FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions – International Travels
- Purchase of a Trip
- How can I purchase a trip?
You can purchase a trip online through the travel agency's website. Simply select the offer you're interested in, complete the booking form, and make the payment. Alternatively, you can book a trip over the phone by contacting our customer service team.
- Do I need to pay a deposit?
Many travel agencies require a deposit at the time of booking, with the remaining balance to be paid before departure (usually a few weeks before the planned travel date).
- When can a booked trip be canceled?
Trip cancellations are rare but can occur under certain circumstances. These are typically related to unforeseen events that pose safety risks, such as wars, riots, strikes, natural disasters, or other dangerous situations. In such cases, travel organizers usually offer a full refund or propose an alternative trip at the same price. Trips may also be canceled if the minimum required number of participants is not reached, especially for tour packages. Generally, at least 80% of spots must be booked. In such situations, the travel agency has the right to cancel the trip, notifying participants in writing within the following timeframes:
- 20 days before departure for trips lasting more than 6 days,
- 7 days before departure for trips lasting 2 to 6 days,
- 48 hours before departure for trips lasting less than 2 days.
Participants have the right to choose options outlined in the terms and conditions of participation, which are included with the contract.
- Who organizes the trips?
We offer trips from over 100 different travel agencies, including reputable companies such as Nekera, Rainbow, and Almatur. For each offer, you'll find information about the travel agency responsible for organizing the trip above the detailed description. Additionally, the organizer's logo will be visible on the contract you sign.
- How can I check if the destination country requires a visa?
Information about visa requirements is available in the "Before You Travel" section on the specific offer page. You can also find this information on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at: www.gov.pl/web/diplomacy/travel-information.
Does the organizer assist with obtaining a visa?
If a visa is required before travel, the organizer usually offers assistance in obtaining it for an additional fee. Alternatively, travelers can arrange for a visa on their own. In some cases, the cost of the visa is included in the price of the trip. Details regarding this can be found in the "Before You Travel" section on the offer page.
What does the trip price include, and what are the additional charges?
Detailed information is available in the "Offer Description" section under pricing details. Typically, the cost of a trip with hotel accommodation abroad includes:
- Basic insurance,
- Mandatory contributions to the Tourist Guarantee Fund and the Tourist Assistance Fund,
- Accommodation,
- Meals according to the chosen package,
- Flights,
- Transfers between the airport and hotel (both ways),
- Resident assistance (depending on the destination and organizer).
What are the Tourist Assistance Fund and the Tourist Guarantee Fund?
The Tourist Assistance Fund (TFP) is a mandatory safeguard ensuring refunds in extraordinary situations, such as border closures or the inability to carry out a trip. The cost of the TFP fee varies depending on the type of trip and ranges from 2 to 15 PLN per person.
The Tourist Guarantee Fund (TFG) is a statutory fee that provides protection for travelers in case of issues with trip execution. It covers, among other things, return transport in case of trip interruption or reimbursement of payments if the trip does not take place.
- Payment
How can I pay for my booking?
We offer several payment options for your convenience:
- Traditional bank transfer to the tour operator’s account.
- When booking online, you can pay with a debit/credit card, PayPo, tPay Installments, Blik, Twisto, PayPal, Google Pay, Apple Pay, or a quick online transfer.
- Payment with MyBenefit points: You can use Benefit points via our hotline.
- Payment via E-Voucher: Redeemable through VacationClub.pl for trips booked on their platform.
Do I have to pay the full amount immediately?
No, you don’t have to pay the full amount upfront. For trips scheduled more than 30 days in advance, a deposit is usually sufficient. The final payment deadline depends on the organizer, and we will send you a reminder email as the due date approaches.
When and how should I make the additional payment for my booked vacation?
The deadline and amount for the additional payment are provided in your booking confirmation email. You’ll receive a reminder four days before the payment deadline. Typically, organizers require the balance to be paid 20–40 days before departure. Payment instructions, including account details, will be included in the reminder. If you prefer another payment method, please contact us at contact@vacationclub.pl. If you made a payment directly to the organizer, please send a PDF confirmation to the same email address to allocate the payment to your reservation.
Why are payments split into a deposit and a balance payment instead of a single upfront payment?
Most bookings are made well in advance, and splitting payments protects both organizers and travelers. Organizers are required to secure client deposits and allocate them solely for the booked trip. This system also provides flexibility for travelers in case of cancellations. Note: Please avoid paying the balance too early. Payments made more than five days before the due date may need to be refunded and reprocessed.
Can additional fees arise at the destination?
In some locations, additional fees such as tourist or accommodation taxes may apply, which are not included in the trip price. Details are provided in the "Before You Travel" section on the offer page. These fees, often based on the accommodation category, are usually paid upon check-in. For tour packages, there may also be fees associated with itinerary activities, as specified in the offer description.
What happens if I fail to make the additional payment for my booked vacation?
Failure to pay the balance by the due date may result in your booking being canceled. In such cases, cancellation fees (costs of withdrawal) may apply. If the deposit does not cover these fees, the outstanding amount may be sent for collection. If you encounter payment difficulties, please contact us immediately to discuss options for cancellation or adjustments.
What happens to my money if the organizer cancels the trip?
If the organizer cancels the trip, you will receive a notification outlining alternatives or the refund process. The notification will include details on the refund's form and timeframe. If you paid via bank transfer and decide to book a new trip, our advisor will assist you in transferring the funds to your new booking.
- Luggage
What are the carry-on baggage limits?
Each airline has its own rules regarding carry-on baggage, so it's important to check the specific details on the carrier's website. Generally, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag weighing up to 5 kg with dimensions not exceeding 55 x 40 x 20 cm. Such luggage should fit under the seat in front of you. Detailed baggage allowance information can be found in your travel agreement or on the airline's website.
Note: A wheeled suitcase intended for the overhead compartment may incur additional fees.
What are the size and weight limits for checked luggage?
Checked baggage limits are set by the airline operating your flight. Specific details about the maximum size and weight allowances for both carry-on and checked luggage can be found in your travel agreement. Keep in mind that for low-cost airlines, ticket prices often include only carry-on luggage, while checked baggage is not included. In such cases, you can purchase checked baggage separately. Simply contact us at contact@vacationclub.pl to receive information about available options and prices.
How can I purchase additional luggage, and can it be modified?
If you wish to purchase additional luggage, you can choose from various options, such as 10 kg carry-on or checked luggage weighing 10 kg, 20 kg, or 32 kg. To purchase, send a request to contact@vacationclub.pl from the email address linked to your booking and include your booking number, which starts with "WAK."
Once we receive your request, we will contact the organizer to confirm the baggage price and send you a payment link. Please note that the availability of additional baggage depends on the remaining capacity of the aircraft. Purchased luggage applies to the entire round trip unless otherwise specified.
Important: If you plan to purchase additional luggage, notify us at least four days before departure to allow time for processing. Once the baggage is added to your booking and paid for, modifications or cancellations are no longer possible. If one of the passengers cancels their reservation, the purchased baggage cannot be transferred to another passenger.
Where can I report damaged or lost luggage?
In case of damaged or lost luggage, immediately visit the airport’s Lost and Found office (often labeled as "Lost Luggage" or "Lost & Found") and report the issue. You will receive a Property Irregularity Report (PIR), which is required for further compensation claims.
For damaged luggage, airlines typically only recognize visible damages (e.g., broken or damaged wheels, handles, or deep dents). The next steps will depend on the airline's policy, but the claim should be filed as soon as the damage is noticed.
If your luggage is lost, report it before leaving the airport’s restricted area. You will need to provide a list of the missing items and their value, along with proof of purchase (e.g., receipts or invoices). In the absence of receipts, some airlines may calculate the value based on the luggage's weight.
Does a child have the right to their own luggage?
Baggage policies for children vary by airline, but the following rules generally apply:
- For children under 2 years old (infants), carry-on baggage and a stroller are typically allowed. Checked baggage is not usually included.
- For children over 2 years old, the same baggage allowances as adult passengers generally apply, including a checked baggage allowance of 15–20 kg.
If a stroller is included, its weight is typically combined with the carry-on baggage allowance. Check the airline’s specific baggage rules before traveling.
- Changes After Purchase
Can I change the date or destination of my trip?
Changing the date or destination is possible but may involve additional costs or rebooking fees. It’s best to contact the travel agency as soon as possible to make the necessary arrangements.
Can I cancel the trip within 14 days of purchase under consumer law?
According to the law, you cannot cancel a trip within 14 days of purchase under the standard provisions of the Consumer Rights Act. For vacations purchased online, the Tourist Events and Related Travel Services Act applies, which excludes the right to withdraw from the contract within 14 days (Article 27 of the Consumer Rights Act). When you sign a contract online, you accept its terms, and canceling the trip involves costs and procedures outlined in the agreement’s terms and conditions.
How can I modify my trip (e.g., date, airport, or hotel)?
To make changes to your booked trip, such as altering the date, airport, or hotel:
- Contact a consultant – If your booking is paid for and confirmed, submit a change request through the Customer Panel or by emailing contact@vacationclub.pl. Include your booking number in the email title for faster processing.
- Assessment of change costs – Changes may incur additional fees, especially if the tour operator must be changed. In such cases, the original booking may need to be canceled, and a new one created.
- Change cost calculation – After submitting your request, you will receive a detailed cost breakdown for the requested changes.
- Changes to preliminary reservations – If you have a preliminary reservation, changes can often be made without additional fees.
To avoid delays or unnecessary costs, report changes as soon as possible.
How can I cancel my trip, and what are the cancellation costs?
To cancel your trip, follow these steps:
- Report the cancellation – If your booking is paid and confirmed, notify us of your decision promptly. You can do this via the Customer Panel or by emailing contact@vacationclub.pl.
- Cancellation costs – The costs of cancellation depend on the terms outlined in the agreement with the organizer and the timing of the cancellation. Under the Tourist Events Act, organizers may charge fees, often increasing as the departure date approaches. Some organizers do not allow cancellations on the day of departure or shortly before.
- Alternatives before canceling – Before canceling, consider other options such as changing the trip date or participants, which may reduce the cancellation fees.
- Cancellation form – After notifying us, you’ll receive a cancellation form to complete and return (a scan or photo of the signed document is acceptable). Only upon receiving this form will your cancellation be processed.
- Cancellation confirmation – Once the reservation is canceled, you will receive an email confirmation, also available in the VacationClub Customer Panel.
If you only have a preliminary reservation that is not confirmed, you can cancel it without incurring any costs.
- Documents
When will I receive travel documents, and do I need to print them?
You will typically receive travel documents the day before departure, after flight times are confirmed, and boarding passes are issued by the organizer. Exceptions include self-drive vacations and coach tours, where documents are sent 2–3 days before the trip. Documents will be emailed to the address provided during booking.
While many hotels and airports accept electronic documents, it’s recommended to print them for convenience and security.
For low-cost airlines (e.g., Ryanair, Wizz Air), online check-in is available 24 hours before departure, and boarding passes will be sent to you after generation. Unfortunately, we cannot send documents earlier.
Where can I find my travel documents and return tickets?
Travel documents, including return tickets, will be available in the Customer Panel one day before departure and sent to your registered email address.
For low-cost airline flights, return tickets may be delivered to your hotel reception, local representative, or available through the organizer’s customer area. For charter flights, tickets are issued during check-in at the airport.
Note: If you have purchased assigned seating during booking, return tickets will be sent along with travel documents.
What documents do I need to complete before traveling?
Check whether your destination requires additional documents, such as entry declarations, locator forms, or health forms (e.g., COVID-19). Requirements vary by country. Detailed information can be found in the "Before Travel" section of the offer.
Some common examples:
- Maldives – A health form must be completed online 24 hours before departure.
- Zanzibar – A health form is required upon entry.
- Seychelles – An online health form is mandatory.
- Morocco – A health form must be submitted before departure.
- Kenya – A health form is required before entry.
Keep in mind that these requirements can change, so always check the latest updates before traveling.
How long must my passport/ID be valid before departure?
Your travel document must be valid for the entire trip. Many countries require that passports or ID cards remain valid for at least six months after the return date. Verify the specific validity requirements for your destination in the "Before Travel" section of the offer. If your document does not meet these requirements, you may be denied check-in at the airport.
What Documents Do I Need to Bring on Vacation?
When going on vacation, you should have the following documents with you:
- Valid Passport or ID Card
- If traveling to countries within the Schengen Area, an ID card is sufficient. For other destinations, a passport is required.
- Travel Documents
- These will be sent to you by email 1-2 days before your trip begins. They include documents needed for airport check-in, coach travel, and hotel check-in. Remember to print them out (black-and-white printing is sufficient).
- Visa
- If a visa is required and cannot be obtained at the airport, ensure you have it before your trip.
- Children and Infants
- Each traveling child must have an appropriate ID document matching the details provided during trip booking.
- Information for Non-Polish Citizens
- If you are not a Polish citizen, contact border authorities or the consulate to confirm the entry requirements for the destination country.
Ensure all travelers' details match the documents you have to avoid issues during check-in.
Do I Need to Sign the Documents and/or Contract Received from You?
No, you do not need to sign the documents or contract in person. By accepting the trip conditions, you are providing an electronic signature, which is equivalent to agreeing to the terms of the contract. If any document requires a physical signature, we will inform you and request it.
Which Countries Require a Visa, and How Can I Obtain One?
Visas are required for travel to many countries. Below are some popular destinations where Polish citizens need to apply for a visa:
- Egypt
- A visa is required for both biometric and temporary passports. It can be obtained at the airport in Egypt or electronically at visa2egypt.gov.eg. The cost of a single-entry visa is $25.
- Tanzania
- A visa can be obtained at major border points (e.g., Zanzibar Airport) or online at eservices.immigration.go.tz. The cost for a single-entry visa is $50 (valid for 90 days).
- Oman
- A visa can be obtained at the diplomatic mission (Oman Embassy in Berlin) or online at rop.gov.om. Visas are also available at border crossings.
- Maldives
- A free 30-day visa is granted upon arrival. You will need a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), a return ticket, and sufficient funds (approx. $150/day).
- Kenya
- Visas can only be obtained online at evisa.go.ke. Children under 16 years old are exempt from visa requirements.
For more information on visa requirements, check the "Before Travel" section of the trip offer or visit the government website gov.pl.
What Documents Are Required for a Child Under 2 Years Old and a Child Over 2 Years Old?
Every child, regardless of age, must have an identification document to travel. Below are details based on the child's age:
- Child Under 2 Years Old:
- Typically, a passport or ID card (if the destination country allows) is required.
- For travel outside the Schengen Area, a passport is mandatory.
- Within the Schengen Area, an ID card is sufficient.
- Child Over 2 Years Old:
- Generally, a passport or ID card is required (depending on the destination).
- An ID card is enough for Schengen countries, but a passport is needed for other countries.
Always check the specific document requirements for your destination in the "Before Travel" section of the trip offer.
What Documents Do I Need If I’m Traveling with a Child Who Is Not My Own (e.g., a Nephew, Grandchild)?
When traveling with a child who is not your biological child (e.g., a nephew, grandchild), it’s essential to prepare additional documents depending on the regulations of the destination country.
Here is what may be required:
- Child’s Identification Documents:
- A passport or ID card (depending on the destination, age of the child, and trip purpose). Most countries require a valid passport for minors traveling abroad.
- Parental Consent:
- Written consent from both parents for the child to travel with someone other than a parent. While this is not required under Polish law, many countries may demand it, especially when the child is traveling with a non-legal guardian.
- The consent should be signed by both parents who have parental authority over the child.
- If one parent cannot provide consent (e.g., due to lack of contact or other reasons), a court ruling may be required to confirm the child can travel with a non-parent.
- Additional Formalities:
- In some countries, further confirmation of parental consent or a court order may be required, especially when traveling outside the Schengen Area.
- Contact the embassy or consulate of the destination country to confirm the local requirements for traveling with a minor who is not your own.
Summary: While not mandated under Polish law, having parental consent is strongly recommended, and in some cases, it may be required by border authorities.
- Travel
- What are the check-in and check-out times at the hotel, and when must I check out on the day of departure?
Hotel check-in typically starts between 14:00 and 15:00, but the exact times are specified in the contract or the hotel offer description. All services, including meals, are available after check-in at the hotel reception. On the day of departure, you must check out by 10:00–12:00. If you want to extend your stay, you should notify the reception. An extension is possible depending on room availability and typically incurs an additional fee.
- Where can I find my flight reservation number?
You will find your flight reservation number in the travel documents sent to you by email before departure. If the flight is operated by a low-cost airline, the reservation number is usually sent along with the boarding passes approximately 12 hours before the scheduled departure. For privacy reasons, the reservation number is not shared earlier. If you need assistance purchasing additional services such as baggage, you can contact customer service via email at kontakt@vacationclub.pl.
- Can the flight times change, and how will I be notified?
Yes, flight times can change, both before departure and before the return flight. Changes can occur even up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight. If the carrier changes the flight times before the start of the trip, we will contact you to provide updated information. In some cases, the organizer may inform you of changes via SMS. If you have any doubts or want to confirm the information, please contact us via email at kontakt@vacationclub.pl. Please note that flight time changes are beyond the organizer's control and do not provide grounds for free cancellation or reservation modification.
- Where can I check the current flight times?
You can check the current flight times on the offer page under the "Offer Description" section. However, for charter flights, these times are approximate. Final confirmation of arrival times will be provided no later than 24 hours before departure. Exact return times will be given by the tour representative during the trip. If your flight is canceled or delayed, you are entitled to care and compensation from the airline. Details about consumer rights in such situations can be found on the website www.konsument.gov.pl.
- What are charter, scheduled, and "low cost" flights?
Charter, scheduled, and "low cost" flights differ depending on the flight organization and the offer:
- Charter flight: Organized by a travel agency specifically for customers purchasing vacation packages. These flights are usually direct, although long-distance destinations may have stopovers for refueling.
- Scheduled flight: Regular flights operating on specific days of the week and times along fixed routes. The travel agency does not own seats but buys tickets for its clients.
- Low cost flight: Operated by budget airlines. Ticket prices are highly competitive but fluctuate throughout the day. Checked baggage is usually not included in the ticket price and must be paid for separately.
- Do I need to check in?
Yes, in some cases, you must check in, especially if the flight is operated by airlines that require additional information before issuing boarding passes. The organizer may ask for details such as citizenship, ID document number, series and number of the document, issuing authority, place and date of issuance, and validity date. These details should be sent in response to an email. If check-in occurs at the airport, the organizer will not require additional information.
- When will my passport details be collected?
Passport details will be collected depending on the type of flight. If you are flying on a charter flight, you will be asked to provide these details during the baggage check-in at the airport. In some cases, organizers may require passport information when making the reservation. If this is the case, you will be informed. Additionally, if traveling to Egypt, following new regulations from April 1, you must send your passport details via email to kontakt@vacationclub.pl or through the Customer Panel at least 4 days before departure. You must send the following information: first name(s) and last name; passport series and number; issuing authority; passport issue date and validity; place of birth; nationality (in ISO-3166 format, e.g., POL, UKR, CZE).
It is important not to send scans or photos of the passport, just the data in the email body. Failure to provide this information or discrepancies with the passport may result in additional costs or the inability to use the services.
- From which airport will I be departing?
To find out from which airport you are departing, check the contract or travel documents for the corresponding IATA code for the airport. If you're unsure, you can look up the airport code in a search engine to verify the departure airport. Here are codes for some popular airports:
- GDN — Gdańsk Rębiechowo
- KTW — Katowice Pyrzowice
- KRK — Kraków Balice
- WRO — Wrocław Strachowice
- WAW — Warsaw Okęcie
- WMI — Warsaw Modlin
- BER — Berlin Brandenburg
Check this information in your travel documents to confirm your departure airport.
- How much time before departure should I arrive at the airport?
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. This provides enough time for a smooth check-in. For some destinations, especially international trips, we suggest arriving 3 hours before departure. This is especially important because check-in must be completed 1 hour before the scheduled flight time.
We will inform you of the recommended arrival time at the airport the day before departure if needed.
- Will we all sit next to each other on the plane?
For scheduled or low-cost flights, it is usually possible to purchase seat reservations to ensure you sit together. For charter flights, seat reservations may not be available in advance, and seats are assigned during baggage check-in at the airport. To sit together, it is advisable to check in in the same group or at the same time. If you require specific seats, contact the tour organizer to find out which options are available.
- It’s my first time flying, what should I know?
Before your first flight, make sure you have all necessary documents, such as an ID card or passport (which must be valid for at least 6 months), travel documents, and insurance policy. Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure to allow enough time for check-in. Also, be sure to label your luggage with your contact information. Before departure, familiarize yourself with the rules regarding carry-on baggage and check the weight limits for the airline you are flying with.
- Will I sit next to my child on the plane?
Whether you will sit next to your child on the plane depends on the child’s age and the airline. Children under 2 years old fly on their parent's lap unless an additional seat is purchased for a car seat. Children over 2 years old are assigned their own seat on the plane. For some airlines (especially scheduled flights), seats are assigned randomly, meaning the child may be seated in a different row from the parent. If sitting next to your child is important to you, consider purchasing seat reservations, especially for scheduled airlines. Charter airlines may not offer this option. If you check in with your child at the same time, seats may be assigned together.
- What is the transfer to the hotel like?
The transfer to the hotel after arrival usually proceeds as follows: after collecting your luggage, head to the exit where you will meet the tour operator’s representative. After gathering all participants, you will be transported to the hotel by the selected means of transportation. Depending on the organizer, it may be a bus that takes tourists to various hotels as part of the same trip. The day before or on the day of departure, the representative (if present on-site) will provide information on the meeting and departure times for the return transfer. If there is no representative at the location, these details can be found on the tour operator’s information board or at the hotel reception. If the return transfer is by bus, the meeting time is often specified in the contract.
- Will I be under the care of a Polish representative upon arrival at the hotel?
Yes, for most charter flight trips, participants are under the care of a Polish representative from the moment they arrive at the hotel. The representative provides information about the vacation organization and recommends tourist attractions. The informational meeting with the representative usually takes place the day after arrival. In the case of trips to exotic countries, the representative may only speak English. Furthermore, if the flight is operated by scheduled or low-cost airlines, the representative may not be present on-site. In such cases, customers receive information cards with emergency numbers that can be used in urgent situations.
- Will someone be waiting for me at the airport?
Yes, but not directly in the transfer area. First, you must go through all the checkpoints and possibly check-in, then collect your luggage. The representative or caretaker will be waiting for you at the airport exit, where they will take you to the hotel and assist with check-in.
- Insurance
- Does the offer include insurance? Yes, all our travel packages include basic insurance, as required by the Act of November 24, 2017, on tourist services and related services. This insurance covers accidents (accident insurance - NW) and medical expenses (KL) abroad. However, we recommend purchasing additional insurance to extend the coverage, including for COVID-19 illness or quarantine situations.
- Can I buy insurance after booking my vacation? Yes, it is possible to purchase insurance after booking your vacation. You can choose different insurance options, including adding coverage for chronic illnesses or extreme sports. Simply send an email to kontakt@vacationclub.pl or contact our customer service hotline. Please note, however, that cancellation insurance can only be purchased directly after making the booking.
- How can I report a claim and use my policy? To report a claim and use your policy, send the claim to likwidacja@axa-assistance.pl or by post to AXA Assistance, Prosta 68, 00-838 Warsaw. The claim should include documents relevant to the type of damage. Here are the details:
- A completed and signed claim form.
- Medical documentation – describing the injury or symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment (if applicable).
- Police or other institution's report – e.g., a protocol about theft, robbery, or other incidents requiring intervention, listing the items and their value.
- Receipts and proof of payment – originals or copies depending on requirements.
- Witness statements – if available.
- Baggage documents – storage receipts or baggage delay confirmation.
- Information from the carrier – regarding the recognized claims for the same issue.
- Proof of ownership of the lost items – e.g., invoices.
- ATM withdrawal proof – in case of loss of money. Ensure your claim is complete to avoid delays in processing the damage.
- Parking
- How can I add parking to my booked tour? To add parking to your reserved tour, you have the following options:
- During online booking – you can add parking service during the reservation process.
- After booking – contact us by phone or email to add parking. Once you’ve placed the parking order, you will receive a reservation confirmation via email, ensuring that your parking space is reserved for you.
- How can I cancel my parking? Log in to the Client Panel and submit the cancellation there. Send an email to kontakt@vacationclub.pl with your order number (preferably in the subject of the message). Cancellation:
- Free of charge – if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled arrival at the parking.
- With a fee – if the cancellation occurs less than 24 hours before arrival. Make sure to submit the cancellation as soon as possible to avoid additional charges.