Hurricane Season Travel Tips

By now, you might be wondering, “Is it worth the risk to plan a trip or cruise to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, or the Mexican Riviera during hurricane season?”

Is it safe to travel during hurricane season?

If you hope for the best and prepare for the worst, the travel deals are often worth the risk (especially with travel insurance in hand).

1. Look for a really great deal – one for a trip you could take later if a hurricane occurs.
2. Stay flexible about your travel plans and plan extra time – you may have to make changes during your trip or even reschedule your trip entirely.
3. Research your travel supplier’s hurricane cancellation policies so you know what you’re covered for in the event of a hurricane.
4. Purchase travel insurance and read the policy to be sure it covers hurricane-related disruptions.
5. Think about the unique situations (what if the bridges are washed out or ferries are full?) you may encounter in getting to or from your destination and find out if those are covered by your travel insurance plan.

Best areas for travelers headed to a hurricane zone

Some of the best places for traveling without hurricanes are Bonaire and Caracao, which in the last 150 years have seen 12 named storms pass by. Most hurricanes tend to pass by the so-called ‘ABC islands’, which are:

• Aruba
• Bonaire
• Curacao

Plus, Trinidad and Tobago are usually considered safer because they are also farther south.

Of course, these islands aren’t entirely immune to hurricanes. In 2004, Hurricane Ivan was headed straight for them before it turned and smashed instead into Grenada, which is another island that rarely sees hurricanes.

Keep an eye on the latest storms

The National Hurricane Center website is the best place to monitor the status of any storm and keeping an eye on the area where you plan to travel in the weeks prior to your trip will help. You’ll be aware of any tropical storm warnings that could threaten your trip and you’ll have time to make adjustments in your travel plans.

If a storm is brewing, check in with your airline a few days before your flight and often after to find out if your flights are delayed or canceled. This goes for your hotel, resort, or cruise as well.

Can’t get where you’re going?

In many cases, hurricane-related travel problems have little to do with the ship or your destination and everything to do with the conditions where you are traveling from – flights may be delayed or canceled, airports and roads can close, and more.

This is why building a little extra time into your travel plans is essential. Having the right travel insurance is also essential if you want to avoid unexpected losses or expenses due to missed connections and travel delays.

If you prepare for the possibility of travel delays – going and coming home – then you’re far more likely to enjoy your trip even if you encounter disruptions.

Related topics

• Hurricane travel insurance
• Hurricaneville