Wildfires are currently affecting large areas of Spain and France, prompting questions from holidaymakers about their ability to cancel trips and receive refunds. According to holiday advice, most standard insurance policies do not cover cancellations unless the Foreign Office advises against travel to the destination, or if a traveling companion experiences a serious illness or bereavement. Situations where travelers choose not to go due to perceived risk, without official travel advisories, are typically classified as a 'disinclination to travel,' which generally does not result in a refund.
As of late July 2026, neither Spain nor France have been officially designated as unsafe for travel by the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), despite the ongoing wildfires. Temperatures have reached as high as 45C (113F) in parts of southern Spain, and significant wildfires have been reported near Bordeaux and in other areas of France's Gironde region.
Package Holidays and Wildfire Damage
For those who have booked package holidays, the Package Travel Regulations (2018) provide specific protections. If a wildfire damages a booked hotel, the tour operator is obligated to offer alternative accommodation of comparable quality, a different destination, or a full refund. This is a key distinction from booking flights and accommodation separately.
When travel arrangements are booked independently, securing changes or refunds becomes more challenging and typically depends on the policies of individual airlines and hotels.
Travel Insurance and Disruption
Travel insurance policies may offer coverage if travelers are already on holiday and are forced to relocate due to wildfires, such as evacuating a threatened hotel or villa. However, this type of coverage is not standard and often requires an additional purchase as an 'add-on.' Some policies do provide coverage for expenses incurred during such disruptions and for damage to personal belongings.
Navigating Extreme Heat
Holidaymakers in affected regions are advised to take precautions against the heat. Recommendations include utilizing establishments with cooling systems, ensuring accommodation has air conditioning, staying hydrated by carrying water, using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and four-star UVA protection, and reapplying it frequently. Sun protection measures should include wearing wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses. Early starts for sightseeing or shopping, followed by a midday rest, and later evening meals are also suggested. Carrying a fan, either manual or battery-powered, can provide relief. It is also advised to stay informed about local news reports for any developing wildfire situations in the vicinity.