As a travel advisor, ensuring your clients are well-prepared when a hurricane is approaching is critical. While hurricanes can cause unexpected changes and disruption, being proactive can minimize stress and ensure their safety. Here are the top steps a travel advisor should take to prepare clients for an impending hurricane:
1. Stay Informed with Real-Time Weather Updates
The first step is to stay informed about the hurricane’s path, severity and potential impact on travel plans. Rely on trusted sources like the National Hurricane Center and weather tracking apps. Keep your clients updated with accurate and timely information to help them make informed decisions.
2. Review Clients’ Travel Insurance Policies
Before a storm hits, review your clients’ travel insurance policies to ensure they have coverage for weather-related disruptions. Some policies offer trip cancellation, interruption and emergency assistance, which can be crucial in these situations.
3. Contact Airlines, Hotels, and Other Service Providers
Once a hurricane is forecasted, reach out to airlines, hotels, cruise lines and other service providers to understand their policies regarding cancellations, rebooking or rescheduling. Many companies offer flexibility during natural disasters but it’s best to confirm specific details. Relay this information to your clients including any cancellation windows or rebooking opportunities.
4. Discuss Alternate Travel Plans
If a client is traveling to a hurricane-prone area, work with them to devise a backup plan. This could include rescheduling their trip, rerouting to a safer destination or adjusting their travel dates. Flexibility is key and having an alternative plan will provide peace of mind for both you and your clients.
5. Advise Clients on Safety Precautions
For clients who are already in the affected area or planning to travel soon, safety is paramount. Ensure they are aware of evacuation plans, emergency contact numbers and nearby shelters. Advise them to pack essential supplies, such as medications, cash and important documents, in case evacuation is necessary.
6. Leverage Travel Networks and Suppliers
Use your network of travel suppliers and on-the-ground contacts to gain real-time insights and advice on the situation in the destination. Suppliers, such as tour operators or local partners, can offer valuable information about conditions, closures or emergency protocols that you may not find in public updates.
7. Communicate Continuously
Frequent communication is crucial in these situations. Keep your clients updated regularly on any changes in the storm’s path, potential disruptions or alternative arrangements. Ensure your clients feel supported and know that you are actively working on their behalf to secure their safety and travel plans.
8. Provide Post-Storm Assistance
Even after the storm passes, clients may need assistance with rebooking flights, extending accommodations or filing insurance claims. Be prepared to assist with these logistical needs, ensuring a smooth recovery from the disruption.
Conclusion:
As a travel advisor, your clients rely on your expertise to navigate the challenges of natural disasters like hurricanes. By staying informed, being proactive and maintaining open communication, you can ensure their safety and provide excellent service even during difficult times. With proper preparation, you can turn a potentially stressful situation into one where your clients feel confident in their travel decisions. If you are interested in becoming a member of our OAL Travel Network Team, please feel free to explore our program options at https://oaltravelnetwork.com/our-programs/.
