Hurricane Travel Tips: How to Prepare for Travel During Hurricane Season

Let’s talk about the least glamorous part of planning a tropical vacation — hurricane season.

If you’re dreaming of sipping cocktails by the Caribbean Sea, but your dates fall between June and November, you’re technically traveling during hurricane season. But don’t panic! That doesn’t mean you should cancel your vacation or avoid planning one altogether. It just means it’s smart to prepare ahead of time.

As a luxury travel planner, I help clients navigate this season every single year. And yes, you can still plan a wonderful, stress-free getaway during hurricane season, you just need to be strategic. Here’s everything you need to know to feel confident booking a trip during hurricane season, plus all my best hurricane travel tips to help you avoid (or at least be ready for) any disruptions.

When Is Hurricane Season?

In the Atlantic and Caribbean, hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30. That means destinations like:

• The Bahamas

• Turks & Caicos

• Jamaica

• Dominican Republic

• Mexico’s Caribbean coast (Cancun, Tulum, Riviera Maya)

• Most of the Eastern Caribbean (St. Lucia, Antigua, Barbados)

…are all technically at risk for storms during this window. The peak season is typically August through early October, but storms can happen any time in that broader June to November range.

Should You Still Travel

During Hurricane Season?

Short answer: yes, with a plan.

In fact, many travelers prefer hurricane season because resorts are less crowded, flights can be more affordable and the beaches are still just as beautiful.

The key is to book with flexibility and prepare like a pro. Here’s how:

Hurricane Travel Prep Checklist

1. Buy Travel Insurance That Covers

Weather Delays & Cancellations

This is non-negotiable. Not all travel insurance policies cover hurricanes, so you’ll want to double check that your coverage includes:

• Weather-related delays

• Trip cancellations or interruptions

• Extended stays due to grounded flights or closed airports

• Reimbursement for non-refundable bookings (like tours, transfers, etc.)

And, when you book your trip through me, I’ll walk you through the exact policy options that work best for your trip.

2. Book with a Travel Advisor

This is where having an expert in your corner is everything. If weather rolls in, I can:

• Rebook your flights or reroute you in real time

• Help communicate with your resort

• Find backup accommodations or return travel

• Handle the logistics so you’re not stuck on hold or stranded at the airport

When the unexpected happens, having someone to troubleshoot on your behalf can make all the difference between panic and peace of mind.

3. Stay Flexible With Your Itinerary

Even if you’re a planner (hi, me too), it’s good to keep some wiggle room in your schedule. Avoid stacking tight connections or planning multiple destinations during hurricane season. Stick to one or two locations, allow for extra buffer time between activities, and keep your mindset as breezy as your beach hair.

4. Download Weather & Airline Apps

A few of my favorites:

• MyRadar or Windy: for up-to-date storm tracking

• Airline apps: so you can rebook or get updates quickly

• TripIt: to keep everything organized in one place

Bonus: if I booked your trip, I’ll also be watching the forecast and monitoring any potential changes so we can pivot quickly, if needed.

5. Choose Your Destination Wisely

Some Caribbean islands are more prone to hurricanes than others. A few that tend to see fewer direct hits (historically speaking) include:

• Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao (aka the “ABC Islands” – south of the hurricane belt)

• Barbados

• Grenada

• St. Lucia

If you're traveling during the peak hurricane season (August–October), these islands are great options that typically offer more peace of mind and better weather odds.

Another option is to pivot altogether and plan your summer vacation to a destination unlikely to face any weather-related interruptions (dare I say a European summer getaway?). The tropics will still be warm come December/January and you could give yourself a little break from the cold then!

6. Know Your Resort’s Hurricane Policy

Many resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico have official hurricane policies in place because this isn’t their first rodeo either. These can include:

• Free date changes

• Future travel credits

• Full refunds in the event of a named storm

When I book a client’s trip, I always make sure the resort’s policy is transparent and traveler-friendly. You deserve to feel protected from the start.

What Happens If a Hurricane Is

Headed Toward Your Destination?

Here’s what to expect, and how I’ll support you through it:

• 48–72 Hours Before: Airlines start offering waivers for rebooking. Resorts communicate any planned closures. We review your options together and decide whether to move forward, delay or pivot.

• 24–48 Hours Before: If evacuation becomes necessary or if travel becomes unsafe, I’ll handle the rebooking process and communicate with all vendors on your behalf.

• During Your Trip: Most resorts are prepared with emergency protocols, backup generators, and staff trained for weather response. If you do get stuck on property for a few extra days, I’ll continue to monitor travel updates and help adjust your return plan.

Can I Still Book a Trip for

August, September, or October?

Yes, yes and yes. The key is to plan smart and book through someone who has your back. Many of my favorite destinations still shine during this season, you just need the right info, a good cancellation policy and a flexible mindset.

And honestly? I’ve seen just as many sunny September beach days as stormy ones. The right destination, with the right prep, makes all the difference.

Final Tips for Travel

During Hurricane Season

• Pack a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella

• Leave extra room in your return schedule if possible

• Pack essentials in your carry-on (in case of delays)

• Use a credit card with travel protection for booking flights and hotels

• Bookmark this post for reference!

Let Me Help You Plan

(and Protect) Your Trip

Whether you’re planning a last-minute Caribbean getaway or mapping out your fall travel calendar, I’d love to help you book a trip that feels amazing and stress-free.

With me, you’re not just booking a vacation, you’re booking someone who’s watching the radar, answering your questions and handling the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

If you feel like you have the planning down, but still want to take advantage of the perks that come with booking through a professional, you can use my direct booking link to book on your own and receive the little add-ons! The access code is VIPTRAVELER.

Prefer a little help and personalization? You’re in the right place. Fill out my travel inquiry form