ATOL_protection_vs_travel_insurance_Whats_the_difference\" title=\"ATOL protection vs travel insurance: What\u2019s the difference?\">ATOL protection vs travel insurance: What\u2019s the difference?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/2025\/09\/what-is-atol-protection\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\u00a0\">Conclusion\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_ATOL_protection\"><\/span><strong>What is ATOL protection?<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">ATOL stands for Air Travel <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW179637801 BCX0\">Organiser\u2019s<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW179637801 BCX0\">Licence<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">. The purpose of ATOL protection is to keep your money safe in the unlikely event of a holiday company collapsing. If the company <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">you\u2019ve<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW179637801 BCX0\">paid<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\"> is unable to make the required payments for your holiday package, your money will still be safe. If <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">you\u2019re<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\"> still in the UK, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">you\u2019ll<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\"> receive a full refund, and if <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">you\u2019re<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\"> in the middle of your trip, ATOL will do everything it can to ensure you can finish your holiday as planned and return home without any interruptions. ATOL is run by the UK Civil Avia<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">tion Authority, a government body that ensures the aviation industry meets <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">high standards<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\"> of safety, consumer choice and protection, and fair treatment. When you book with Blue Bay Travel, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">you\u2019ll<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\"> receive an ATOL Certificate as soon as you make your first deposit. This document will tell you who is providing the ATOL protection for each part of your trip, as well as a unique reference number <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">you\u2019ll<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\"> need in the event you need to make a claim. Consider printing out a copy of your ATOL certificate, to ensure yo<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179637801 BCX0\">u have it ready to hand during your trip.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW179637801 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_need_ATOL_protection\"><\/span><strong>Do I need ATOL protection?<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/atol-protection\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">ATOL protection<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is a legal requirement for any travel organiser selling to customers in the UK. It\u2019s a necessity any time you\u2019re booking a package holiday that includes an airline ticket. It ensures your money ends up either with the airline and hotel included in the package deal, or back in your hands. In 2024, travellers lost over \u00a311 million to holiday fraud, with over 6000 reports made to Action Fraud. On average, victims lost just over \u00a31,800. To ensure your pounds are protected, the best thing to do when booking your holiday is to double-check that the company you\u2019re booking with offers ATOL protection. Every Blue Bay Travel holiday that includes flights comes with ATOL protection as we only book with certified ATOL-protected suppliers. We believe in finding you the best price, but never at the cost of your financial security. We recommend that when you receive your ATOL certificate, you check that every aspect of your booking (flights, transfers, accommodation etc.) is covered. You can search the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.caa.co.uk\/atol-protection\/check-an-atol\/search-atol-holders\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">ATOL Database<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to ensure the company listed as the ATOL holder is maintaining its ATOL protection.\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1497396873.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1497396873.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-35248\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1497396873.jpg 800w, https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1497396873-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1497396873-768x384.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_ATOL_Protection_cover\"><\/span><strong>What does ATOL Protection cover?<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ATOL protection covers the money you\u2019ve paid to a travel company for any holiday package that includes a flight. Holiday packages that do not include flights are not covered by the ATOL scheme. If you need to make an ATOL claim, you\u2019ll receive the assistance you need to stay in your accommodation if possible, as well as reimbursements for money you need to spend to replace parts of your trip such as accommodation or transfers that are ATOL protected. If any protected part of your trip that should have been paid for asks you to pay again, you can claim that too. They\u2019ll also help you arrange flights home if necessary. ATOL protection means you can make payments with confidence, knowing that if anything happens to the company handling your money, you\u2019ll still either get the holiday you paid for, or your money back. It also protects you if you have an outstanding refund from a cancellation made prior to the company ceasing to trade as an ATOL holder.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ATOL makes the process of claiming as simple as possible, usually offering a few different options, depending on whether you want to try and continue your holiday or receive a refund. If you\u2019ve made your payments by credit card, you can often reclaim your money by simply filing a claim with your bank using supporting documentation from ATOL. Otherwise, you can use the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.atol.org\/claims\/i-want-to-make-a-claim\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">ATOL website<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to make a claim using your ATOL certificate, booking confirmation, passport, ticket details and bank statements. Once submitted, your claim should be reviewed within 28 working days. After a company ceases trading as an ATOL holder, there\u2019s usually a 12-month window during which customers can make a claim.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1638299318.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1638299318.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-36129\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1638299318.jpg 800w, https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1638299318-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1638299318-768x384.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ATOL_protection_vs_travel_insurance_Whats_the_difference\"><\/span><strong>ATOL protection vs travel insurance: What\u2019s the difference?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\">ATOL protection should not be confused with travel insurance. ATOL insures you specifically against <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\">financial loss<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\"> due to a travel <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW79529245 BCX0\">organiser<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\"> you booked with <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\">encountering<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\"> financial difficulties and ceasing to trade. It does not cover other reasons for delays or cancellations. When you book your holiday, you should also take out your own separate travel insurance to cover things like lost luggage, medical <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\">emergencies<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\"> and last-minute cancellations due to weather or sickness. ATOL protection does not cover cancelled, delayed or missed flights, general disputes with travel companies or <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW79529245 BCX0\">accommodations<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\">-only bookings. For <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\">additional<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\"> protection<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\">, Blue Bay Travel is also a proud ABTA member. ABTA\u2019s code of conduct holds travel agents to a high standard, ensuring transparency and fairness for consumers while offering reassurance and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\">assistance<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW79529245 BCX0\"> if any queries or issues arise.\u202f<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW79529245 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1195971216.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1195971216.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-36131\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1195971216.jpg 800w, https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1195971216-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/iStock-1195971216-768x384.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\">At Blue Bay Travel, we take our responsibilities to you seriously. Whether <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\">you\u2019re<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\"> booking a once-in-a-lifetime trip or your yearly getaway, know that your money is safe with us. We certainly <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\">don\u2019t<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\"> plan <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\">on going<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\"> anywhere, but you deserve <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW254379749 BCX0\">the peace<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\"> of mind knowing your money is protected either way. From over-water villas in the Maldives to sun-soaked balconies in the Caribbean, our holidays offer rejuvenation and relaxation, from the moment you book to the flight back home. Browse our ATOL-protected and ABTA<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\">-informed <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW254379749 BCX0\" href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/offers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW254379749 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">package deals<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW254379749 BCX0\"> or give one of our expert agents a call and book your next holiday with Blue Bay Travel.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW254379749 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/bluebaytravel.co.uk\/blog\/2025\/09\/when-to-book-travel-insurance\/\">When to Book Travel Insurance >><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>At Blue Bay Travel, we believe in providing travellers with unforgettable holidays backed by our world-class experience and a commitment to ensuring your trip runs as smoothly as possible. When you spend your hard-earned money on your dream holiday, you want to be sure your money is protected. That\u2019s where ATOL comes in. All UK travel companies are required to hold an ATOL to ensure customers are protected. But what is ATOL protection? What does it cover? And why do you need it? What is ATOL protection?\u00a0 ATOL stands for Air Travel Organiser\u2019s Licence. The purpose of ATOL protection is to keep your money safe in the unlikely event of a holiday company collapsing. If the company you\u2019ve paid is unable to make the required payments for your holiday package, your money will still be safe. If you\u2019re still in the UK, you\u2019ll receive a full refund, and if you\u2019re in the middle of your trip, ATOL will do everything it can to ensure you can finish your holiday as planned and return home without any interruptions. ATOL is run by the UK Civil Aviation Authority, a government body that ensures the aviation industry meets high standards of safety, consumer choice and protection, and fair treatment. When you book with Blue Bay Travel, you\u2019ll receive an ATOL Certificate as soon as you make your first deposit. This document will tell you who is providing the ATOL protection for each part of your trip, as well as a unique reference number you\u2019ll need in the event you need to make a claim. Consider printing out a copy of your ATOL certificate, to ensure you have it ready to hand during your trip.\u00a0 Do I need ATOL protection?\u00a0 ATOL protection is a legal requirement for any travel organiser selling to customers in the UK. It\u2019s a necessity any time you\u2019re booking a package holiday that includes an airline ticket. It ensures your money ends up either with the airline and hotel included in the package deal, or back in your hands. In 2024, travellers lost over \u00a311 million to holiday fraud, with over 6000 reports made to Action Fraud. On average, victims lost just over \u00a31,800. To ensure your pounds are protected, the best thing to do when booking your holiday is to double-check that the company you\u2019re booking with offers ATOL protection. Every Blue Bay Travel holiday that includes flights comes with ATOL protection as we only book with certified ATOL-protected suppliers. We believe in finding you the best price, but never at the cost of your financial security. We recommend that when you receive your ATOL certificate, you check that every aspect of your booking (flights, transfers, accommodation etc.) is covered. You can search the ATOL Database to ensure the company listed as the ATOL holder is maintaining its ATOL protection.\u202f\u00a0 \u00a0 What does ATOL Protection cover?\u00a0 ATOL protection covers the money you\u2019ve paid to a travel company for any holiday package that includes a flight. Holiday packages that do not include flights are not covered by the ATOL scheme. If you need to make an ATOL claim, you\u2019ll receive the assistance you need to stay in your accommodation if possible, as well as reimbursements for money you need to spend to replace parts of your trip such as accommodation or transfers that are ATOL protected. If any protected part of your trip that should have been paid for asks you to pay again, you can claim that too. They\u2019ll also help you arrange flights home if necessary. ATOL protection means you can make payments with confidence, knowing that if anything happens to the company handling your money, you\u2019ll still either get the holiday you paid for, or your money back. It also protects you if you have an outstanding refund from a cancellation made prior to the company ceasing to trade as an ATOL holder.\u00a0 ATOL makes the process of claiming as simple as possible, usually offering a few different options, depending on whether you want to try and continue your holiday or receive a refund. If you\u2019ve made your payments by credit card, you can often reclaim your money by simply filing a claim with your bank using supporting documentation from ATOL. Otherwise, you can use the ATOL website to make a claim using your ATOL certificate, booking confirmation, passport, ticket details and bank statements. Once submitted, your claim should be reviewed within 28 working days. After a company ceases trading as an ATOL holder, there\u2019s usually a 12-month window during which customers can make a claim.\u00a0 ATOL protection vs travel insurance: What\u2019s the difference? ATOL protection should not be confused with travel insurance. ATOL insures you specifically against financial loss due to a travel organiser you booked with encountering financial difficulties and ceasing to trade. It does not cover other reasons for delays or cancellations. When you book your holiday, you should also take out your own separate travel insurance to cover things like lost luggage, medical emergencies and last-minute cancellations due to weather or sickness. ATOL protection does not cover cancelled, delayed or missed flights, general disputes with travel companies or accommodations-only bookings. For additional protection, Blue Bay Travel is also a proud ABTA member. ABTA\u2019s code of conduct holds travel agents to a high standard, ensuring transparency and fairness for consumers while offering reassurance and assistance if any queries or issues arise.\u202f\u00a0 Conclusion\u00a0 At Blue Bay Travel, we take our responsibilities to you seriously. Whether you\u2019re booking a once-in-a-lifetime trip or your yearly getaway, know that your money is safe with us. We certainly don\u2019t plan on going anywhere, but you deserve the peace of mind knowing your money is protected either way. From over-water villas in the Maldives to sun-soaked balconies in the Caribbean, our holidays offer rejuvenation and relaxation, from the moment you book to the flight back home. Browse our ATOL-protected and ABTA-informed package deals or give one of our expert agents a call and book your next holiday with Blue [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":180,"featured_media":36133,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[],"tags":[1117,797,1043,684],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v20.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>What is ATOL Protection? | Blue Bay Travel<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What is ATOL protection and do I need it? 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