The Atlantic hurricane season is underway. And this year, meteorologists are once again forecasting above-average tropical storm activity. In fact, they predict 14 to 21 named storms and six to 10 hurricanes by the time the season ends on Nov. 30.
Although we can’t change unpredictable weather patterns, we can certainly help prepare ourselves for them. If you’re planning a vacation during this time frame, it’s so important to consider including travel insurance in your budget – whether you’re venturing to an exotic Caribbean resort or taking a stateside trip to your favorite beach.
Here are four questions you may have about purchasing travel protection during hurricane season:
When should I buy it?
Travel insurance is designed to help protect your financial investment, your health and your belongings when the unforeseen occurs. It’s a smart idea to purchase travel protection at the time of booking. If you wait too long and decide to buy it after a named storm develops, your plan may not cover cancellations or interruptions caused by the storm.
Is travel insurance still beneficial even if I’m not going to a tropical area?
Yes! Let’s say you live in Florida. You’re getting ready to take an Alaskan cruise. Just one day before your trip, a Category 4 hurricane barrels into the coast and destroys your house. What are your options? If you purchased travel protection and your home becomes uninhabitable, that can be a covered reason for trip cancellation.
What can it cover?
Remember each travel insurance plan has its own unique terms, so it’s important to read your policy carefully and ask your provider questions. Some trip cancellation plans will reimburse costs if you are forced to cancel your trip due to a hurricane that’s impacting your destination during your scheduled time of travel. But keep in mind, some plans may require that a storm be named and/or affecting your specific destination and not just headed close to your general geographic region.
What happens when severe weather strikes during my travels?
If you’re forced to evacuate your hotel or you miss your flight due to an impassable road, travel protection may help pay for the extra expenses you incur – from meals, lodging and transportation costs to reimbursement for the unused, non-refundable portion of your trip. Often an overlooked benefit for many travelers, “trip interruption” can sometimes be a relatively small investment that can payoff when you’re faced with sudden, unexpected situations, including hurricanes.
The Aon Travel Takeaway? “Be a savvy traveler this hurricane season,” says Beth Godlin, president of the Aon Affinity Travel Practice. “You never know when adverse weather may come your way. Help lessen your stress by opting for travel protection. You may find that it’s worth it to pay a few additional dollars for your safety and peace of mind.”