Are travel companies clamping down on Credit Card Use?

CHR15

Hi credit card people,

not sure if this post would be better off here or the travel forum but hey!
I have attempted to book a holiday in Menorca with First Choice.

Come the payment screen it gives you various options (pay outright, deposit etc).
I tried to pay a deposit using an Alliance & Leicester Mastercard but it failed "there has been a problem with your payment" or some such notice.

I tried and failed again with the same card.

I tried using my Halifax Mastercard, same error, I tried a second time but the payment failed.

At each step I checked (and double checked) the selected payment method and card details.

I gave up with the mastercard and used my Lloyds Debit Card.. No problem at all.

Is it just sceptical/paranoid of me to consider the travel companies not liking Credit Card due to the protection it gives the customer??

I realise as customers, we can reclaim if things go pear shaped. I'm not sure if the Credit Card Companies subsequently claim that refunded money back from the travel agent later on.

If they don't, then my sceptisism is unfounded.

I don't really like the idea of paying the remainder of the fee with my Debit Card. I would rather use my Credit Card and pay it off immediately.

Or should I put my tinfoil hat back on?? :cool:

Thanks for any replies.:beer:

Typhoon2000

I think your sceptisism is unfounded At most they may ask for another 2% to cover credit card fees. I'd try another credit card , maybe Visa, if you have one.

CHR15

I'm not too concerned about the fees.
I was hoping to use the Credit Card for the protection it offers.

I cant believe TWO credit cards can fail where the debit card is fine.

dmg24

The same thing happened to me in January - I tried to order a tv from Currys for my parents (used CC in case they go bust!), my card would not work. We tried my mum's card, and had the same problem. Tried a debit card - no problem at all. Currys blamed the bank, the bank blamed Currys. Very odd.