Context
The ABI has issued Travel insurance advice for wildfires in France and Spain. As they continue to spread, the ABI is urging holidaymakers to pay close attention to local advice and updates from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), as travelling against this is likely to invalidate your insurance, and to check travel insurance policies. Insurers are ready to support customers and as the fire continues to spread the ABI is sharing travel insurance advice.
Key points to note and next actions
- If you’re being forced to leave your accommodation, it’s vital you follow the advice of emergency services and any local health advice.
- If your travel insurance policy includes trip disruption or natural disaster cover, you should be covered if you have to cut short or cancel your holiday.
- Your travel insurance will apply in the usual way if you need emergency medical treatment.
- If you have lost or had to abandon your possessions, these will likely be covered by standard travel insurance policies.
- Policies can vary, so speak to your insurer and they can advise on available support.
- Refunds for cancelled flights or accommodation should be sought from the airline, tour operator or accommodation provider in the first instance. Any bookings made through a credit card may also have recoverable costs.
- If you want to book another flight back to the UK or need alternative accommodation, speak to your insurer first to check what is covered and they can advise on next steps.
- If you’ve not yet set off on holiday, contact your insurer before you decide to cancel flights or book any new accommodation. They can advise on what your policy covers.