Traveling During Lockdowns: What You Need to Know

What happens to your plans if your holiday destination is in lockdown? Austria is currently facing this situation until December 13, Germany is considering a similar move, and the Netherlands is experiencing a partial lockdown with venues like restaurants and bars closing early. Should you cancel your accommodations? Can you alter your flight? Will you be entitled to a refund?

Understanding the Current Landscape

Europe is again at the epicenter of the pandemic, and many nations have reimposed restrictions. With Austria implementing a nationwide lockdown and Germany likely to follow, navigating your travel plans has become complicated. In Austria, for instance, while borders are open and flights continue to operate, tourists are generally restricted from traveling.

If you’ve planned a winter getaway to Europe and are reconsidering your plans due to rising COVID-19 cases and increasing travel advisories, here’s what you need to know about modifying your trip and navigating flight options.

Will I Get a Refund if My Hotel is Closed?

During Austria’s lockdown, hotels are closed to new guests, including those who may have bookings. Thankfully, the tourist board indicates that many establishments are providing “very accommodating cancellation conditions” in response to these circumstances.

This means if you have an accommodation reservation that you cannot honor due to the lockdown, you should not have to forfeit any pre-paid fees or fees associated with cancellation. However, it’s crucial to note that there are no uniform regulations; individual establishments will decide their terms. Therefore, you should reach out to your hosts to clarify their specific terms and conditions.

What About My Flight Cancellation or Change Options?

Whether you can cancel or change your flight depends on your airline’s policy. According to European Union passenger rights, if your flight is canceled, you are entitled to a refund unless airlines can rebook you on another flight. Fortunately, to date, major flight operations in Europe remain unaffected. Even in Austria, where flights are still being facilitated despite restrictions because borders remain open.

However, if you feel uncertain about traveling, especially with non-essential businesses shuttered, Christmas markets and ski resorts closed, and no new hotel check-ins permitted, it is wise to examine your airline’s cancellation and change policies to understand your options.

Many airlines, such as Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, Delta, Ryanair, Etihad, and KLM, provide a 24-hour grace period post-purchase for cancellation without penalties, typically applicable if the flight is not set to depart within the next seven days. Rebooking policies differ among airlines, but generally, changes may incur fees.