'Simply not worth the risk': 8 things I wouldn’t do as a travel expert in 2026

These mistakes are easy to make, but could cost you thousands amid a challenging time for travellers

If you’re booking a trip soon, or already have a holiday in the diary, you may be feeling worried about disruption this summer.

But there’s plenty you can do to protect your plans, and your money, starting today.

Over the past few months, flights have been delayed or cancelled due to closed airspace and airports in the Middle East. 

Closer to home, the roll-out of Europe’s new biometric border checks has also caused chaos for British travellers in several countries.

Read on for eight mistakes you should avoid if you’re travelling this year.

1. Booking without checking a holiday company’s surcharge policy

You’d be forgiven for thinking the price you book a holiday for is the price you’ll end up paying – especially if you’ve parted with a deposit, or even paid in full. But as the price of jet fuel surges, holidays may become more expensive, even if they’re already booked.

UK holiday firms can legally, in some cases, add up to 8% to the cost of your package holiday without giving you the right to free cancellation – and that includes when fuel prices increase.

But you can protect yourself by booking with a holiday company that’s a Which? Recommended Provider, as all of these companies have pledged no unexpected costs for your holiday. 

Find out which companies made this commitment in our guide to the mor.. https://shorturl.at/wvoVn