Travelling during wildfires: What holidaymakers should know

Wildfires have become an increasingly common sight during the summer months, particularly across southern Europe and parts of North America. While dramatic images often make the headlines, they don't always tell the full story.

In many cases, wildfires affect relatively small areas, while airports, hotels and popular resorts nearby continue operating as normal. That's why it's important to rely on official travel advice rather than social media or news reports alone.

If you're travelling this summer, here's what you need to know before you go, what to do if your plans are disrupted and how to stay informed while you're away.

Should you still travel if wildfires have been reported?

Usually, yes. Wildfires don't automatically mean you need to cancel your holiday. Unless local authorities, your airline, tour operator or Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) advise against travelling, most holidays continue as planned.

If you're unsure, check the latest travel advice before you leave and contact your airline or accommodation provider if you have concerns about your specific destination.

It's also worth remembering that conditions can change quickly. A fire affecting one part of a country may have little or no impact on another.

How could wildfires affect your holiday?

Every situation is different, but wildfires can occasionally cause disruption, particularly if they're close to transport routes or tourist accommodation.

You could experience:

• Flight delays or cancellations
• Road closures
• Changes to excursions or outdoor activities
• Temporary evacuations in affected areas
• Poor air quality caused by smoke

Many of these disruptions are temporary, and local authorities work hard to minimise the impact on visitors wherever possible.

Where are wildfires happening?

Wildfires can occur in many parts of the world, but during the summer they're most commonly reported in destinations such as:

• Spain
• Portugal
• Greece
• Italy, including Sicily and Sardinia
• France
• Canada
• The United States

The situation can change from week to week, so always check the latest local advice before you travel.

What happens if your flight is cancelled?

If your flight can't operate because of wildfire disruption, your airline should be your first point of contact.

Depending on the circumstances, they'll normally offer to:

• Rebook your journey
• Provide a refund
• Offer a travel voucher

If you're left waiting for another flight, airlines may also have responsibilities to provide meals, accommodation or transport where appropriate.

If you need to pay for reasonable expenses yourself, keep your receipts in case you're entitled to reimbursement.

How can travel insurance help?

Travel insurance may be able to help if your trip is disrupted by a wildfire, but what you're covered for depends on your policy and the circumstances.

If you've added Natural Disaster Cover to your JustCover policy, you may be covered if your holiday is disrupted by a wildfire or other natural disaster, provided the event meets the policy conditions. This can include situations where you're unable to reach your booked accommodation, you're forced to leave it, or your trip is cancelled before departure because of the natural disaster.

Your airline or tour operator should always be your first point of contact if your travel plans change, as they may offer a refund, rebooking or alternative arrangements.

If you're unsure what your policy includes, get in touch with our team before making any changes to your travel plans. We'll explain your cover and answer any questions you may have.

Can you cancel because of wildfires?

It depends on the circumstances.

If official advice recommends against travelling to your destination or your travel provider cancels your trip, you'll normally be contacted with your available options.

However, deciding not to travel because you're worried about reports of wildfires, when your trip is still able to go ahead, is generally known as disinclination to travel and isn't covered under your policy.

Before cancelling, we recommend:

• Checking the latest DFA travel advice
• Contacting your airline or tour operator
• Speaking to your accommodation provider
• Contacting JustCover if you have questions about your policy

Useful travel information

Before you travel, it's worth saving a few useful contacts.

Department of Foreign Affairs

The DFA provides the latest travel advice, safety updates and destination information.

https://www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/overseas-travel/

Your airline or tour operator

Check their website or app regularly for updates on delays, cancellations and travel arrangements.

If you're already abroad

If you're in immediate danger, contact the local emergency services straight away.

If you need consular support, you can also contact your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate.

https://www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/embassies/

JustCover customers

If you need emergency medical assistance while you're abroad, contact the Emergency Medical Assistance team as soon as it's safe to do so. You'll find the contact details in your policy documents.

If your plans have changed and you have questions about your cover, our Customer Service team will be happy to help.

Travel informed, travel prepared

Wildfires can understandably cause concern, but they don't always mean your holiday won't go ahead. In many cases, disruption is limited to a relatively small area while the rest of the destination continues to welcome visitors.

The best way to prepare is to stay informed, follow official travel advice and make sure you understand your travel insurance before you leave. That way, if your plans do change unexpectedly, you'll know where to turn for support.