Why Bali tourists should check insurance cover amid flight cancellations due to volcano ash cloud

Holidaymakers heading to Bali this week will want to double-check their travel insurance.

Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia have grounded flights amid safety concerns over a dangerous ash cloud sparked by volcanic explosions east of the holiday island.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Volcanic ash cloud over Bali triggers travel chaos.

This means that plane-loads of tourists have been unable to reach or depart the region.

Experts say it could be an important time for those stranded at airports in Australia to reassess their travel plans and ensure they have an appropriate level of insurance.

Compare the Market travel insurance spokesman Adrian Taylor said heading overseas without adequate cover means running the risk of major out-of-pocket expenses for medical bills and emergencies if something goes wrong.

“Natural disasters can quickly become a ‘known event’ to insurers, which is why taking out cover as soon as you book your travel is vital,” Taylor said.

“Insurers won’t provide cover for events that aren’t considered unforeseen or unexpected.”

Taylor said some insurers require customers to add cover for natural disasters as an extra “or splash a bit more cash for a top-level policy where it’s already an inclusion”.

“Also be aware that there may be limits on what you’ll be able to claim back through insurance,” he said.

“You may want to increase your cover if you’re travelling to a higher-risk area but the claimable limit on a disaster is small.”

Jetstar has grounded all flights to and from Denpasar Airport until at least 12pm on Thursday, while Virgin and Qantas are monitoring the situation.

Smartraveller’s advice for customers impacted by cancellations is to contact your airline or insurer for alternative arrangements.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki on the remote island of Flores has spewed ash kilometres into the air.

At least nine people have been killed and 15,000 locals near the crater have been evacuated.