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Date Published: 19/07/2023

How to cope on holidays during a Spanish heatwave

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Spain is now frrequently experiencing temperatures up to 40ºC during the summer

How to cope on holidays during a Spanish heatwave

Let's face it, most of us jet off from our dreary climates for one thing, and one thing only: the sun. But balmy mid-summer temperatures and the extremes of a heatwave are two very different beasts, as so many holidaymakers are finding out in sweltering Spain in recent times.

Regardless of this, people can still enjoy a perfectly relaxing break away during a heatwave with a few simple tips and tricks.

Is it dangerous to holiday during a heatwave?

The UK press has been full of warnings for tourists thinking of travelling to Spain and further afield in the midst of such high temperatures but the reality is that everything is continuing on pretty much as normal in most holiday resorts.

If in doubt, check the Foreign Office's website for any travel warnings (there are none at the moment) and follow a few precautions, such as making sure you have a valid Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in case you need medical attention for any reason.

Can I cancel my holiday because of a heatwave?

Of course, it's your choice if you'd rather reschedule a trip for a cooler period but in most cases, you won’t be entitled to a refund. Most insurance policies simply don't cover a "disinclination to travel," according to consumer rights expert Martyn James, although those already abroad whose health is suffering because of the heat might have a chance at a partial refund under a ‘curtailment’ clause.

"As soon as official guidance says it is dangerous to travel, that is when the 'curtailment' clauses for refunds kick in," he said.

Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, said: "If you have a medical condition that makes you particularly vulnerable to the heat and is covered under your travel insurance policy, you might be able to make a cancellation claim on this basis, but it would help your case to have a medical professional's opinion about your fitness to travel."

Mr James added: "It would be much more preferable to the insurer to cover the cost of a holiday, rather than pay huge hospital bills should you fall ill once you travel."

What happens if my holiday is cancelled?

In general, consumers are better protected when they book through a tour operator, and in most cases a full refund will be offered. On the other hand, if pre-paid activities or events "are cancelled because of the heatwave while you're on holiday and you can't recoup your money from the providers, you may also be able to claim for these costs from some insurers," Mr Boland advised.

Should I change my holiday plans during a heatwave?

In Spain, physical activity and outdoor exercise is not recommended during a heatwave so it might be an idea to cancel any strenuous excursions you've booked. Holidaymakers should always load up on a high factor sunblock, avoid alcohol and stay hydrated.

Click here to find out the symptoms of heatstroke and learn how to prevent it.

Image: Freepik

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