The devastating hurricanes of 2004-05 not only made potential visitors to Florida aware of the giant storms, it made many afraid to make travel plans during hurricane season. It is unfortunate that the hurricane season runs right through Florida’s busy summer vacation season, but it isn’t necessary to avoid hurricane prone areas.
The Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. While the National Hurricane Center cannot predict exactly when storms will threaten, there are months that see more storm activity — August through October — and months where typically fewer storms usually develop — June, July and November. It is hurricane season, but that doesn’t mean a hurricane will occur, so there are steps you can take in planning your vacation that will help to lessen the impact the threat of a storm or an actual storm.
Hurricane Guarantees
Before you book your vacation you should check with your airline, cruise line, hotel or resort to see if they offer a hurricane guarantee. Hurricane guarantees vary with each company or property, but basically they will either refund disrupted travel or rebook accommodations without additional charge. >Disney World Hurricane Guarantee
Tip: Get hurricane guarantees in writing; and, if you need to make a claim, get it in writing and keep a copy.
Travel Insurance
This is one of those instances that travel insurance makes sense; but, since travel insurance is a “named perils” insurance make sure the hurricane coverage is included. Be sure to read the fine print for any limitations or exclusions. One likely exclusion will be rain. Hurricanes bring a lot of rain, and even if it rains your entire vacation, rain alone will likely not allow you to collect. However, if your resort closes and you must evacuate, you most likely will have a claim.
You should be proactive in preparing your family for an possible storm. Before you leave on vacation, follow these tips to prepare yourself and your family:
- Learn about hurricanes — the terminology and what the watches and warnings mean.
- Find out if your hotel or resort offers a weather guarantee. If so, get it in writing.
- Find out if your hotel or resort is in an evacuation zone. If so, look up and print the maps in advance.
- Designate an out-of-state contact person that you can keep updated with your whereabouts. They can keep other family members informed.
- Stay informed. Monitor television and radio broadcasts or read the newspaper. Technology allows for more advanced warnings, giving plenty of time to either evacuate or make preparations to keep your family safe.
- If you are asked to evacuate, do it! This is no time to be adventurous.
- Whether you are driving your own car or a rental. Gas up... and keep the tank full!
- Get cash! Since ATMs and banks may run out of money before the storm or not be operational following a storm due to power outages, cash may be the only form of currency accepted.
- Be sure to have the following in case you get sent to a shelter:
- Make sure you have an ample supply of medications — a two-week supply is suggested.
- Pets' health records (including rabies vaccination), an ample sized pet carrier, pet food and any medications your pet needs. (Pets are only allowed in select shelters.)
- Any survival supplies you may have on hand, such as bottled water. - Alcoholic beverages, and weapons are NOT allowed in shelters.
The bottom line is book your vacation whenever you can get the time off; and, if it happens to fall during hurricane season, purchase travel insurance and go for it!
