If you’ve got plans to visit Florida soon, Hurricane Milton might be about to throw a wrench in them.
With the storm gaining strength, there are a few things you should know to stay safe and still enjoy your trip (if possible). Whether you’re already packed or just thinking about booking a last-minute getaway, here’s the scoop on what you need to do as Milton makes its way toward the Sunshine State.
Should You Still Go?
First things first—check your dates. If you plan to arrive in the next few days, you might want to reconsider or at least stay flexible. While Florida’s weather can change quickly, it’s best to keep an eye on updates from the National Hurricane Center. The closer Milton gets, the more likely flights will be delayed or canceled, and some areas could see evacuations or storm warnings.
Check with Your Airline or Hotel
Before you do anything else, check in with your airline and hotel. Many airlines offer free changes or cancellations during severe weather, and hotels often loosen their cancellation policies in situations like this. Don’t just show up at the airport or hotel hoping for the best—call ahead and make sure everything is still good to go. If you can’t reschedule, be prepared for delays.
Stay Informed—Weather Apps Are Your Friend
Download a reliable weather app (if you haven’t already done so). Trust me, real-time updates can be a lifesaver when you’re traveling during hurricane season. The National Hurricane Center’s website or app is your go-to for official updates. Plus, apps like AccuWeather or WeatherBug can give you detailed forecasts and storm alerts tailored to your location.
Pack Smart—Don’t Forget the Essentials
If you’re still heading to Florida, pack with the weather in mind. Waterproof gear, extra phone chargers, and non-perishable snacks are must-haves if you get stuck indoors for a bit. And don’t forget to pack some basic first aid supplies just in case. Hurricanes can cause power outages, so consider grabbing a portable charger for your devices.
Be Prepared for Changes in Plans
If you’re already in Florida, brace yourself for potential itinerary shakeups. Theme parks like Disney World or Universal Studios might close temporarily depending on Milton’s path. Beaches could also be off-limits due to storm surge risks, and some restaurants and businesses may shut down for safety. Keep your plans flexible and be ready to pivot if things change quickly.
Rental Cars and Gas—Plan Ahead
If you’re driving, whether it’s a rental or your own car, make sure you fill up on gas before the storm hits. Gas stations tend to run out fast during hurricane prep, and the last thing you want is to be stranded in the middle of a storm without fuel. If you’re renting a car, check the rental company’s policies on returning vehicles during severe weather.
Don’t Ignore Evacuation Orders
If you’re in an area that issues an evacuation order, take it seriously. Hurricanes aren’t something to mess around with, and local authorities know the risks. Follow evacuation routes and head inland if necessary. Make sure you’ve got a plan for where you’ll go if things get worse than expected.
Keep Your Documents Handy
If you’re flying, keep your important travel documents close by—especially if you need to make a quick change to your plans. Have your passport, ID, and any travel insurance details on hand in case you need to adjust bookings or file claims. Travel insurance is especially helpful in situations like this, so make sure you know what your policy covers.
Travel Insurance—Is It Worth It?
If you don’t have travel insurance yet, now’s the time to think about it. Many policies cover cancellations due to weather, so it’s worth considering if you’re booking a trip during hurricane season. Just double-check the fine print to make sure hurricanes and weather-related disruptions are covered.
Look for Local Shelter and Resources
If you’re already in Florida when Milton hits, make sure you know where the nearest shelters are. Hotels will usually provide guidance, but it’s a good idea to check local government websites for emergency shelters and other resources. You can also check with the local Red Cross for shelter updates if you’re caught in an area without hotel availability.
Stay Calm and Keep Perspective
Yes, hurricanes can be scary, especially if you’re not used to them. But locals in Florida deal with these storms regularly, and the state is prepared for this kind of weather. Stay calm, follow safety guidelines, and keep checking weather updates. The most important thing is to keep yourself safe—rescheduling a vacation is far better than putting yourself in danger.
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mikhail Nilov.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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