If you’re traveling on business to Asia this month don’t forget to read the fine print in your insurance policy.

As many of you would know, the now infamous ash clouds caused by the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in Iceland let many thousands of travelers stranded in airports around the world.

But not all were lucky enough to be traveling for a large company on a corporate card – a rising number of Australian small business are involved in the import/export business with frequent travel to and from our neighboring countries in Asia.

So it probably came as a shock to many travelers that Australian insurers moved quickly to announce that costs would not be covered as a result of the ash clouds – for example QBE.

So if you’re traveling this month, it pays to be aware that you may not always be covered and of course, to check out local news on your destination. According to volcanolive.com for example, there are two active volcano’s showing signs of unrest within Asia – Taal volcano in the Philippines and the Yasur volcano in Vanuatu. Sure, you might not be traveling to these specific countries, but as you know climate change has brought us many surprises of late (red dust anyone?).

How do you check? Have a look at the QBE Corporate Travel Policy as an example. Page 17 suggests that they will not pay for loss of travel deposits or additional expenses if travel plans are made after a warning in the mass media of strike, riot or bad weather – so somewhat of a grey area!

We would love to hear your travel stories and if you are traveling, have a great and successful trip!