I recently returned from my annual travel advisor conference in the Big Easy – New Orleans, Louisiana. While it was amazing to catch up with my fellow travel professionals, I also experienced something unexpected—my very first hurricane (and no not the drink, lol)! Hurricane Francine, while not as intense as I had feared, still managed to disrupt my travel plans. With that in mind, I thought it would be the perfect time to share some useful tips for traveling during hurricanes or any kind of severe weather.
Severe weather can throw a wrench in even the best-laid travel plans, especially when you’re facing a hurricane or sudden storms. Flights get delayed, canceled, and you may find yourself stuck in an airport or scrambling to rebook. But don’t worry— with a little preparation and some savvy moves, you can weather the storm (pun intended!) and get back on track. Here are nine essential tips to help you navigate travel during severe weather!
1. Stay Informed and Ready to Act
In unpredictable weather, staying informed is your first line of defense. Regularly check the updates from trusted sources like the National Weather Service, and ensure you’re signed up for real-time flight alerts from your airline’s app. The faster you’re alerted to a cancellation or delay the quicker you can start rebooking.
2. Be Quick to Rebook
Once you get the dreaded notification of a cancelled flight, speed is key.Use the airline’s app or website to find alternative routes or rebook your flight. With other passengers racing to do the same, those who act fast are more likely to secure a seat on the next available flight. And if you do have some flexibility in your schedule, you can opt to leave a couple days later too.
3. Know Your Rights
While airlines in the U.S. aren’t required to offer compensation for weather-related cancellations, they may still provide vouchers for meals or hotel stays. If you are provided a meal voucher, those typically come with an expiration date so make sure you take advantage of them! If you’re flying internationally, you might be entitled to more compensation under the European Union Regulation EC 261/2004, so it’s work knowing what protections apply.
4. Secure a Place to Stay ASAP
If it looks like you’ll be stranded overnight, don’t wait to book a hotel. With other travelers in the same baot, nearby accommodations fill up fast. If you are already staying at a hotel, ask the front desk if you can extend your stay immediately as that should be the most ideal option as who wants to switch hotels in the midst of severe weather?!
5. Travel Insurance is Your Friend
I always recommend travel insurance to all my clients for every trip, especially if they travel often or are heading into a season with unpredictable weather. (I also offer annual travel insurance plans and have one for myself!) Many policies cover trip interruptions, cancellations, and delays caused by severe weather. Even better, some premium credit cards offer similar protections, so check your card’s benefits before you hit the road. And if you do have any claims – make sure you keep all your receipts and documentation so that you have everything you need to get reimbursed for extra expenses incurred while traveling.
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6. Keep the Essentials in Your Carry-On
You never know when your travel plans might change at the last minute, so it’s smart to keep essentials within reach. Medications, snacks, phone chargers, and even a change of clothes should always be in your carry-on. Having a portable power bank is also a must when long waits at the airport are on the horizon!
7. Be Open to Alternate Routes
Sometimes getting where you need to go means being flexible with your travel plans. If your original route is cancelled, consider nearby airports or even different modes of transportation. Whether it’s a flight to a neighboring city or a quick bus or train ride, alternate routes can get you to your destination faster if you need to get there timely!
8. Stay Calm and Kind
Remember that airport staff are dealing with an influx of stressed travelers, and a little kindess goes a long way. Patience is key, and flexibility can help ease frustration. A calm and polite demeanor can also improve your chances of getting a helpful solution from customer service!
9. Use Airport Lounges to Your Advantage
If you have access to an airline lounge, take advantage of it! Not only will you have a more comfortable space to relax and recharge your devices, but many lounges also have dedicated staff who can help with rebooking your flight or troubleshooting issues. If you do not have access to a lounge, sometimes the airline lounges allow you to pay for a day pass if they are not at capacity so if you want more comfort, that is an option to consider too!
Traveling during a hurricane or severe weather can feel chaotic, but with the right approach, you can reduce stress and get through it with ease. By staying informed, being proactive, and keeping a positive attitude, you’ll be back to your travel plans before you know it.
Safe travels!
