Holiday booking 'small print' 2026 warning issued by BBC expert

A BBC travel segment led by expert Holly Hamilton issued a 2026-style warning for holiday bookings, urging travelers to scrutinize the “small print” before paying. Speaking on BBC Morning Live, Hamilton—described as a “serial holidaymaker”—said people should not automatically book the first deal they see, as it may not be the best price. She explained that third-party booking sites can sometimes look cheaper because they function like “middlemen” through commission and advertising, but they may hide costs or conditions on provider websites. Hamilton said she uses these sites for price comparison and advised checking inclusions such as luggage, flexible fares, cancellation fees, and extras like free breakfast. She also warned that when problems arise, refunds can be harder, sometimes involving extended chatbot conversations. The guidance emphasized balancing price, convenience, and security.