UK Couple Loses £1,000 on Sri Lanka Holiday After Iran Conflict Cancels Flight

A couple from Northallerton in North Yorkshire lost £1,000 after their return flight from Sri Lanka was cancelled due to the Iran conflict.

Debbie and Ardon Rainbird got stuck for an extra two weeks during their holiday. Their flight through Doha, the Qatari capital, was scrapped when the conflict broke out. They held an annual travel insurance policy that did not cover war-related losses. Their tour operator covered some extra nights, after which the couple moved to a budget hotel. An add-on policy would have covered the cost.

"It is frustrating because you budget for a holiday," Debbie said. "But we were incredibly lucky compared with others."

Insurance costs have stayed about the same, but holidaymakers now have fewer travel insurance options for areas in or near the Middle East conflict, according to analysts at Defaqto.

Travel insurance experts outline five key questions to ask before booking a summer holiday.

What am I covered for - and what am I not?

Insurance is invalid for destinations where the Foreign Office advises against travel, such as all trips to Iran right now. "It is always worthwhile checking the policy details though or speaking with the provider as the policy may include some travel disruption coverage which could extend to civil unrest or airspace closures," said Anna-Marie Duthie, travel insurance expert at Defaqto.

While some policies cover disruption and cancellation costs, the largest expense is usually emergency medical treatment abroad.

Will I be covered if a jet fuel shortage affects my holiday?

Airlines must provide alternative flights or refunds for cancellations due to operational issues like jet fuel shortages, said the Association of British Insurers (ABI). Credit card bookings allow claims through the card provider for unused services such as accommodation.

Travel insurance might cover some non-refundable costs if booked separately, but only if the policy includes cancellation cover and the cause is listed. Geopolitical issues often fall outside coverage, Defaqto said.

Am I still covered if I change destination?

Switching regions, say from Europe to the US, requires notifying the insurer, which could add a charge.

What if I don't want to go away at all anymore?

If the Foreign Office later deems a booked destination unsafe, travelers should not go and can claim on insurance. But if advice says it is safe and travelers simply change their mind - known as disinclination - there is no cover. Experts recommend contacting the provider to switch destinations or dates, though that depends on availability and may cost extra.

Does it matter when I buy my insurance policy?

Consumer experts and the ABI advise buying travel insurance right after booking a trip. That ensures coverage if the trip must be cancelled, for instance due to illness in the party.