New GAP Lifetime Deposit

[IncaTrail50]

I just wanted to say kudos to GAP for implementing this new policy regarding deposits. These aren't resort-type trips where one beach is basically the same as another. We choose these trips for their location and that means only that location will do, so if we can't go now we'll go at a later date. We would only cancel if something awful happened and the deposit forfeit adds to the misery as well as the difficulty of saving again to re-book.
Thanks, GAP!

[TravelFun]

Well done GAP and here's for everyone to check it out:

http://www.gapadventures.com/lifetime-deposits/

[Zuleika]

WOW - that's amazing - I travel with a lot of different companies and this is definitely a first.
NICE one GAP! It will defo persuade me back to GAP!

[jimshu]

Yep great but there are travel insurance implications.
Be aware that if you buy 'cancellation/loss of deposit ' insurance, in this situation you may not be able to recover your deposit under their policy, because it is no longer lost, because GAP are just holding it over for you.
Which is OK but if you never do take another trip with GAP you may have lost the right to recover off your insurer, and GAP.
And if the insurer does pay out, you then can double dip because GAP are still holding your deposit.
It remains to be seen how insurers will react in this situation.
Personally I liked the previous situation where you knew exactly where you stood, and could file a claim with your insurer without a third party muddying the waters.

[voidczech]

Wow! Well done!
- Simone

[RichieRich]

Awesome! I always travel with GAP and now this guarantees it.

[blues_traveler]

Another question I had about the Lifetime Deposit:

It says we can transfer our "initial deposit" to a future trip if we cancel. But what is meant by the "initial deposit"? If my initial deposit is the full payment, then will my full payment be credited towards a future trip?

[Reditor]

Hey Blues - 'deposits' and 'full/final payments' are different, as noted by this:

*Applies to the “deposit” value of your payment only. See Gap Adventures terms and conditions for “deposit” amounts. All other permit and final payment amounts subject to Gap Adventures most recent terms and conditions. Not redeemable with any other offer, discount or promotion. Transfer of deposit as a gift valid on new bookings only.

Take a look at the booking terms for clarification:

http://media.gapadventures.com/media-se ... ochure.pdf