People are missing out on vital protections by using buy now, pay later instead of credit cards to pay for holidays, experts warn.
Buy now, pay later (BNPL) has grown hugely in recent years, and holiday firms and hotel chains have been adding it to the options for payment when booking online, saying it can make trips more attainable.
“Stay now, pay later” is the new slogan from budget hotel chain Travelodge, which recently announced that guests can now pay via Klarna, Clearpay or PayPal – the three companies that dominate the UK BNPL market.
Similarly, a number of travel agents and flight booking sites offer BNPL under the banner of “Fly now pay later”. Customers do not have to pay the full cost of their flights upfront – they can spread the cost over instalments.
And Airbnb announced in late 2023 that it was teaming up with Klarna in the UK so guests could spread the cost of stays over weeks or months. The service is available for reservations priced between £35 and £4,000.
Data issued this week showed that searches on Google for phrases such as “buy now pay later flights” and “buy now pay later hotels” are up sharply on earlier this year, suggesting people are looking for ways to book more flexibly.
BNPL is a form of credit where the cost of what you are buying is typically split into three or four instalments. If you keep to your repayment plan, you will not usually pay interest or charges.
However, there is concern that some people could end up taking out loans they cannot afford to pay back on time, thereby incurring charges, tipping them into debt and damaging their credit score.
Experts warn that using BNPL to pay for holidays or trips also offers fewer consumer protections than more traditional credit.
“While it can be really convenient, it’s worth remembering that it doesn’t come with the same protections as a credit card,” says Matthew Sheeran from Money Wellness, a debt solutions and budgeting website.
If you pay with a credit card, section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act means that if a purchase between £100 and £30,000 goes wrong, the credit card provider is jointly liable with the retailer.
Sheeran says that with BNPL, if there is a problem, “you’ll usually have to chase the retailer or travel provider yourself, which can be stressful and time-consuming. It’s worth checking whether the BNPL provider offers any dispute process, but these aren’t as robust or guaranteed as section 75”.
He adds that while this form of payment is fine for smaller low-risk purchases, for bigger spends, a credit card still offers a safety net.
“BNPL is starting to edge into travel because it offers a way for people to ‘buy now, budget later’,” says Maisie Blewitt at Transfer Travel, an online marketplace where people can buy and sell unused trips.
She says that if you pay using BNPL and the airline or hotel goes bust, for example, your money could be at risk of being lost.
“Refunds can be messy, too, because if a trip is cancelled, instalments can keep coming out of your account until the refund clears, which could take weeks,” she says.
She adds that as this is a developing area of regulation, terms and protections can differ from provider to provider.
“Before using buy now, pay later for a holiday, make sure you carefully read and fully understand the small print,” says Blewitt.
People who use BNPL in this way typically do not have to pay for the trip before they travel, so charges may still be coming out of their account months after they have been away.
There is no universal maximum spending limit, so how much you can borrow depends on which provider you use, your creditworthiness, and how much risk it is willing to take.
“It feels risk-free, and that’s the problem,” says Sebrina McCullough from Money Wellness. “Interest-free offers make it feel like a payment method, not borrowing. But it’s still credit, and if you use it to fund what you can’t afford, the risks grow.”
The UK’s financial regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority, is to start regulating BNPL from July 2026.
This means BNPL loans will become regulated credit agreements and, crucially, people using this form of credit will be covered by section 75. They will also be able to access the Financial Ombudsman Service if they need to make a complaint.
This request seems a bit unusual, so we need to confirm that you’re human. Please press and hold the button until it turns completely green. Thank you for your cooperation!
The spear is a new weapon in Minecraft that bridges the gap between the sword and the trident. It’s launching as part of the Mounts of Mayhem update and allows players to perform both quick jabs and destructive charge attacks. Sounds…
Heart disease is the number one cause of death globally, and despite immense advancements in treatment, millions get diagnosed with it each year. While heart disease is not reversible, and is fairly progressive, it is entirely preventable and…
SHANGHAI, Oct. 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Track Test Drive: From October 15 to 16, the EXEED International User Summit launched its track test drive in Shanghai. A total of 124 guests from 24 countries attended. The event featured on-track experiences and static displays, allowing participants to witness EXEED’s industry-leading “firsts” and “onlys” in person.
BEV Highlights: As a premium global NEV brand, EXLANTIX showcased its BEV lineup with outstanding performance. The models can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in around 3 seconds, delivering supercar-level power. They also feature a turning radius of just 5.65 meters — the smallest in their class.
Hybrid Highlights: In hybrid technology, EXEED combines the industry’s first REEV Golden Extended-Range system with the world’s exclusive Quad-Motor AWD PHEV. During the event, four upcoming global hybrid models also made appearances.
From October 15 to 16, the EXEED International User Summit launched its track test drive in Shanghai. A total of 124 guests from 24 countries attended. Through immersive on-track experiences and static displays, EXEED presented its latest achievements in electrification, hybrid technology, intelligence, and design. The event allowed guests to experience multiple industry “firsts” and “onlys” in person.
After test-driving several EXEED models including the ES, ET, E01 PHEV, and VX PHEV, top Qatari auto influencer Mohammad Nehad Ahmad Alomari-Zrdifd from Horsepower commented: All of these cars deliver a great driving experience, each with its own strengths. For instance, the ES has a futuristic design, the ET handles turns very well. But what they all share is impressive acceleration and excellent handling!
BEV Highlights: ES BEV and ET BEV, High-Performance Electric Models
As one of the key models on the track, the ES BEV demonstrates exceptional aerodynamics with a drag coefficient of just 0.205Cd and delivers an impressive 8,000 N·m of wheel-end torque. It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.7 seconds. Equipped with the IAS intelligent air suspension and CDC adaptive damping system, the ES BEV continuously adjusts ride height and damping stiffness according to road conditions and driving modes. This intelligent coordination effectively minimizes body roll during high-speed cornering, enhancing handling precision and overall stability.
The ET BEV also delivered impressive performance, with an electric motor producing a peak output of 353 kW. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, unleashing strong power from the very first moment on the track. Its chassis features class-leading IAS intelligent air suspension and CDC adaptive damping, capable of completing dynamic adjustments within 1 second. Paired with an advanced double-wishbone structure, the ET BEV maintains a stable body posture even under aggressive track driving. Notably, its 5.65-meter turning radius—the smallest in its class—ensures agile handling during slalom tests and adds practical convenience for everyday driving.
Norwegian top 3 auto KOL Falch Krister Riis also shared his feedback after testing the ES and ET: Both cars offer great handling. The ES accelerates quickly, while the ET is very comfortable to drive — and its charging speed is amazing!
Hybrid Highlights: ET REEV and RX PHEV Lead the Way, Balancing Performance and Efficiency Across the Hybrid Range
In the hybrid lineup, the ET REEV and RX PHEV served as the key models for the track test. The VX PHEV and E01 PHEV also made appearances, showcasing the breadth of EXEED’s hybrid offerings. The ET REEV features the industry-first Golden Extended-Range technology, equipped with a high-efficiency engine achieving 44.5% thermal efficiency. One liter of fuel can generate 3.7 kWh of electricity, the highest in its class. It also comes with front and rear electric motors, delivering a total system output of 345 kW. The AWD system provides robust power, enabling 0–100 km/h acceleration in just 4.9 seconds. Even in a discharged state, the vehicle can reach 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. On the track, the ET REEV’s electric-motor-driven system ensures rapid throttle response during straight-line acceleration, delivering a driving feel on par with that of pure electric vehicles.
The RX PHEV is equipped with the world’s exclusive Quad-Motor AWD PHEV system. It delivers a combined output of 395 kW and 650 N·m of torque, accelerating from 0–100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. This demonstrates the performance advantages of its four-motor hybrid system. On the track, the vehicle’s hybrid “Sport Mode” coordinates power delivery, providing strong acceleration during straight-line runs. Additionally, with a combined range exceeding 1,300 km, the RX PHEV eliminates range anxiety for everyday driving.
Intelligent Technology: ET and ES Feature VPD + RPA for an Enhanced Parking Experience
Beyond performance, EXEED also showcased its advancements in intelligent technology during the track event. Both the ET and ES models are equipped with VPD (Valet Parking Drive) and RPA (Remote Parking Assistance), offering a new level of convenience and safety for parking.
As the only model in its segment equipped with VPD, the system features two modules: Remote Valet Parking and Remote Smart Summon. Once the vehicle enters a designated area, the driver can activate Remote Valet Parking and leave. The system autonomously searches for a parking space, parks the car, and then automatically locks, closes the windows, and powers down. For the next use, drivers can activate Remote Smart Summon via the mobile app. The system will then bring the vehicle out of the parking spot and drive it to the designated pick-up point.
The RPA addresses the common problem of parking in tight spaces where exiting the vehicle is difficult. The driver selects a suitable parking space, engages the P gear, and applies the handbrake. Using Bluetooth or the key fob, the system is activated with a single command, and the vehicle parks itself automatically. For tight spaces where getting back in is difficult, the vehicle can also be remotely controlled to exit the spot with ease.
Premium Highlights: E02 and MX Presented, Showcasing New Technology Premium
In the static display area, the all-new E02 and MX drew significant attention. Their striking design language captivated media and KOLs, who stopped to admire and photograph the vehicles. The E02 features a distinctive “Cloud Waterfall” grille, conveying strength and presence. Its side profile highlights the “Wind-Flow Horizon” beltline. This line stretches from the headlights to the rear and runs parallel to the roofline, creating an elegant and cohesive silhouette. At the rear, the “Sunset Glow” through-tail lamps feature a clean, sculpted design. When illuminated at night, they showcase the fusion of Eastern aesthetics and modern technology.
The MX features a “Starwing” light strip that runs parallel from the headlights to the taillights. Its minimalist yet profound design creates a dreamlike effect, as if the entire vehicle is surrounded by starlight. The light strip houses 472 LEDs, stretching a total length of 3,499.3 mm, to deliver a dazzling starry visual experience. The MX is paired with five-spoke star-pattern wheels, crafted with a hollow multi-layer structure. The interplay of light and shadow creates a three-dimensional starburst effect, enhancing the vehicle’s refined, tech-premium appeal.
The track test drive in Shanghai offered more than 120 guests an immersive experience. It showcased EXEED’s achievements and capabilities across performance, intelligent technology, and design in the new energy sector. Looking ahead, EXEED plans to introduce its new energy vehicles to high-regulation markets such as Norway and Denmark, providing local customers with more premium mobility solutions.
Presidential Symphony Orchestra dedicates its concert to UN at 80
To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, the Presidential Symphony Orchestra (CSO) hosted a special concert in Ankara under the baton of Maestro…
Mount Etna is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Located on the east coast of Sicily, it erupts multiple times per year – most recently in June this year.
While it is somewhat possible to predict eruptions, a new study publishedin Science…
The Co-op has quietly told staff to boost promotion of vapes in an effort to win back customers and sales after a devastating cyber-attack.
The ethical retailer is making vapes more prominent in stores via new displays and additional advertising, according to an internal document seen by the Guardian. It is also stocking a bigger range of vapes and nicotine pouches.
The action plan is to tackle a big sales drop after the April hack that resulted in gaps on its shelves.
Called Powering Up: Focus Sprint: Cigs, Tobacco and Vape, the document says: “Sales haven’t recovered compared to pre-cyber.” In a section headed “Why we need to focus on this category?”, it says there are “£1m missing sales per week” and 100,000 fewer transactions.
It states: “We know at least 40% of this is customers forming a new habit, shopping elsewhere as they wouldn’t go without their cigarettes, tobacco or vapes. This means we’ve also lost sales from what would’ve been in their basket.”
The Co-op’s approach to selling vape products in its more than 2,000 grocery stores complies with UK legislation and government guidelines but staff have raised concerns about whether it is contrary to its standing as an “ethical” retailer.
On its website, the Co-op spells out that it puts “principles before profit”. It says: “As well as having clear financial and operational objectives and employing 54,000 people, we’re a recognised leader for our social goals and community-led programmes.”
The activity comes at a time of mounting concern about youth vaping after evidence showing that the numbers of under-18s trying or using vapes has soared in recent years. The brightly coloured packaging and flavours such as bubblegum or candy floss are a significant part of their appeal.
England’s chief medical officer, Prof Chris Whitty, has raised concerns about the marketing of vapes, saying: “If you smoke, vaping is much safer; if you don’t smoke, don’t vape.”
A source told the Guardian that staff had not been told explicitly to sell more vapes but whereas before their presence in store was low-key, there were now ads strategically placed in high-traffic areas and eye-catching display units.
“Before [the hack] even if I didn’t always enjoy work I respected the Co-op,” the source said. “They present the lovely idea of ethical shopping – you might pay a bit more but they are doing things right. This strategy goes against everything we’ve done until now.”
They said the Co-op was known for its ethical business model and that set it apart from other companies. “This recent decision to exploit a known health problem and make a profit goes against the values the Co-op was built on and stands for.”
The government’s tobacco and vapes bill, which is making its way through parliament, will outlaw vape advertising and sponsorship. It will also restrict the flavours, packaging and display of vapes and other nicotine products.
A Co-op spokesperson said: “As a member-owned organisation, our longstanding commitment to ethical values and responsible retailing remains steadfast and at the heart of how we do business.
skip past newsletter promotion
after newsletter promotion
“The sophisticated cyber-attack we experienced means we are now even more focused on powering up all aspects of our stores to serve the needs of shoppers.”
They added: “It is important to be clear that the sale of vape products in our stores is fully compliant with all UK legislation and government guidelines, in their recognised role as a successful route to smoking cessation.”
Co-op managers are trying to repair its finances after the cyber incident, which forced it to shut down parts of its IT systems. In a recent business update, the retailer said the fallout pushed it into the red in the first six months of its financial year.
The cyber-attack led to gaps on shelves in its grocery stores, while its more than 800 funeral parlours were forced to return to operating some services via paper-based systems because of having no access to digital services.
The upheaval wiped more than £200m off sales, and the group anticipates the final bill will result in a £120m hit to full-year profits.
The document seen by the Guardian relates to what is a store-wide “Power Up” programme covering all product categories.
