What You Need to Know about Traveling During Hurricane Season This Summer

Traveling during the summer mostly means tanning under a beaming sun, visiting beaches with crystal clear waters that reflect the blue skies, and tolerating a tropical storm here and there. For many popular destinations, the summer months are the beginning of hurricane season, where you can expect heavy winds and harsh rain. 

Traveling during this season doesn’t mean you have to cancel your plans, but you do need to take some precautions. 

Here’s what you need to know about traveling during a time when the weather conditions can be unpredictable. 

When is hurricane season?

Hurricane season occurs throughout the year, depending on the location. For countries along the Atlantic and central Pacific, hurricane season typically is from June 1 through November 30. For those along the eastern Pacific coastline, hurricane season can start a little earlier, from May 15 to November 30.

You might think that hurricane season means a little bit of rain and maybe a delayed flight or two. However, that’s wishful thinking. Storms during hurricane season have been known to shut down resorts and hotels for days, halt flights from coming in or going out of the country, and create an unpredictable time to travel overall. Hurricanes can even cause the need for evacuations. 

Whether you’re already traveling or thinking about traveling during this hectic time, here are some important terms you need to know.

• Warning: A tropical storm or hurricane is anticipated to hit within the next 36 hours.
• Watch: A tropical storm or hurricane is likely within 48 hours.
• Advisory: Conditions are expected to cause significant inconvenience and may be hazardous. Still, if proper caution is exercised, they should not be life-threatening.

Now, you’re probably thinking that summer is your one chance for vacation, so you’re traveling rain or shine. If nothing will stop you from taking your trip, here’s how to prepare.

How to prepare for traveling in hurricane season

Preparation is essential, not only for your safety but also for the enjoyment of your trip. Follow these steps in case it rains on your parade. 

Know what the country’s procedures are during a hurricane

It’s vital to know your destination country’s procedures for handling emergencies. Start your research by visiting the official website of the country you’re traveling to. On the website, look for pages or information dedicated to disaster management. 

If you have trouble finding information on the country’s website, you can check out other resources, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Hurricane Center. 

Lastly, visit your embassy’s website or consulate in the destination country for safety and weather-related announcements. Take note of emergency numbers listed on the site and store those numbers in your phone. 

Pack an emergency kit

Amongst your long packing list, be sure to add an emergency kit. A travel-sized bag with essential items can be useful if you get stuck in a destination for several days or have an emergency. Here are some things to include in your kit. Remember to add or remove based on your specific needs. 

Medical Supplies:

• Bandages in various sizes (adhesive and non-adhesive)
• Antiseptic wipes or spray
• Pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
• Antidiarrheal medication
• Antihistamines
• Motion sickness medication (if needed)
• Tweezers
• Thermometer
• Prescription medications
• Personal medical supplies (e.g., contact lens solution, feminine hygiene products)

Hygiene and Sanitation:

• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes
• Disposable face masks (you probably have some leftovers from the pandemic) 

Sun Protection:

• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent (with DEET if necessary for the region)
• Aloe vera gel (for sunburn relief)
• Hat with a brim

Basic Tools and Supplies:

• Small flashlight and extra batteries
• Whistle (for attracting attention)
• Safety pins and sewing kit
• Duct tape 
• Small multi-tool (with a knife, screwdriver, pliers)
• Cash in local currency 
• Copies of important documents (passport, ID, travel insurance)

Connect with your hotel staff or host

Your hotel staff or hostess is there to help you. Upon your arrival, take a few moments to ask the staff about their emergency and evacuation policies. Understand how they will communicate with you in the event of an emergency. 

This quick conversation will help things run smoothly if a hurricane or strong storm approaches. 

Communicate with friends and family back home

A standard solo travel safety tip is to leave your travel information with a trusted family member or friend back home.

You can also establish a system of checking in with loved ones back home. Even though you may be consistently posting on social media, you should have a system where you communicate through Whatsapp, video call, or other means to properly communicate that you are safe.

Purchase travel insurance

If you’ve ever doubted getting travel insurance, here are some benefits you should know about. 

• Financial: Insurance can cover non-refundable payments if you need to cancel your trip due to a hurricane or other weather-related events. 
• Medical: If you become sick during your trip and need medical attention, insurance can not only help cover the cost, but some insurance can help you locate a care facility. 
• Assistance: As mentioned before, hurricane season can be unpredictable, and you may need to book a new hotel, detour from your trip, or make other changes. Many insurance agents provide 24-hour service to help you make the necessary changes. 

While there are many benefits to travel insurance, not all policies and companies provide equal service. Before you purchase travel insurance, consider the following:

• Purchase during your booking process. This way, you can have coverage when your trip starts and avoid time-bound limitations. 
• You can purchase travel insurance through your travel agent.
• Shop around and compare rates and coverage. While it’s convenient to book travel insurance online or over the phone, do your research first. 

Other things you can do to prepare

Once you’ve covered all of your bases, you can do a few more things to ensure extra safety. 

• Join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP). Through this program, Embassy staff can easily communicate with you during emergencies.
• Download a hurricane and weather tracking app before your trip. 
• Download airline apps. Most major airlines have apps travelers can download to receive information on travel delays and cancellations.
• Adjust your travel plans. Consider delaying your trip for a day or two to avoid an oncoming storm.

Lastly, if the idea of traveling to an island during hurricane season is overwhelming, don’t worry. You can still have your time in paradise without the looming fear of a hurricane blowing your vacation away. Here are some islands that are less prone to hurricanes. 

• Aruba
• Bonaire
• Curaçao 
• Panama
• Hawaii
• Mexico (areas on the west coast)

While vacation is fun and relaxing, remember to prioritize your safety and well-being.