Wildfires have led to extensive damage in France and Spain this week. Over 300,000 individuals have been evacuated from regions in Gironde and Landes in France and areas near Madrid and Ávila in Spain.
For those with upcoming summer holiday plans, cancelling your trip due to safety concerns may not be advisable. Rhys Jones, an expert in travel insurance from Go.Compare, recommends monitoring updates from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for potential travel advisories.
In the event that authorities advise against travel, holiday providers or insurers might offer assistance based on booking details and policy coverage. Travelers are advised to heed local guidance, consult with accommodations or travel providers before embarking on their journeys.
If you have a package holiday and the FCDO advises against travel, you are entitled to a refund. However, for individually booked flights and accommodations, refunds are not guaranteed unless official warnings are in place.
Jones advises checking if your insurance policy covers cancellations or catastrophes for potential financial aid. During a holiday with wildfire alerts, prioritize safety by following instructions from local officials, emergency services, and travel providers.
In case of danger, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance line for guidance on available support and required documentation. Keep records of additional expenses like alternative lodging, transport, and essential items, along with any relevant communication with hotels or airlines.