Buying holidays, accommodation vouchers or travel tickets from a third party can sometimes offer savings — but it also carries risks. Before committing, take time to verify details carefully.
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Please note: This guide is for general information only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be interpreted as such. DoneDeal does not accept any liability for any loss arising from reliance on this guide.
Vouchers for Accommodation
Hotels and B&Bs typically issue their own vouchers, and terms and conditions vary by venue.
Before purchasing a voucher:
Contact the hotel or accommodation provider directly.
Confirm the voucher is valid and unused.
Ask about the terms and conditions.
Check whether it is transferable.
There are no standard industry-wide rules governing vouchers, so always confirm directly with the provider.
Expiry Dates
Most vouchers have an expiry date.
Confirm the voucher is still valid.
If it is close to expiring, ask the hotel whether they are willing to extend it.
Accommodation providers are not legally obliged to extend expiry dates or transfer vouchers, although some may do so at their discretion.
E-Vouchers
Electronic vouchers present additional risks.
E-vouchers can often be printed multiple times.
Confirm with the hotel that the voucher has not already been redeemed.
Ask whether the seller can provide the original issued voucher details.
If possible, meet the seller in person and verify the voucher with the venue before paying.
Booking Accommodation Directly
If booking directly with a hotel or guest house advertised on DoneDeal:
Check independent reviews.
Confirm star ratings where applicable.
Many Irish hotels and guest houses are affiliated with the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF), and Fáilte Ireland carries out inspections and rating assessments.
Buying Airline Tickets
Airline tickets can be particularly complex.
Each airline has its own terms and conditions. Some tickets:
Are non-transferable.
Require name changes.
Carry significant amendment fees.
Before purchasing:
Ask to see the airline’s full terms and conditions.
Confirm whether name changes are allowed.
Confirm any fees involved.
Name change fees can be approximately €100 or more, and date change fees can exceed €250 depending on the airline and fare type.
Clarify whether these fees are included in the price you are paying.
Is It Really a Bargain?
When buying holidays, vouchers or tickets from a third party:
Compare the resale price with current official pricing.
Factor in any change or transfer fees.
Confirm all details directly with the provider.
If the savings disappear once fees are applied, it may not be the deal it first appears to be.
Final Advice
Always verify directly with the hotel or airline before paying.
Be cautious of urgent sales or unusually low prices.
Keep written confirmation of all communications.
Taking the time to check details carefully can help prevent disappointment — and unexpected costs — later.
Thanks to Pat Dawson, CEO of the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA), for contributing insights to this guide.
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