Greece, Turkey, and France are among several popular holiday destinations in Europe currently struggling with devastating wildfires following record-breaking heatwaves. Tourists and business travelers alike have had their travel plans disrupted or are now reconsidering their journeys due to safety concerns. Travelers are left questioning their options as wildfires continue to threaten these picturesque regions.

Wildfires across Europe this summer have increased dramatically, with destinations including mainland Greece, Greek islands like Rhodes and Crete, parts of Turkey, southern France, and the Balkans heavily affected. Extreme heat saw temperatures soaring to a staggering 50.5°C in Silopi, Turkey, and reaching 44°C in cities such as Athens and regions of Cyprus, intensifying the blaze and making it difficult to control.

The impact of these wildfires extends beyond the immediate destruction. For tourists planning to visit these popular holiday spots, the uncertainty regarding their travel arrangements has left many in confusion. Travelers who no longer wish to continue their trips, even if their resort has not been directly affected, face limited options if they did not purchase additional travel insurance coverage that specifically includes natural catastrophes.

How Travelers Can Minimize the Impact of Wildfires on Their Vacation

Wildfires in Europe, especially in regions like Greece, Turkey, and France, have disrupted travel plans for many tourists. While these natural disasters are beyond our control, there are proactive steps travelers can take to minimize the impact on their vacations and financial losses.

1. Stay Informed with Official Alerts

• Monitor Travel Advisories: Regularly check government websites such as the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or your home country’s travel advisory for the latest updates on affected areas.
• Enable Emergency Notifications: Activate emergency alerts on your smartphone to receive real-time information about wildfires and other natural disasters.
• Follow Local Authorities: Pay attention to local news and official channels for evacuation orders and safety instructions.

2. Review and Understand Your Travel Insurance

• Check Coverage for Natural Disasters: Ensure your travel insurance policy includes coverage for cancellations or delays due to wildfires. Not all policies offer this, so it’s crucial to verify.
• Understand Policy Exclusions: Be aware that many policies do not cover “disinclination to travel”—choosing not to go due to fear of wildfires without an official travel advisory.
• Document All Communications: Keep records of all interactions with airlines, hotels, and tour operators. This documentation can be vital when filing insurance claims.

3. Prepare an Emergency Kit

• Essential Documents: Carry copies of your passport, travel insurance policy, and emergency contacts.
• Health and Safety Items: Pack medications, a first aid kit, and masks to protect against smoke inhalation.
• Communication Tools: Bring a fully charged power bank, flashlight, and a whistle.
• Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency exits and evacuation routes at your accommodation.

4. Maintain Flexibility in Travel Plans

• Rebook or Cancel with Providers: If your destination is affected by wildfires, contact airlines and hotels to discuss rebooking or cancellation options. Many providers offer flexibility during emergencies.
• Avoid Non-Essential Travel: If possible, postpone travel to high-risk areas until conditions improve.
• Consider Alternative Destinations: Explore other regions that are not affected by wildfires to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

5. Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

• Understand Airline Policies: Airlines may not compensate for delays or cancellations due to wildfires, as these are often considered extraordinary circumstances. However, they may assist with rebooking or providing accommodations.
• Tour Operator Responsibilities: If you’ve booked a package holiday, the tour operator is generally responsible for refunds or alternative arrangements if the trip is canceled due to wildfires.
• Independent Bookings: For self-arranged trips, contact each service provider directly to discuss cancellations or changes.

6. Health and Safety Precautions

• Avoid Affected Areas: Stay clear of regions currently experiencing wildfires. If you’re already in an affected area, follow evacuation orders promptly.
• Protect Against Smoke: Limit outdoor activities during high smoke conditions. Use N95 masks if available to reduce inhalation of harmful particles.
• Stay Hydrated and Cool: Drink plenty of water and stay indoors during peak heat hours to prevent heat-related illnesses.

7. Financial Considerations

• Keep Receipts: Retain all receipts for expenses incurred due to cancellations or delays, as these may be reimbursable through insurance claims.
• Understand Refund Policies: Be aware that some providers may offer vouchers instead of refunds. Review the terms and conditions before accepting.
• Consult with Insurance Providers: If unsure about coverage or claims, contact your insurance provider for clarification and guidance.

In July 2023, Rhodes witnessed several travel disruptions, prompting holiday companies such as Jet2 and Tui to cancel flights and package holidays. However, airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and British Airways maintained most flights, placing travelers who wished to cancel without official government warnings in a challenging situation.

According to the UK’s Foreign Office travel advice, travelers typically cannot claim insurance for cancellations unless official warnings against travel are issued. However, there are some exceptions. Certain insurers permit claims if the traveler can demonstrate that the wildfire or natural disaster significantly disrupted the planned holiday location, even without a formal travel advisory.

Refund Policies for Holidays Affected by Wildfires: A Comprehensive Guide

Wildfires can significantly disrupt travel plans, particularly in regions like Europe where such events have become more frequent. Understanding your rights and the available options can help minimize financial losses and ensure a smoother experience during such unforeseen circumstances.

1. Package Holidays: Refund Entitlements

• Cancellation by Tour Operator: If the tour operator cancels the holiday due to wildfires, travelers are entitled to a full refund.
• Cancellation by Traveler: Travelers may cancel without penalty if the destination is significantly affected by wildfires, making the trip unfeasible.
• Refund Timeline: Refunds for canceled package holidays must be processed within 14 days.

2. Flights: Compensation and Assistance

• EU Regulations: Under EU Regulation 261/2004, if a flight is canceled due to wildfires, passengers are entitled to a refund or rerouting.
• Extraordinary Circumstances: Airlines are not required to provide compensation for delays or cancellations caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as wildfires.
• Care and Assistance: Regardless of compensation eligibility, airlines must provide care, including meals, refreshments, and accommodation, during delays or cancellations.

3. Accommodations: Refund Policies

• Hotel Cancellations: If a hotel cancels a reservation due to wildfires, a full refund is typically provided.
• Traveler-Initiated Cancellations: Refund eligibility depends on the hotel’s cancellation policy and the specific circumstances of the wildfire.
• Vacation Rentals: Platforms like Vrbo may offer refunds if the property is in an affected area, but this varies by host and situation.

4. Travel Insurance: Coverage and Claims

• Trip Cancellation: Standard travel insurance policies may cover cancellations if a wildfire makes the destination uninhabitable.
• Trip Interruption: If a trip is cut short due to a wildfire, insurance may cover unused trip costs and additional transportation expenses.
• Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR): CFAR policies offer greater flexibility, allowing cancellations for reasons not typically covered, such as personal discomfort due to nearby wildfires.
• Documentation: To file a claim, retain all receipts and documentation related to the cancellation or interruption.

5. Credit Card Protections

• Travel Protections: Some credit cards offer travel protections that may cover cancellations due to wildfires.
• Policy Terms: Coverage varies by card issuer and specific card benefits.
• Claim Process: Contact the credit card issuer directly to understand the claims process and required documentation.

Travel specialists suggest that travelers immediately contact their airline, tour operator, and insurance provider to explore personalized solutions. Individual companies might provide bespoke arrangements like date changes, vouchers, or partial refunds, although these are not guaranteed.

The latest data from the European Commission indicates wildfires across Europe have burned more than 290,000 hectares this year, doubling the area affected in the same period last year. The growing scale of these fires underscores the importance of travel insurance coverage, yet surprisingly, around 25% of British travelers ventured abroad without any coverage in the past year, leaving them vulnerable in the face of emergencies.

For tourists with comprehensive travel insurance, the news is more reassuring. Typically, costs incurred due to evacuations, medical emergencies, and trip curtailment or cancellation resulting from wildfires will be covered under standard travel insurance policies. Specialists advise travelers to document all interactions with hotels, airlines, and local authorities to support future claims.

Travelers without insurance still have some recourse. If airlines or holiday providers cancel bookings, travelers are usually entitled to refunds directly from these companies. However, protection schemes like the UK’s ATOL primarily offer assistance only if a travel provider goes bankrupt. They do not cover cancellations, delays, or disruption caused by wildfires or other extraordinary events.

Under UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules, passengers affected by flight delays or cancellations departing from UK airports—or arriving in the EU via UK airlines—must be provided with basic care, including food, drinks, and accommodation when delays exceed specified durations. Although passengers can expect airlines to reschedule canceled flights without additional charges, compensation for wildfire-related delays or cancellations is generally not applicable since wildfires are categorized as extraordinary events.

Impact on Tourism and Business Travel:
The wildfires significantly affect tourism and business travel sectors, potentially causing economic repercussions for hotels, tour operators, and airlines due to booking cancellations and operational disruptions. Destinations heavily reliant on tourism, such as the Greek islands and parts of Turkey, could suffer longer-term impacts on their local economies, particularly small businesses and hospitality services.

Quick Tips for Travelers:

• Always verify official travel advice from your government’s foreign travel advisory website before making decisions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that specifically includes natural disaster coverage, preferably at booking time.
• Keep open communication with airlines and hotels; flexible rebooking policies might be available.
• Maintain detailed records of your travel documents, bookings, and interactions with companies for insurance claims.
• Register with your country’s embassy or consulate when traveling abroad to ensure assistance in emergencies.

Additionally, travelers should keep themselves informed via local news and official government websites on conditions and safety guidelines at their intended destinations.

For future trips, tourists should consider destinations less prone to extreme weather events, diversify holiday plans, or travel during off-peak seasons when wildfire risks are lower. Ensuring adequate preparation and awareness of insurance terms can provide peace of mind amid increasing uncertainties caused by climate-related disasters.

As the wildfire season continues, vigilance and careful planning will be essential for travelers visiting Europe’s picturesque but vulnerable regions. While enjoying a relaxing summer vacation is the goal for many, safety should always remain a top priority. In these challenging circumstances, well-informed tourists who proactively seek out the latest advice and understand their options will be best prepared to navigate any unexpected disruptions.