On the heels of one of the strongest typhoons in recent years to hit Philippines and Hong Kong, Typhoon Mangkhut, as a traveler, it’s always important to know what to do if you’re ever stuck in a hurricane or typhoon, both tropical cyclones.
If you’re planning a trip to a tropical cyclone-prone destination, make sure you’re prepared. Here are three tips for those traveling during hurricane and typhoon season:
1. Stay Alert & Informed
If you’re traveling to the US, you can check the National Hurricane Center website for updates leading up to your trip – they usually name a hurricane 36 to 48 hours in advance. For typhoon tracking in Asia, you can check for updates on Hong Kong Observatory website.
2. Purchase Travel Insurance Early
Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include cancellation coverage in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm. According to Yonder Travel Insurance, purchase your plan early because you will no longer be able to purchase a policy with coverage for a named storm once it’s deemed “foreseeable.”
3. Pack Smart
Your trip is finally here and the weather looks like it’s going to hold! Make sure you’re still prepared if something changes. Pack a small first aid kit, battery-powered flashlight (I prefer a headlight so your arms are free to carry things), and non-perishable foods (protein bars are light to carry and last forever), just in case a natural disaster heads your way.