The summer months not only bring the longed-for holiday season, but also often extremely high temperatures and dryness, which in many places lead to devastating forest fires. Popular holiday regions such as Croatia and Greece are particularly affected at the moment. But what does this mean for travelers who are about to travel to these areas? A free cancellation of the package holiday may be possible under certain circumstances, as ÖAMTC lawyer Martin Hoffer explains.

If forest fires or other natural disasters significantly affect the implementation of a package holiday or make it impossible, travelers can cancel their trip free of charge. This applies regardless of whether the Foreign Ministry has issued a travel warning or not. "However, a free cancellation is only possible if the start of the holiday and the dangerous situation are close together in time and the planned trip leads to the exact affected region," says Hoffer. For example, a forest fire on the Greek mainland would not automatically affect a trip to a Greek island.

Preparation and reaction shortly before departure

For travelers whose vacation is imminent, it is advisable to work closely with the tour operator to find possible alternatives. If the lead time is longer, such as two weeks, patience is required, as the situation on site can still change. Regular information about the current situation is crucial here.

Individual travelers who have booked their flights and accommodation separately have a harder time in such situations. A free cancellation of the flight is usually only possible if the airport area is directly affected by the natural disaster or if landing is made impossible. Whether a cancellation of the accommodation is possible, however, depends on the respective country's law.

Current information and precautionary measures

The ÖAMTC travel radar offers www.oeamtc.at/reiseradar comprehensive information on current travel-relevant events, including wildfires and extreme heat. This platform is a valuable resource for travelers to stay informed about the current situation and take appropriate action.

If a natural disaster occurs during the vacation and the trip has to be canceled early, the tour operator of a package tour is obliged to organize the return transport and to cover the costs. In addition, a price reduction and reimbursement of part of the travel costs are possible. For individual trips, travelers should consult their travel cancellation or trip interruption insurance to clarify whether a free cancellation of the trip is covered.

Assistance services in the event of an airport closure

If a return journey is not possible due to an airport closure and travellers are stranded in the holiday destination, airlines or travel companies are obliged to provide care services. These include, for example, the cost of meals and any necessary hotel stays. Package tour operators must usually cover such costs for a maximum of three nights. In such situations, it is advisable to contact the airline or tour operator immediately to coordinate the necessary measures.

Given the increasing frequency of natural disasters such as forest fires, it is more important than ever for travelers to be well informed and prepared. The legal framework offers protection and options for canceling or adjusting trips, but active communication with tour operators and insurance companies is crucial. Using information services such as the ÖAMTC Travel Radar can help you stay up to date and make appropriate decisions to ensure safety and well-being on vacation.