Does your travel insurance cover volcanic eruptions?

Lava from Kilauea volcano entering ocean, Big Island, HI

Following the news of Hawaii’s volcanic eruption this month, many travellers are probably wondering whether their travel insurance covers them against interruptions or delays caused by this kind of natural disaster.

And if they’re not, they should be.

We had a chat with finder.com.au‘s travel insurance expert, Bessie Hassan to answer all your travel insurance queries.

Are flights likely to be cancelled in and out of Hawaii, and how will this affect travellers?

According to a release from the island of Hawai’i visitors bureau, there is absolutely no reason at this time for travellers to change or alter their leisure or business plans.

so far, all flights into Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole – KOA (west) and Hilo International Airport – ITO (east) are operating normally.

“Keep an ear to the ground for announcements from your airline and go from there,” said Hassan.

“Some airlines such as Hawaiian Airlines have even offered alternative travel dates in the case that flights may be affected.”

What can impacted travellers do to receive compensation for interrupted holidays?

According to Hassan, impacted travellers should contact their insurers for clarity on whether they’ll still be providing cover for any interruptions to flights or bookings.

The visitor’s bureau said that all accommodations, activities and attractions on the island are also operating normally, with the exception of those in the area affected by the lava activity.

County of Hawai’i Civil Defense Agency has directed all vacation rental owners and operators in Lower Puna to cease operations so that emergency operations can focus on residents who live in the area.

Current vacation renters in this restricted area should find alternative accommodations outside the restricted area as soon as possible. Until further notice, visitors who have vacation rental reservations in the restricted area should find alternative accommodations.

As a precautionary measure, most of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park has been closed until further notice. Only the Park’s Kahuku Unit is open during its normal hours, Friday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For Park updates, go here.

“If your holiday is affected by the eruption, retain proof of purchase for any expenses and provide as much information as possible to your insurer,” said Hassan.

Does travel insurance cover volcano eruptions?

Hassan said travellers who took out their insurance policy before the eruption was a known event should be able to claim for interruptions and delays caused by the volcano.

“The best thing to do is to check the inclusions of your policy, check the date you took it out, and contact your insurer for clarity.”

Is it too late to take out insurance?

“Typically, once a natural disaster is a known event it’s too late to take out insurance,” said Hassan.

“However, this can differ between brands so contact your provider directly to find out further information.”

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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