A travel insurance expert has stressed the importance of taking out the best travel insurance policy after the eruption of the Grimsvotn volcano in Iceland has sparked fears of further widespread problems across Europe.
Last year when the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in Iceland erupted it caused huge problems for the travel industry, postponing approximately 10,000 flights in the process. A lot of travellers were left stranded in the airports due to the resulting ash cloud, while other holidaymakers had to use different forms of transport just to get home. On top of this some had to spend more money on extra accommodation and extra flights.
A little over 12 months later and the happenings of Grimsvotn have been closely tracked since it started exploding at the end of May. Originally sections of British airspace were closed though these were reopened later on.
Whilst the disruption of the Grimsvotn volcano has been minimal when compared to the 2010 eruption, Bob Atkinson of moneysupermarket still believes it offers an important reminder for those planning a getaway to make sure they get adequate travel insurance. With policies starting from as little as 3 on price comparison sites, it seems expense is no longer an excuse for not getting cover.
“As news of the Icelandic volcano eruption hits, with it brings the same travel uncertainty as we experienced in April 2010,” said Atkinson.
Furthering with: “If you are travelling as part of an ATOL covered package, your tour operator will be able to advise on your total travel plans. It is the responsibility of the tour operator to cover all costs should air space be disrupted. Those travellers still in the UK are entitled to refunds or transfers, and for those stranded overseas will be kept in accommodation at the expense of the tour operator.”
Detailing further he urged travellers to contact the various travel companies involved: “If you have independent arrangements then you need to speak to your airline as well as hotel companies and any others you have bookings with to check your options for cancellation, refunds and changes. Check your travel insurance policy, look for natural disaster and weather related clauses and understand what is covered in the policy. This will cover for things such as loss of travel arrangements, cost of new travel arrangements and travel delay.”
Closing with “Should airspace actually close, travellers are urged not to do anything without speaking to their airline or tour operator first, checking their website for further information.”
For more details including worldwide travel insurance visit Moneysupermarket.com.
