Travel Insurance - Adverse Weather

[Tumbler]

Having checked a couple of policies online, I am none the wiser.

Due to go on holiday shortly, but it looks like the weather may cause us a few problems, if it's as bad as it's now being suggested then some of the roads on the route maybe closed.

I have a 'free' policy via my bank account which states I can claim if I have to cancel due to a storm/flood at my home address, but if I cancel due to adverse weather conditions I am not covered. All the policies I have looked at online make no specific mention of being able to make a claim if you cancel due to being unable to travel by car due to the weather and road closures.

So how is the best way to find a policy which will cover me if I need to cancel due to the weather?

[dmitsi]

It's a very tricky area, there are many types of cancellation that could come into play. Missed connections, travel delay (missed connections/grounded planes. Check you are covered for accom/meals), flight cancellation (carriers shutdown)...

The problems arise for people who take out the insurance now, when the bad weather is forecast. Essentially it's unlikely they'll be covered. You have an ongoing policy, so you coverage should be valid. If they're stating cancellation due to adverse weather isn't covered, I'd suggest you speak to someone senior there for some clarification. Quite often a free policy will not cover bad weather or natural disaster issues. However do ask for a policy and clarification. It could be the policy doesn't cover curtailment of holiday whilst out there due to weather.

You need to know the position if you're at the airport and checked-in, but the carrier cancels.
It's treated differently if you miss check-in due to a problem on the roads/trains.

The big difference is between you cancelling or the carrier cancelling. You cancelling; it's unlikely you'll get paid (in reference to this discussion). The carrier cancels and it's a lot more likely you'll see your money again, especially if checked in.

Which bank is the policy with, and if say Lloyds, what level of cover, e.g. silver/gold etc.

[Tumbler]

It's a UK holiday, so no flights involved, my problem will be road closures. I will try and call the provider Nationwide tomorrow.

[dmitsi]

Definitely speak to someone there, but if you're unhappy with the response, speak to someone senior for clarification. Not everyone knows all the ins and outs. Coverage when travelling in the UK varies massively by provider. Expenses such as hotels/accom will be covered, but the burden of proof becomes harder. If they're stating they won't cover due to the weather, speak to whoever is providing your accom asap for their cancellation policy to minimise your loss.

Hope it works out and you don't need to claim. Travel insurance has more get out clauses than you'd think.
Popular policy wording: 'Not covered for anything not specifically mentioned in this policy'

Good luck, hope you get away.