As temperatures continue to soar across Europe, reaching around 45C in some parts, many Brits are considering cancelling their holiday plans to countries affected by the heatwave. 

The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for countries including Spain and Greece to warn travellers about the extreme weather conditions currently affecting Europe.

This includes the chance of forest fires.

For many people 40C plus is far too extreme and some may be reconsidering whether to go on planned holidays to some European countries. 

But having paid all the money, it can be a tough decision especially if you are not sure what you may or may not get back if you do decide to pull out of your trip. 

To put your mind at ease, we have pulled together travel advice on what your rights are should you decide to not go on holiday.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my holiday due to the European heatwave? 

Money Saving Expert (MSE), founded by Martin Lewis, said significant events such as extreme weather, natural disasters, or terrorism can sometimes lead to the Foreign Office warning against all but essential travel to affected areas or leave you unable to travel.

In these circumstances often airlines or transport companies offer refunds or alternative arrangements to passengers, MSE said. 

While the Foreign Office has issued travel advice, it has not warned people off flying to European countries because of the heatwave at this stage. 

So if you are cancelling your holiday because you have simply changed your mind and don't fancy tackling the hot weather MSE said you'll need to check the terms and conditions that you accepted when you booked as to whether or not you'll be able to get a refund. 

MSE said: "You'll need to check the terms and conditions that you accepted when you booked – holiday firms don't give the same generous policies to return something that clothing and other retailers do.

"You need to be certain before you book that it's what you want."

Bournemouth Echo: Money Saving Expert said holiday packages are rarely refundable.Money Saving Expert said holiday packages are rarely refundable. (Image: AP)

Cancelling holiday packages

MSE said a holiday package is "rarely refundable". 

It added: "At the very least you'll probably lose any deposit you've already paid.

"And the closer you get to travel, or if the contract states you still have to pay the full amount, the more you could lose."

Cancelling a booked flight, hotel or car hire

Whether or not you can get a refund on things like flights and hotels will depend on the type of ticket or room you've booked. 

MSE said, especially with the cheapest of those options, most airlines and hotels are very unlikely to give refunds, but you could try for a goodwill gesture. 

It added: "Some exceptions apply, eg, you can pay £35 to cancel a booking made using Avios loyalty points.

"Also some airlines – eg, American Airlines and Virgin Atlantic – may allow you to cancel free of charge within 24 hours, though you're less likely to need to in that timeframe."

MSE added: "If you booked a fully flexible ticket or room you're usually able to cancel free of charge."

Car hire is very much the same, it all comes down to the type of booking.

Knowing your rights can make all the difference

Programme and Student Lead at The University of Law Moorgate, Karen Watts, added knowing your legal rights can make all the difference.  

Karen explains: “It’s worrying that so many people either don’t read or don’t understand the T&Cs when they book a service.

"When booking flights or a package holiday, you’re entering a contract with the provider that often leaves you legally bound to that contract’s terms.

"Knowing your rights before you jet off will most definitely help you should things not go to plan during your getaway.”