With significant travel disruption across the globe, Rhys Jones, travel expert at Go.Compare Travel Insurance is advising travellers on the key steps to take if your plans have been impacted: 

“Firstly, if you are travelling anywhere near areas affected by the recent air strikes, your first step should be to check the latest advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The situation is evolving quickly, so it’s essential to monitor the FCDO website frequently if you are currently in an affected area or due to travel soon. 

“If you are already abroad and the situation changes while you’re there, contact your travel provider immediately and follow local authority guidance. Your insurer may also offer a 24‑hour emergency helpline for support. 

“It’s vital to understand that travelling against FCDO advice will invalidate your travel insurance. If the FCDO advises against travel to your destination, most travel providers will cancel flights and holidays.  If your holiday is still going ahead, but you decide not to travel because you feel uncomfortable, you’re unlikely to receive compensation or be covered by your insurance if official advice still says it is safe to travel. 

“If your flights or accommodation are cancelled due to the unrest, your airline or holiday provider should be your first port of call. If you are stuck abroad or at an airport, they should keep you informed, help rearrange flights, and assist with accommodation where necessary. Keep hold of any receipts for meals or unexpected expenses, as you may be able to claim these back. 

“Many travel insurance policies include cancellation or delay cover, but the level of protection varies. Some policies will cover delays of 12 hours, while others only apply after 24 hours or more. If you booked a package holiday, ATOL or ABTA protection may also apply, and your tour operator should support you. 

“Some policies also include travel disruption cover, which provides an additional layer of protection for events such as natural disasters, airport closures or civil unrest. This can cover extended stays, unexpected accommodation costs, or the abandonment of your holiday if you can’t travel. 

“It’s also important to remember that you cannot usually buy travel insurance to cover an event after it has already happened or become public knowledge. If disruption has already begun, new policies generally won’t cover related claims. 

“The key message is simple: if you’re affected by the current situation, contact your airline, your travel provider, and your travel insurance company. Doing so ensures you understand your rights, stay safe, and avoid being left out of pocket.” 

To understand more about travel insurance and travel disruption, visit here.  

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