Thinking of a Caribbean getaway this summer but worried about hurricane season? You’re not alone. Travelling to this area in the off-season offers significant advantages. Imagine fewer crowds, quieter beaches and significant discounts on flights and accommodation. Off-season travel allows for a more relaxed experience, with more opportunities to enjoy the amenities of all-inclusive resorts without the usual hustle and bustle. Fortunately, with Transat’s Hurricane Policy, you can enjoy your holiday with peace of mind, knowing you’re protected against unexpected weather disruptions.
From buying the right travel insurance to understanding flexibility options, here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a holiday during the Atlantic hurricane season.
When is hurricane season in the Caribbean and Florida?
The hurricane and tropical storm season in the Caribbean and Florida officially runs from 1 June to 30 November. This is the time of year when tropical storms and hurricanes are most likely to occur, with peak activity typically occurring between August and October.
Is it safe to travel to the Caribbean and Florida during hurricane season?
Yes, it is generally safe to travel to the Caribbean and Florida during hurricane season as long as you take the necessary precautions. The local populations in these regions have extensive experience in preparing for and dealing with the effects of these storms. As a result, many travellers visit during this time and enjoy a safe holiday.
To ensure your safety, regularly monitor weather updates from reliable sources, purchase comprehensive travel insurance, and choose resorts with established hurricane protocols whenever possible.
With proper preparation and flexibility, you can still have a safe and enjoyable trip during hurricane season.
What are the best travel tips for the hurricane season?
Ask the right questions
While there’s a good chance you’ll be able to travel safely during hurricane season, it’s important to understand how your trip might be affected.
Ask cruise lines, airlines, hotels, car rental companies and other service providers about their hurricane preparedness. Find out how they inform guests about approaching hurricanes, what measures they plan to take and what their refund policies are. Always check full terms and conditions before travelling.
Buy travel insurance
Choose comprehensive coverage that offers flexible options in case a hurricane or tropical storm disrupts your plans. Here are some examples of what you may need in an emergency:
- Emergency evacuations: If a hurricane is heading for a major travel destination, authorities may issue evacuation orders. If your destination is in the hurricane’s path, you may need to evacuate to another area or make alternative travel arrangements.
- Trip cancellation: Hurricanes can disrupt air travel, resulting in missed pre-paid cruises, tours or hotel stays. It’s important to be prepared for possible cancellations and have a backup plan in place.
- Non-operational hotels: Severe weather can cause significant damage to hotels and infrastructure, resulting in power outages and supply chain issues. If your destination is affected, you may need to cancel, re-route or reschedule your trip due to unavailable accommodation.
- Travel delays: Hurricanes in the Caribbean can cause extensive flight disruptions, even in regions far from the direct path of the storm. If your return home is delayed by hours or days, you may incur additional costs for accommodation, meals and transportation.
Monitor weather updates
Keep a close eye on the weather both before and during your trip. Use reliable sources such as the National Hurricane Center or your favourite weather apps to stay updated on potential storms.
Be prepared to adapt
Due to their unpredictable nature, hurricanes require a flexible mindset. Be prepared to adjust your plans as necessary. Whether that means changing your travel dates, altering your itinerary or even choosing a different destination altogether, this adaptability will ensure that you can enjoy your holiday regardless of the weather.
Stay in touch
Staying connected is essential, especially during hurricane season. Keep family and friends informed of your travel plans and check in regularly, especially if a storm is approaching your destination. A local SIM card or international calling plan can be invaluable in keeping you updated and connected without relying on Wi-Fi.
You should also consider having backup charging options for your mobile phone in the event of a power outage. It’s an extra precaution that could come in handy!
Heed local warnings and instructions
Local authorities and hotel staff know best how to deal with hurricanes and tropical storms. Follow their advice and instructions to the T. If an evacuation is ordered, comply immediately. Your safety is paramount and local experts are there to guide you through any difficult situations.
And it’s always a good idea to follow the travel advice for Canadians abroad issued by the Government of Canada on the travel.gc.ca portal.
Travel with peace of mind with Transat’s Hurricane Policy
Transat offers travellers true peace of mind during hurricane season. If a hurricane disrupts your vacation in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean or Central America, Transat offers flexible options. This policy applies to all-inclusive packages and flights booked on Air Transat for departures between June 1 and November 30.
If you qualify, you can choose from the following options
- Travel at a later date: Reschedule your travel at no additional cost as long as the travel is completed by 1 December 2024, with the same destination, departure date, hotel, room category and occupancy.
- Travel to another destination: Change to another Transat destination without a change fee. If the new package is more expensive, pay the difference; if less expensive, receive a voucher valid for one year.
- Cancel and receive a voucher: Cancel your trip and receive a full refund in the form of vouchers (excluding certain fees), valid for one year and applicable to any Transat product.
- Travel to your booked destination: Proceed with your original plans if Transat still serves the city on your departure date. Please note that no refunds or compensation will be provided for cancellations due to hurricanes.
