Insurance: Travel disruptions and insurance

By John Grant Weather disruptions to travel can and do happen, so if you have travel insurance, then what can you claim on? If you don't, then some of the following suggestions may help in making the best out of a bad situation. If you are unlucky enough to be hit by a major storm, you might very well want to cut your trip short because of things like power outages, closure of amenities, shortage of food supplies and your accomodation being swept away. However, if there are several hundred travelers feeling the same way it will be highly unlikely that the airlines will be able to cater for everyone immediately. You may have to grin and bear some of the discomforts until you can get on that plane home. Travel insurance is designed to cater for these situations and while each policy is a little different, you can expect to be reimbursed for costs arising from having to cut short your holiday with the major one any additional expenses associated with getting home on flights other than those on your pre-arranged schedule. You can also expect to be reimbursed for any other expenses related to the disruption to your plans. For example, additional accommodation and food costs are all valid expenses you could claim. While your financial losses may be covered, the discomfort of the situation is something you will just have to live with. That said, nothing can make up for the frustration of the travel delays and so the following tips may be of help;

1. The first rule is, don't panic. Most things can be sorted with time and a little patience. If the delay is going to be substantial then you need to regroup and evaluate any options available to you. Language barriers can be an issue, so find someone who you are able to clearly communicate with.
2. Some travelers carry lounge access cards and if not, around $15 can get you access to a private lounge with showers, food and refreshment - check out the airlines requirements for access to the lounges.  If this is not an option find a location near enough to the service desk but far enough away not to be overflowing with other passengers, one preferably with an electrical outlet for your laptop or charging a mobile phone. Grab some space for you, your traveling party and your belongings and make camp. If you are on your own, find another passenger or two in the same boat and group together, this will give you a sense of community and also ensure your belongings are looked after on food or toilet breaks.
3. If the delay is due to the weather you may be looking at camping out in the airport or getting a room, so check with the airport information desk about expected closures and weather delays. Rooms close to the airport may be expensive but may still go quickly, so you may need to make some fast decisions.
4. If it is only going to be a short delay, you will still need food and drink, and smaller airports tend to shut their restaurants and shops early - so be sure to stock up with necessities in advance. If you don’t have access to a mobile telephone, buy a calling card if you need to make travel arrangements. Running out of change as the pips go is a stress you won't need.
5. If traveling with children then make sure you are equipped with games and books (and sit next to the nearest Labour MP). Laptops and DVD’s are a great help in passing the time and nothing keeps a child silent like an mp3 player. Seach out internet access to help planning, not to mention keeping the kids occupied.
6. Pack a small blanket in your carry-on bag if possible, they are light and can help ward off the chill if you are stuck in a less than comfortable environment.
7. If you have travel insurance then some of these costs will be reimbursable, aside from this be polite but firm to your airline agent and be flexible, they may offer an alternative flight to a nearby airport and bus or other transportation.