Can I reduce the price for travel defects?
Yes, for genuine defects. For a package holiday (several services from one source) the tour operator is liable for the promised quality (§ 651i ff. BGB). If the trip deviates significantly — overbooked/dirty hotel, no air-conditioning, noise, cancelled excursions, worse accommodation — you're entitled to a remedy and to a price reduction for the duration of the defect. Crucial: you must report the defect on the spot to the tour rep/operator and demand a remedy. For serious defects you can even terminate and claim damages (including for wasted holiday time).
📋 The rules
- The operator is liable for package holidays as promised (§ 651i BGB)
- For defects: right to a remedy and a price reduction
- Report the defect on the spot and demand a remedy — else you may lose claims
- For serious defects: termination and damages possible
- Compensation for wasted holiday time can also be claimed
🔓 Exceptions
- For single bookings (flight only or hotel only) package law usually doesn't apply
- Trivialities/short inconveniences don't justify a reduction
- Force majeure partly relieves damages, but not the refund of services not provided
⚠️ Penalties & fines
It's about your claims. If you don't report the defect in time, you can lose reduction and damages. So document everything (photos, witnesses, written report) and set a reasonable deadline for a remedy. If the operator doesn't respond, you can reduce the price in writing after the trip and, if needed, sue — courts use guideline tables (e.g. the 'Frankfurt table').
📎 Official sources
- § 651i BGB · Traveller's rights for travel defects →
- Verbraucherzentrale · Complaining about travel defects →
- ADAC · Travel defects and price reduction →
❓ Frequently asked
When can I reduce the travel price?
If your package holiday has a genuine defect — a dirty or overbooked hotel, missing promised services, constant noise or worse accommodation. Then you can reduce the price for the duration of the defect.
Do I have to report the defect on the spot?
Yes, that's crucial. Report the defect at once to the tour rep or operator and demand a remedy. Anyone who stays silent and only complains back home can lose their claims.
How much can I reduce?
It depends on the type and duration of the defect. Courts use guideline tables (e.g. the 'Frankfurt table') — from a few percent for small defects to high rates for serious impairments. Document everything with photos and witnesses.
Can I also get damages?
Yes, for serious defects. Besides the reduction you can claim damages — even compensation for uselessly spent holiday time if the trip was seriously impaired.
Does this apply if I only booked the flight?
Usually not. Package law applies to bundled trips from one source. For a single booking (flight only or hotel only) the provider's own rules or air-passenger rights apply.
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