Don't forget travel insurance!

The weather outside is frightful, but vacation can be so delightful (and much warmer)! We might not want to admit it, but winter is around the corner. While that makes it the perfect time to escape to warmer climates, it can also mean travel delays and other travel challenges because of winter storms. It’s anyone’s guess what’s in store for this winter so be prepared for your travels during winter months with these travel tips:

Leave Early

Allow extra time to get to the airport or your destination when you’re driving during the winter. That extra cushion of time can mean the difference between arriving on time or getting there late (or not arriving at all if you miss your flight).

Connect in the South

If you need to have a connecting flight, try to choose a southern city to make your connection. Weather will be less likely to be an issue during the winter months.

Check Out the Airport Lounge

Severe weather events can be the best times to purchase a one-day airline lounge pass. It’ll be more comfortable to wait out the weather in the lounge and often rebooking lines are shorter than in the terminals.

Follow on Social Media

Often the easiest way for airlines and airports to get the word out about major travel delays and important information is via social media.

Check the Weather Early and Often

Don’t wait until a winter storm hits to make other travel plans. Keep your eye on the weather to stay ahead of Mother Nature and prevent your trip from being derailed. Watch the weather in all cities where your travel plans could be affected – your departure city, any connections and your destination. To check for inclement weather before you depart, visit the National Weather Service for up-to-date weather information and alerts

Pack Travel Insurance

Remember to pack a travel insurance plan through Travel Guard for 24/7 travel assistance in re-booking cancelled flights, making hotel arrangements, and other emergency travel assistance. Travel insurance plans can also provide coverage for medical expenses and emergency medical evacuations, as well as reimbursement for your pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs in the event that inclement weather causes the cancellation or interruption of your travel.

Always read the terms of your policy before purchasing to make sure the plan you’ve selected includes the weather coverage you’re seeking, as coverage varies by plan. (Need assistance? Call our World Service Center anytime at 800.851.0048; they’ll be glad to help you.)

“When we flew to Chicago last October, my husband’s bags were lost. We reported the loss to the airline and then to Travel Guard. Due to the close attention we got from Travel Guard, his bag was found and returned to us that evening before we started our cross-country “bucket list” train trip across the USA. I don’t know what we would have done for 3 days without his bag! Thank you Travel Guard! We’ll never make travel plans again without you!!!”

-Leah N.