With the outbreak of swine flu likely to cause problems for holidaymakers, it's essential you read the fine print of your
travel insurance policy to ensure you're still protected.
Travellers to Mexico who purchased their cover after the Foreign Commonwealth Office (FCO) advised against non essential travel to the area have already been warned that their policy may not be valid.
UK holiday operators Thomson and First Choice have also cancelled all flights to the country until 8 May.
Confused.com says that, as the cancellation of travel arrangements is down to the FCO advising against non essential travel to an area, travel costs will be refunded by the tour operator.
For those who have booked flights and holidays through independent companies, customers need to contact the provider first.
Other countries could be affected
At present, much of the focus is on Mexico, but it's impossible to predict where else might be affected and it is strongly recommended travellers purchase an
insurance policy wherever they are headed.
According to the British Insurance Brokers' Association (BIBA), insurance providers are likely to pay out if a holiday is cancelled after the official advice has been not to go to affected countries.
“If tour operators or travel agents arrange an alternative destination, the existing travel insurance policy should normally cover the new destination instead, but travellers should check this with their
insurance broker,” says BIBA.
The group adds that, in the off chance that someone does contract swine flu, their policy should pay for their treatment as well.
Contact provider if uncertain
For people who risk travelling with no cover, this serious situation should demonstrate how important insurance is should you be taken ill when away, or are prevented from going at all, says Confused.com travel insurance head Steve Williams.
“
Travel insurance can cost as little as £1.79 per day, which makes chancing it a silly risk to take for such a minimal expense.”
As a final point, anyone who paid for their holiday by credit card should be able to make a claim through their card provider if it is cancelled.
