Gareth Robinson, Managing Director of Carrentals.co.uk, says: “In 2010 the volcanic ash caused chaos, with the knock-on effect of hundreds of cancelled flights impacting on everything from car hire and hotel reservations, to lost working days as employees couldn’t return to work.  One of the main issues customers told us about was the lack of communication available, with many companies such as airlines and insurance companies seemingly unclear in their policies.

“While last year was the first time volcanic ash had impacted on the UK, this year travel companies should have learned from that experience and be prepared for the variety and volume of questions from travellers.  Companies need to have in place agreed policies for cancellations and delays, and ensure their staff have the knowledge to offer accurate, useful advice.”

Which? recently found that some travellers affected by the April 2010 ash cloud are still out of pocket over a year on, due to a back log of requests and differing interpretations of insurance policies.

Carrentals.co.uk has said that any customers who have booked through the site and are concerned about the volcanic ash cloud affecting their travel plans can contact them through the website help section.

Carrentals.co.uk is the leading car hire comparison site, comparing deals from up to 50 rental companies, including Alamo, Auto Europe, Budget, Holiday Autos and Sixt, in over 15,000 locations worldwide.