ATOL v ABTA: What is the Difference
ATOL vs ABTA: What’s the Difference – and Why Booking with ItsSo Travel Gives You Both Shields
Why This Matters
Booking a holiday should feel like popping the champagne - not biting your nails over “what-ifs.” Two little acronyms—ATOL and ABTA—make sure it stays that way. They’re the UK’s gold-standard safety nets, and every trip you book with ItsSo Travel is protected by both.
ATOL in Plain English
- Stands for: Air Travel Organiser’s Licence
- Run by: UK Civil Aviation Authority
- Covers: Flight-inclusive package holidays and some flight-only deals.
- If things go wrong:
Get a full refund before you travel, or
Be flown home at no extra cost if your airline or tour operator collapses while you’re away. - Your proof: An ATOL Certificate emailed straight after booking—keep it handy
ABTA in Plain English
- Stands for:
Association of British Travel Agents
- Covers: Land- or sea-based holidays—think cruise, rail, coach, or hotel-only packages.
- Extra perks:
Refunds or repatriation if a non-flight tour operator goes bust.
Free expert mediation if something isn’t as advertised.
Up-to-date travel advice and a robust Code of Conduct.
Why You Want Both
Holiday plans aren’t always neat. Maybe you’re flying to Barbados (ATOL) but adding a cruise add-on (ABTA). With dual cover, every leg of your adventure is cushioned—no loopholes, no sleepless nights.
How ItsSo Travel Has You Covered
We book under our ATOL-license or ATOL-licensed suppliers for any flight element.
We only ever book non flight holidays with ABTA approved suppliers, so even your hotel-only minibreaks are wrapped in a safety blanket.
One call sorts it: Should the unexpected happen, you ring us—not a faceless call-centre—and we manage the paperwork, re-routes, or refunds on your behalf.
No surprise fees: Protection is already built into the price you see.
Question
Answer
Do I still need travel insurance?
Yes—ATOL & ABTA protect your *booking*, not lost luggage or medical costs
How do I know if my trip is ATOL-protected? We email your ATOL Certificate within 24 hours. No cert? Ask us!
What if my airline fails mid-holiday? ATOL pays for replacement flights home—zero out-of-pocket for you.
Does ABTA cover DIY bookings? No. DIY means you’re your own travel agent—come to us instead and relax.
Ready to travel stress-free?
Call 01803 494002, pop into our Torquay shop, or hit sales@itssotravel.com.
Your next adventure is waiting—fully protected.
Should you book an escorted tour online or with a travel agent? Discover the benefits of expert advice, financial protection, and personal support with ItsSo Travel.
Not sure which escorted tour is right for you? Discover tips on group size, budget, inclusions, and pace — plus why book with a travel agent like ItsSo Travel.
Should you choose an escorted tour or an ocean cruise? Compare costs, inclusions, flexibility, and experiences to decide which holiday style is best for you.
Where can you go on an escorted tour? Tours explore Europe, USA, Asia, Africa, and South America escorted holidays — with options for every style and budget.
Can families join escorted tours? Discover family-friendly escorted holidays, age restrictions, and multi-generational options for your next trip, with expert advice
What makes luxury escorted tours different? They offer smaller groups, premium hotels, fine dining, and exclusive experiences. Discover why they’re worth it.
Travelling alone? Discover why escorted tours are ideal for solo travellers as they are safe, sociable, and no single supplements with the right tour operator.
What’s included in escorted tours? Hotels, guides, excursions and meals are usually covered — but some extras aren’t, like tips & drinks. Discover what to expect.
How much do escorted tours cost? Discover average prices for destinations, luxury vs standard options, and real examples to budget your next escorted tour holiday
Think escorted tours are only for older travellers, are too expensive or rushed? Discover the truth as we bust the biggest myths about escorted tours today.
