Smoke and air quality · checked against official sources 16 August 2026 at 09:47 UK time
Europe Wildfire Smoke and Air Quality Travel Advice
How wildfire smoke changes travel decisions for drivers, families, campsite stays and outdoor plans.
Short answer: smoke can make a destination unpleasant or unsafe even when the fire is not nearby. If visibility drops, ash falls, breathing feels difficult or authorities issue advice, reduce exposure and follow official instructions.
What travellers should check
- Wind direction and local air-quality services for the region you are entering.
- Whether vulnerable travellers, children, older people, pets or anyone with asthma/heart disease are in the group.
- Whether your accommodation has clean indoor air, shade and the ability to close windows.
- Whether the route could send you through smoke, not just near flames.
Travel advice hub
Pick your country and check official sources.Campervan planning
Smoke-specific issues for campsites and vans.Insurance questions
What to ask if smoke affects accommodation or travel.Europe Fire Map is travel decision support, not an emergency service or an official incident feed. Conditions can change faster than this page. Follow local authorities, accommodation providers and emergency services first. In danger anywhere in the EU, call 112.