Can travelers cancel packages if their destination is affected by fire?

As wildfires rage across Serbia, the region, and Europe during the peak summer tourist season, many travelers are questioning their ability to cancel vacation packages if a fire occurs near their chosen destination. Aleksandar Seničić, director of the National Association of Tourist Agencies (YUTA), explained that the possibility of cancellation hinges on whether local authorities have declared a state of emergency and if the safety of travelers is genuinely at risk. If no emergency is declared and the destination remains accessible without compromising traveler safety, cancellations are subject to the general terms and conditions of travel. In such cases, Seničić noted, travelers often incur penalties based on how close the departure date is. However, the situation changes significantly if an emergency is declared. In that scenario, Seničić stated, travelers could be eligible for a refund from their travel agency. He advised travelers to stay in contact with their agencies to assess the safety of their destination and explore options for changing their travel plans if they feel unsafe. If a fire breaks out shortly before a trip or an accommodation like an apartment is destroyed, agencies will seek alternative lodging where possible, expecting traveler cooperation and rationality. For those already at a destination where a fire escalates or approaches, travel agencies must follow local authorities' directives, including evacuation orders. Agencies are obligated to assist in such situations and organize safe returns in coordination with local government.

“

If a state of emergency has not been declared at the local level, if it is possible to reach the destination, if the facilities are not threatened, or if the safety of passengers is not threatened, then cancellation is in accordance with the general terms of travel.