Tips for Traveling to Florida During Hurricane Season
The 2022 Atlantic hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30, which includes the most popular months for summer vacations. The good news is that the risk of a tropical storm or hurricane impacting your Florida vacation is very low. It just takes a little preparation and planning before your trip begins, and Kong Vacation Homes is here to help! With single-family rental homes in West Central and South Florida, we know Florida hurricane season well, and we’ve compiled these tips to help you travel – and stay – safe.
Know Your Timing
Hurricanes are most likely to make landfall in Florida between mid-August to late October. Before you start planning a late summer or fall trip to the beach or amusement parks, we recommend that you first check out the hurricane preparedness resources on the National Weather Service’s website. Weather apps are also helpful tools to keep you up-to-date on storm forecasts and activity.
Pack Smart (and Safe)
Try to limit your luggage to carry-on bags only, which will make it easier for you if flights are rescheduled or canceled. Pack any medications you may need, cash, and travel-size toiletries and personal items.
When you reach your destination, you can purchase bottled water and non-perishable food for each member of your family – and don’t forget your pets! In case of a power outage, it’s always a good idea to have solar battery-powered USB chargers for your electronic items, a battery-powered flashlight or lantern, and a first-aid kit on hand, too. Check with your rental property’s manager to see what they provide!
At Kong Vacation Homes, you’ll find a welcome basket with snacks and other items when you arrive at your rental, along with extra soap and surface sanitation supplies that you can use at your discretion.
Stay Informed
While you are on your vacation, keep an eye on local TV weather reports or listen to weather updates on the radio. VISIT FLORIDA also is a great resource for travelers, with frequently asked questions about travel during hurricane season.
Stay Connected
Make sure to let friends and family members at home know where you are traveling and how to contact you there. Keep your phone charged, because texting is often the first service to come back online after a storm.
Have Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can help protect your investment, in case you have to cancel or change your plans at the last minute. With insurance, you can cancel your trip (with at least 48 hours of notice) prior to departure, if you know a hurricane is threatening your destination.
Leave Early
If a storm is approaching, consider cutting your vacation short. By leaving early, you’ll avoid the big crowds that will pack the roadways and airports once the hurricane is confirmed. Also, check the hurricane policies in the rental contract for your vacation home or your flights – you may not be entitled to a refund unless there is a mandatory, state-ordered hurricane evacuation.
If you do get caught in a hurricane, seek shelter on high ground and follow instructions. You can view evacuation zones, evacuation routes, and public shelters here.
Be Prepared to Extend Your Trip
While the severe weather may pass quickly, the aftermath could result in problems for travelers. The airport could be closed, and flights could be canceled or overcrowded. Electricity could be down, and roads could be blocked or flooded. As long as your accommodations are safe, be prepared to stay put longer than planned.
Try Not to Stress
While it’s important to be prepared, remember the odds of a hurricane hitting are low. As long as you plan ahead and don’t mind the risk of inconvenience, you’ll most likely find more sunny days than not in Florida!
If you have any questions about what we do at Kong Vacation Homes to make sure our properties are hurricane-ready, we’d love to hear from you. We want your experience with us to be a great one, no matter the season. For more information about Kong Vacation Homes, contact us at 866-499-9026 or info@kongmg.com.