Is bad weather a covered reason for cancellation?

Last Updated: October 25, 2013March 29, 2024

Short Answer

Most policies include coverage if you have to cancel a trip due to inclement weather or a hurricane. However, in order for you to be eligible for Trip Cancellation due to weather, the weather event or the delay caused by weather must meet your policy’s requirements.

More Detail

In order to be covered to cancel due to a hurricane or inclement weather, most policies require there is a complete cessation of your common carrier for a certain period of time before you are covered. This typically ranges between 12 and 48 hours. This benefit also provides coverage if your accommodation at your destination is rendered uninhabitable, or there is a mandatory evacuation at your destination. Some policies will also provide coverage if there is a hurricane warning issued before or during your trip.

The most lenient Trip Cancellation policies provide coverage for inclement weather, which requires a complete cessation of your common carrier for any length of time, and does not require a specific time period to pass before the Trip Cancellation benefit provides coverage.

In every case, specific events relating to the weather must trigger the Trip Cancellation benefit. You cannot simply decide that you don’t want to travel because of the threat of bad weather. If you want to be covered for this option, we recommend purchasing a policy with Cancel for Any Reason coverage.

This information can vary based on the travel insurance policy. Please review the policy certificate to verify coverage. If you have questions about a specific policy, please contact us directly at 800-240-0369. Our customer service representatives are available from 8am to 10pm ET seven days a week and are delighted to help!