Top three tips for traveling during hurricane season

Above aerial view of hurricane

07/17/2018

While traveling for business or vacation during the summer and throughout the fall months, keep in mind that it is also hurricane season - which lasts until the end of November. During hurricane season, travelers may encounter disruptions such as severe weather, canceled/delayed flights, or inaccessible roads; especially if they travel closer to the coastlines. However, this doesn't necessarily mean you have to cancel your entire trip since not all hurricanes leave a severe footprint along their route. As long as you have a plan in place to ensure your safety and security, you can still have a productive and enjoyable trip.

To ensure your travel plans are protected during hurricane season, consider the following:

1. Keep track of the forecast

Keep track of the forecast while you're on a trip during the hurricane season. Make sure you always have access to a radio, TV, or app on your mobile device that allows you to keep up with severe weather updates.

2. Consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service available to all U.S. citizens which allows travelers to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. With STEP, you can receive important information from your embassy about safety conditions and concerns that may come up in the country you are traveling to. Enrolling allows the embassy to contact you in the event of an emergency, such as a natural disaster, and then helps you get in touch with family and friends back home.

3. Access resources from your travel insurance provider

Immediately after booking a trip that's scheduled to occur during hurricane season, check with your human resources or risk management team to find out available resources from your company's travel insurance plan. Accessing your company's business travel insurance resources (e.g., emergency phone number, travel alerts, travel training, etc.) can come in handy if hurricanes disrupt your travel plans and you need help with anything minor to major. 

 

Regardless of where you are traveling to you should always be prepared and have an emergency plan if traveling during hurricane season. 

 

Contact your travel insurance provider for further assistance.

The information contained here is provided by Brafton. AIG Travel assumes no responsibility for the use, accuracy, or interpretation of the information contained herein.