Travel Insurance for California Wildfire Season

California’s sun-drenched beaches, epic national parks, and vibrant cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco make it a dream destination for millions. But if you’re planning a trip to the Golden State, it’s important to be aware of one growing risk: wildfires. With fire season stretching from late spring into the fall—and often peaking between July and October—having a backup plan is critical.

That’s where Generali Global Assistance comes in.
We’re committed to helping travelers stay safe, informed, and protected when wildfires disrupt their plans. Here’s how we can help:

Explaining California Wildfire Season

Wildfires in California can happen at any time, but the risk increases significantly during dry, hot months when vegetation becomes highly flammable or when other high-risk conditions come into place such as:

Peak wildfire season: July through October
High-risk areas: Los Angeles County, Ventura, San Bernardino, and the forested regions of Northern California
Common causes: Lightning, power lines, campfires, and high winds (like the Santa Ana winds)

Why You Should Help Protect Your California Vacation

Wildfires in California are becoming more frequent and intense. Having a travel protection plan from Generali Global Assistance provides peace of mind so that you’re not alone when a natural disaster strikes.

According to our most recent Travel Survey, travelers top concerns include being stranded and being unable to return home, and concerns over natural disasters impacting a vacation has risen 41% compared to last year.

Recent Fires of Note That Have Caused Major Damage

California continues to experience powerful wildfires that impact both residents and travelers. Here are a few major fires from the past three years that have caused significant damage:

Mosquito Fire (2022) – El Dorado, Placer county

The Mosquito Fire was the largest wildfire in California for 2022, burning over 76,000 acres across Placer and El Dorado Counties.
Travel Impact:

Smoke drifted into Lake Tahoe and Reno, causing poor air quality alerts.
Hiking trails and parts of Tahoe National Forest were closed to visitors.

Fairview Fire (2022) – Riverside County

Near Hemet in Southern California, the Fairview Fire quickly spread through residential areas, burning over 28,000 acres.
Travel Impact:

Temporary highway closures disrupted regional travel.
Power outages and evacuation orders affected hotel stays and local tourism.

Smith River Complex Fire (2023) – Northern California

This large group of fires near the Oregon border burned more than 95,000 acres, fueled by extreme drought and winds.
Travel Impact:

Closures along Highway 199 impacted travel between California and Oregon.
Redwood National and State Parks closed sections of trails and campgrounds due to fire danger.

Highland Fire (2023) – Riverside County

The Highland Fire burned through rural areas near Aguanga, damaging homes and forcing evacuations across several communities.
Travel Impact:

Local road closures made it difficult for travelers accessing wine country regions in southern California.

EMTs evacuating someone from a helicopter

How Generali Global Assistance Can Help During Wildfires

If a wildfire disrupts your travel plans or puts your safety at risk, Generali Global Assistance is there to help. Our travel protection plans include services and coverages designed for unexpected events like natural disasters.

24/7 Emergency Assistance

Generali Global Assistance’s global network of support professionals is available around the clock. If you need to change travel plans, locate a hospital, or find shelter during an evacuation, help is just a phone call away.

Emergency Assistance & Transportation

In the event you’re injured during a wildfire or affected by smoke inhalation, Generali Global Assistance’s Emergency Assistance & Transportation can help transport you to a suitable medical facility—or back home if necessary (Must be physician ordered and subject to prior approval by us or our authorized agent).

This can be particularly important when local healthcare systems are overwhelmed and suitable local care isn’t available or inaccessible due to road closures and fire damage.

Trip Interruption and Travel Delay Benefits

If wildfires force you to evacuate, or delay or interrupt your travel, Generali Global Assistance may reimburse you for:

Unused portions of your trip or extra travel costs
Additional lodging and meal expenses (If delayed for the minimum amount of time specified in your state specific plan documents or longer)
Transportation costs to reach a new destination or return home

Tips to Stay Safe and Avoid Wildfires in California

Wildfires can spread rapidly, and conditions can change without warning. Here’s how you can reduce your risk and stay informed during your trip:

1. Know Before You Go

Check wildfire danger ratings and weather conditions in the areas you plan to visit. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) offers maps and forecasts that can help you stay ahead of potential risks.

2. Download the WatchDuty App

The WatchDuty app is a must-have for any traveler heading to wildfire-prone regions. This free app delivers real-time wildfire alerts and updates curated by firefighters, first responders, and verified sources.

With WatchDuty, you can:

Monitor active fire perimeters
See evacuation orders in real time
Track air quality conditions
Receive location-specific notifications

Using the app for Android or for iPhone during your trip can help you avoid high-risk areas, reroute travel plans, or leave early if danger increases.

3. Avoid High-Risk Zones

Avoid national forests and remote mountain areas when fire danger is high. If you’re planning outdoor activities, stick to well-traveled routes and stay clear of regions experiencing high heat, wind, or drought.

4. Have an Emergency Plan

Even on vacation, it’s wise to have an evacuation plan. If you get alerts about nearby fires, make sure you know your nearest exit routes, keep your vehicle fueled, and pack an emergency kit with essentials like:

Water and non-perishable snacks
First aid supplies
Flashlight and batteries
N95 masks (for smoke protection)
Portable phone charger

Ready to Travel Safely?

With tools like the WatchDuty app, smart planning, and 24/7 support from Generali Global Assistance, you can explore California with greater confidence—even during wildfire season.

Before you book that dream trip to California, make sure you have travel protection. Learn more about your plan options and start your journey by getting a fast and free quote.