tour operator
A company that assembles travel elements such as transport, lodging and guided activities into a package sold to customers.
Definition
A tour operator designs and sells package trips. It contracts with airlines, hotels, local guides and transport companies, then sells the bundle directly or through travel agents. Because the operator carries the risk of the package, consumer protection laws in many places apply specific duties, such as refunds or repatriation when the operator fails. Check the protections that apply, what is included and how changes are handled. Confirm what the price includes and excludes, such as meals, entrance tickets and local taxes, before booking.
In a sentence
The tour operator bundled flights, hotels and guided excursions.
A travel agent sold the package on behalf of the tour operator.
