Travel disruption insurance explained

Sometimes, no matter how well we plan, travel can throw us a curveball. But, when things don't go as expected, how can your travel insurance come to the rescue?

Introducing travel disruption cover! This handy feature of travel insurance policies can offer assistance when something disrupts your plans.

Read on to learn more about it—including how to check if your policy includes it and how to add it if it doesn't!

What is travel disruption insurance?

In short—travel disruption insurance is just a higher level of cancellation cover.

But, what does that mean exactly?

Well, most standard travel insurance policies include cancellation cover. This can cover you if you need to cancel your trip for an unexpected reason. For example, if you become ill or  are called up for jury duty.

The thing is, though, there's often some pretty strict limits on what you can claim for.

Common exclusions include:

• Terrorism
• Natural disasters
• Covid-19
• Airspace disruptions

If you want peace of mind knowing you're protected against these types of unforeseen events, you might like to consider travel disruption insurance. This higher level of coverage can fill in the gaps left by standard cancellation insurance.

When could travel disruption insurance come in useful?

Here's some examples of when travel disruption insurance could have your back:

If you have Transport issues

If you miss your flight or alternative transportation because of something unexpected, like a breakdown on the way to the airport, your travel disruption cover could help you claim compensation.

If there are airspace disruptions

If your flight is grounded because of a disruption such as airline strikes, your cover could help here too.

If there's extreme weather

If extreme weather causes cancellations and you aren't given a replacement flight, your cover could help here too.

If you experience long delays

If your flights are delayed for longer than a certain period of time, you may be able to claim here too.

If a natural diaster strikes

If an event like an earthquake or tsunami strikes your destination, your cover could help here too. Basic travel insurance policies typically won't include cover for natural disasters.

In the event of travel bans

If your destination becomes unsafe to visit because of things like war, terrorism or health risks, governments may impose travel bands. Your cover could help if this happens to you.

If you find yourself in any of these situations, travel disruption insurance can step in to offer protection. Now, let's dive into our next section to see what kind of coverage you could get!

What does travel disruption insurance cover?

Travel disruption insurance generally covers the following:

• Missed departure or connection: If you can't get to your flight because of illness, a car breakdown or airline strikes.
• Accommodation: If you’re stranded abroad because of travel disruptions and need to stay longer than you intended.
• Excursions: If you’re unable to complete your booked excursions because of a travel disruption.
• Car hire: If your pre-paid car hire goes unused. Or, if you need to extend your rental due to a travel disruption.
• Redundancy: If you experience redundancy in the lead-up to your trip and are then uable to afford it.
• Jury duty: If you're called up for jury duty or you've been summoned as a witness.
• Illness, injury or bereavement: If you or the person you're travelling with suffers any of these things unexpectedly. 

Keep in mind—compensation offered can vary between insurers. So, it’s worth checking your policy details so you know what cover you have.

Top tip: If your policy doesn't offer the level of cover you'd like, you can always reach out directly to your travel insurance provider for assistance. They'll gladly give you a helping hand.

How do I know if my policy includes travel disruption insurance?

Wondering if your policy includes travel disruption insurance? It's easier to check than you might think!

Start by taking a look at policy documents. When you're comparing quotes, click 'More info' next to the one that catches your eye. There should be a link to the insurer's policy documents, which will show exactly what's covered.

If travel disruption isn't included, don't worry! Just get in touch with the insurer and ask if they can add it to your policy. It's also a good idea to ask how much it'll cost, so you know exactly what you'll need to pay.

How do I add travel disruption cover to my travel insurance policy?

Adding travel disruption to your policy is easy peasy!

Here's how you can get it:

• Click ‘get a quote’: Then, enter your details and tell us where you’re going.
• Compare quotes: We’ll show you the best prices we can find for you.
• Pick your policy: Choose the policy that best suits your needs, and your budget.
• Ask to add on cover: Contact your chosen insurer and ask about adding travel disruption cover.

Head’s up: You’ll likely need to pay to add travel disruption to your policy. But, it could be worth it for the added peace of mind.

Is there anything travel disruption insurance won’t cover?

Yes, there’s a few situations where travel disruption insurance won't cover you. It's good to know about them in advance so you're not caught off guard:

• Being unable to provide evidence: You’ll need to give your insurer evidence of the disruption. If you can't do this, they probably won't accept your claim.
• Not enjoying yourself: If bad weather or something else impacts the fun of your trip, but doesn't actually disrupt your plans. In this type of situation, travel disruption insurance won't cover you.
• Poor time management: If you miss your flight, train or ferry because you didn't leave enough time, this insurance may not cover it. It's best to always give yourself a little extra time, just in case you need it!
• Airport delays: If you miss your flight because of long queues at security or customs, travel disruption your insurer won't reimburse you.
• Known events: If there was public knowledge of something like an airline strike or storm when you bought your policy, any delays or disruptions caused by that won't be covered. So, it's always a good idea to check for potential issues before you purchase your insurance.
• Recoverable costs: If you're able to get your money back through other means, like your credit card provider, your travel disruption insurance won't step in.
• Ash clouds caused by volcanic eruptions: Some providers may not pay out for disruptions caused by volcanic ash clouds. If this is something you're worried about, contact your provider to ask to be covered for it.