12/21/2024
Few travelers expect holiday travel to go off without a hitch. But it’s unlikely that travelers truly understand how much holiday travel (and its near certain hiccups and delays) are costing them.
A recent report from LegalShield attempts to shed light on that question, pointing out that Americans pay twice for holiday travel disruptions: Once in dollars and once in time.
In particular, the report says Americans face substantial hurdles when seeking travel disruption compensation. It seems that despite increased consumer awareness of their travel rights, the process remains time-consuming and often ineffective with the average person losing several hundred dollars and nearly a full workday pursuing claims.
In particular, the LegalShield report found that:
Nearly four in 10 Americans lose $500-plus due to travel disruptions, while nearly one in five lost more than $1,000
40 percent of holiday travelers spent more than four hours fighting airlines, hotels and rental companies for “rightful compensation” and 14 percent spent more than eight hours
While 75 percent of Americans understand their basic travel rights, more than half (54 percent) don’t feel comfortable asserting them
Meanwhile, the cost of enforcing consumer rights in the travel industry remains prohibitive, according to LegalShield.
"This isn't just about delayed flights or lost bags anymore," Warren Schlichting, CEO of LegalShield said. "We're seeing a failure in consumer protection that's costing Americans both financially and emotionally during what should be a joyful season.”
The LegalShield study also spotlights the most common disruptions impacting holiday travelers:
Flight delays (46 percent of travelers)
Flight cancellations (34 percent)
Lost luggage (32 percent)
Rental car issues (30 percent)
Key Travel Rights to Remember
Asserting your rights as a traveler can be daunting. With that in mind, In addition to highlighting the cost of holiday travel, LegalShield’s report offers some tips for travelers seeking compensation.
Canceled Flights: Airlines must provide full refunds within seven to 20 days
Significant Delays: Free re-booking is required for delays over three hours (domestic) or six hours (international)
Lost Baggage: Airlines must refund fees if bags aren't delivered within 12 hours (domestic)
Rental Cars/Hotels: Review all fees beyond base rates before booking.
The LegalShield survey that formed the basis for its new report was conducted in October 2024 and surveyed 1,028 adults, ages 18 and older, who live in the United States. The sample was balanced by age, among other demographic variables, according to the U.S. Census. For more info please contact Stephanie Stevens or visit https://stephanies43.ladiesofjustice.com/