If you’re planning a trip to Lanzarote and have been affected by the recent flooding, you might be wondering if your travel insurance policy can provide you with some much-needed financial assistance. The answer lies in understanding the terms and conditions of your policy, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding your trip.
What to Look Out For in Your Travel Insurance Policy
When reviewing your policy, make sure to check the following key areas:
* **Cancellation and Curtailment**: This section should outline what you can claim for in the event of extreme weather, such as flooding. * **Natural Disasters**: Check if your policy covers natural disasters, such as flooding, and what the specific terms and conditions are. * **Forecasting and Anticipation**: Be aware that your policy may not cover you if you knew the weather was going to be bad and booked your trip anyway.
| Policy Type | Example Coverage |
|---|---|
| Cancellation and Curtailment | Reimbursement for flights, accommodation, and activities |
| Travel Insurance | Reimbursement for evacuation, food and drink, and alternative travel arrangements |
Understanding the FCDO Travel Advisory
The Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issued a travel advisory on April 13, advising travelers to comply with local authorities’ guidance. This advisory can affect your travel plans and entitlement to claim on your travel insurance policy.
FCDO Travel Advisory Categories
- Advice against all travel
- Advice against all but essential travel
- Advice to exercise caution
Can I Get a Refund if I Cancel My Holiday Due to the Floods?
If you’ve taken out your travel insurance and are now considering canceling your holiday due to the flooding, you may be entitled to some money back. However, this depends on your policy and the specific circumstances surrounding your trip.
Factors That Affect Refund Eligibility
* **Policy Terms and Conditions**: Check if your policy covers flooding and what the specific terms and conditions are. * **Forecasting and Anticipation**: If you knew the weather was going to be bad and booked your trip anyway, you may not be eligible for a refund. * **Package Holidays vs Independent Holidays**: If you’ve booked your holiday with a package provider, you may be eligible for reimbursement for flights, accommodation, and activities. However, if you’ve booked independently, things can get tricky.
Evacuations and Alternative Travel Arrangements
If you’re caught in the unexpected event of flooding, your travel insurance policy should cover you for evacuation, food and drink, and alternative travel arrangements.
What to Claim For
- Evacuation costs
- Food and drink expenses
- Alternative travel arrangements
Conclusion
Weathering the storm of flooding in Lanzarote can be a challenging experience, but understanding your travel insurance rights can help you navigate the situation. By reviewing your policy, understanding the FCDO travel advisory, and knowing what to claim for, you can ensure you get the financial assistance you need to get back on your feet.
