Travel
The most common issues and accidents on package holidays
A guide to the most common issues on package holidays, including hotel incidents, transport problems and travel related accidents abroad.
Package holidays are designed to make travel simpler. With flights, accommodation and sometimes excursions arranged together, they offer a more structured way to get away and high level of consumer protection.
However, even well-planned trips don’t always go exactly to plan. From small disruptions to unexpected incidents, there are moments where things can go wrong while travelling abroad.
Our latest research shows that almost one in five Brits (19%) have been injured on holiday abroad, highlighting that these experiences are not unusual.
This guide explores common package holiday problems, using everyday examples to show where issues can arise and why awareness can make a difference before you go abroad.
The most common issues on package holidays
Many of the issues travellers face abroad don’t come from unusual situations. Instead, they often happen during normal parts of a holiday, in hotels, while getting around, or taking part in activities.
Our data shows that over a third of injuries (34%) are caused by slips or trips, which reflects how easily something unexpected can happen in everyday surroundings.
Hotel related accidents and safety concerns
For most travellers, arriving at the hotel is where the holiday starts. It’s also where a significant amount of time is spent, which helps explain why many incidents happen in these settings.
Hotels are designed for comfort and convenience, but they are also environments that are actively managed, with an expectation that shared spaces are kept safe for guests.
Slips, trips and falls in hotels
Moving between rooms, corridors and shared spaces is part of everyday hotel use. It’s also where slips and trips most commonly occur.
Wet flooring, uneven surfaces or lighting differences can all play a role, particularly in busy areas where people are coming and going throughout the day.
Swimming pool and leisure facility safety
Pool areas naturally see a lot of guests, especially in warmer destinations, and are often central to the holiday experience.
While these environments are designed for relaxation, they are still part of a managed setting. Surfaces, layouts and safety measures are expected to be maintained, even where there is high usage.
Transport and transfer related incidents
Getting to and from the airport and your hotel is a normal part of any package holiday, but accidents do occur during transfers.
Airport transfers and local transport
Transport included as part of a package holiday is arranged in advance, forming part of the overall trip.
Journeys are often straightforward, but issues can still arise, from delays or confusion through to more serious incidents such as road traffic accidents.
As part of a package holiday, these journeys are expected to be organised and carried out safely, making them just as much a part of the travel experience as the accommodation itself.
Excursions and activity related risks
Excursions are often one of the most memorable parts of a holiday, offering the chance to try something new and experience a destination in a different way.
It's important to remember that locally booked excursions, even through your tour operator's representative may not form part of your package which can mean your contract is with a local supplier.
Organised excursions and activities
Whether it’s a boat trip, guided tour or an outdoor activity, excursions are often a key part of a package holiday, taking place in settings that are separate from the main hotel environment. Our research shows that around one in five injuries are linked to activities and sports, highlighting that incidents often happen during these more active parts of a trip. As part of a package holiday, these activities are typically arranged in advance, with an expectation that they are organised and carried out safely, even where they take place in different locations or settings.
Why these incidents happen
Many of these incidents arise within managed holiday settings, such as hotels, transport and organised activities, where there is an expectation of safety.
Environmental and local factors
Package holidays are set up as managed experiences, where hotels, transport and organised activities are expected to meet appropriate standards of safety and maintenance. In practice, many incidents happen when something within that environment has not been maintained, set up or managed as it should be. This might include hazards not being addressed, facilities not being properly maintained, or services not being carried out to the standard expected as part of a package holiday.
Where to find reliable travel information
For more expert led advice, you can explore our dedicated travel hub, where you’ll find guidance and information to help you plan and prepare.
For additional travel advice and updates, you can also refer to trusted sources such as:
- The UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) offers up‑to‑date travel advice, including safety information for specific destinations.
- Organisations such as ABTA offer practical tips on booking and travelling safely.
ABOUT THE RESEARCH
Based on a nationally representative survey of 2,000 adults conducted by Slater and Gordon in June 2026, the data explores how people travel, the types and causes of injuries encountered, and the resulting impacts on their trips. The findings also examine how individuals respond to incidents and perceive risk, offering valuable insight to inform communications, raise awareness of holiday safety, and support legal and consumer guidance initiatives.