Package Travel: Definition and Explanation for Rotterdam Residents
A package travel combines at least two tourist services, such as a flight from Rotterdam The Hague Airport and hotel accommodation, offered by one tour operator for the same destination. This rule is set out in the Dutch Civil Code and provides solid protection for Rotterdam consumers. Learn when your trip qualifies as package travel and what rights you have in the region.
Legal Definition of Package Travel
Since 1 July 2018, Book 7, Title 3A of the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), in particular Article 7:481(1) DCC, defines what constitutes package travel. This stems from the European Package Travel Directive (EU 2015/2302) for enhanced consumer rights. For Rotterdam holidaymakers, it means a bundle of at least two tourist services for the same stay of at least 24 hours or including an overnight stay. Conditions:
- Sold for a lump sum (combined price).
- Chosen through one tour operator, for example via a local branch or online platform.
- Covers at least 24 hours or includes an overnight stay.
Tourist services include transport, non-business accommodation, car rentals, or extras like attraction tickets (if >25% of the total price).
What Counts as Tourist Services?
Article 7:481(2) DCC lists them. Overview for Rotterdam residents:
- Passenger transport: flight from Rotterdam Airport, train from Central Station, or bus/ferry.
- Accommodation: hotel, apartment, cruise ship, or campsite (not business trips).
- Car or motorcycle rental for max. 1 month.
- Other services: excursions or meals, only if they account for ≥25% of the price and are integrated.
Example: Flight from Rotterdam + hotel = always package travel, regardless of cost breakdown.
Practical Examples for Rotterdam Bookings
Consider a sun holiday to Spain from the port city:
- Package travel: TUI flight from Rotterdam The Hague Airport plus all-inclusive resort for €1,200 – two services via one provider.
- Edge case: Hotel via Booking.com and KLM flight on one site; if one price and provider, it may qualify as package travel.
- Not package travel: Separate Ryanair flight and local hotel, paid individually – limited protection.
City trip to Rome with train from Rotterdam CS + hotel? Package travel. Cruises from Rotterdam port often bundle everything.
Package Travel vs. Individual Bookings
Key for your rights. Comparison:
| Aspect | Package Travel | Individual Bookings |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | ≥2 services, one price, one organizer | Each service separately |
| Protection | Full PTR rules, info, liability, SGR | Basic rights per service |
| Price Guarantee | Limited adjustments | Separate rules per provider |
| Example | Flight + hotel via Corendon Rotterdam | easyJet flight, Airbnb hotel |
Your Rights and Obligations for Package Travel
Consumer Rights
As a Rotterdam resident, you benefit from strong protection under the Package Travel Directive:
- Information duty: Clear trip description with price and terms (Art. 7:484 DCC).
- Price stability: Adjustments limited, max. 8% for unforeseen circumstances (Art. 7:500 DCC).
- Cancellation: Free for serious issues; pro rata refund after start.
- Liability: Organizer liable for the entire trip (Art. 7:514 DCC).
- SGR guarantee: Insolvency protection.
Organizer Obligations
Accurate info, safety, and execution. For shortcomings: remedy or discount (Arts. 7:508-510 DCC). For disputes: contact Rotterdam District Court or Rotterdam Legal Aid Office.
FAQs from Rotterdam Residents
Is a last-minute from Rotterdam Airport package travel?
Not always; yes if ≥2 services via one provider. Standalone ticket no, with hotel yes.
Booking via Rotterdam travel agency or online?
Bundled by one provider (one contract) = package travel with protection.
Does car rental count in my package travel?
Yes, transport + car = package travel; car is a tourist service.
Cancellation due to corona-like issues?
Full refund or voucher within 14 days (Art. 7:503 DCC).
Tips for Safe Travel from Rotterdam
Avoid hassle:
- Check terms and description before booking.
- Choose SGR/ANVR members; consult Rotterdam Legal Aid Office if in doubt.
- For issues: report to Rotterdam Municipality or Rotterdam District Court.