Travel Red Flags ?? (and How I Fix Them)

Danielle Paradise on 26 August 2025
We’ve all been there: you spot what looks like the deal of the century online. A hotel that’s “too good to be true,” a flight + room package that makes you feel like you’ve hacked the system. But fast forward a few weeks, and suddenly that bargain doesn’t look so clever…

As a travel professional, I see the same mistakes pop up time and time again. So here are the biggest holiday red flags... and how I fix them before they ruin your trip.

?? Red Flag 1: Flights and hotel booked separately

It feels cheaper to piece things together yourself. But here’s the risk: if your flight changes or is cancelled, your hotel booking isn’t protected. Cue stress, extra cost, and hours on hold with airlines. ? How I fix it: I book you a fully ATOL-protected package. That means your money, flights, and hotel are covered, and if anything changes, I deal with it... not you.

?? Red Flag 2: No transfers included

It’s easy to forget the “in-between bits.” That €20 taxi suddenly turns into €150 when you’re stood at the airport at midnight with kids and luggage. ? How I fix it: I make sure transfers are built in (and private ones if you prefer), so you step off the plane and straight into holiday mode.

?? Red Flag 3: Wrong room type

That “seaview room” you thought you booked? Turns out it’s a partial view of the car park with a sliver of ocean in the distance. Or the “family room” is just two beds crammed together. ? How I fix it: I know which hotels genuinely deliver on their promises. I’ll secure the right room layout, bed type, and location for your needs... no nasty surprises when you open the door.

?? Red Flag 4: No one to call when plans change

DIY booking means you’re your own customer service team. Delayed flights? Hotel double-booked? Strike action? It’s on you. ? How I fix it: I’m your point of contact from start to finish. My clients message me directly if something goes wrong, and I sort it while they carry on sipping cocktails.

?? Red Flag 5: “Hidden extras”

That cheap price didn’t include baggage. Or meals. Or even resort fees you’ll be asked to pay on arrival. Suddenly the “deal” costs way more than booking properly in the first place. ? How I fix it: I lay it all out clearly from the start. No hidden surprises, no last-minute costs, and if there’s an upgrade that’s genuinely worth it, I’ll let you know.

The bottom line????

Travel should feel exciting, not stressful. A holiday is too important (and too expensive) to leave to chance or dodgy deals.

By booking with me, you’re not just getting a trip... you’re getting peace of mind. No red flags, no fine print, just the kind of trip you’ve been dreaming about.

? If you’re tired of playing travel roulette online, get in touch. I’ll plan your holiday with zero red flags... just seamless, stress-free memories waiting to happen.