Travel & the Weather: Planning Smart in an Unpredictable World
- Jenny Lou Faber
- Aug 8
- 3 min read
Key Takeaways:
Research your destination’s seasonal weather patterns — don’t assume it’s “good” all year.
Build flexibility into your plans.
Pack for surprises.
Stay informed while traveling.
Keep a positive, adaptable mindset.
When Nature Calls the Shots
Right now, as I’m writing this, the Oregon coast is under a tsunami advisory. The ocean looks deceptively calm, but my phone is pinging with alerts — a good reminder that weather is one of the few things no traveler can control.
Whether it’s a typhoon in the Philippines, a snowstorm in Japan, or a hurricane in Florida, weather doesn’t just influence your comfort — it can change your entire trip. The good news? With a little preparation, you can stay safe, flexible, and still have an amazing time.
Planning Ahead: Weather as a Travel Factor
🌏 Research Seasonal Patterns
Japan: Typhoon season runs roughly August–October, and the rainy season (tsuyu) hits in June. Winters can be brutally cold in Hokkaido, but magical for skiing. Cherry blossom season in March/April can also bring unpredictable rain.
Southeast Asia:
Thailand’s monsoon season varies by coast — the Andaman Sea side (Phuket, Krabi) is wet May–October, while the Gulf side (Koh Samui) gets heavier rain November–January.
Indonesia and Malaysia see the heaviest rain November–March.
Vietnam has two distinct monsoon seasons depending on the region — research your specific cities.
Florida: Hurricane season runs June–November, peaking in August–October.
If you can, plan for shoulder seasons — fewer crowds and less extreme weather — but still do your research on local quirks.
📅 Build Flexibility Into Your Trip
Add a buffer day before important events or flights.
Keep at least one “open” day in your itinerary for rescheduling activities.
Avoid over-packing your schedule so weather changes don’t ruin everything.
📲 Check More Than Once
Use apps like Windy, AccuWeather, or Weather Underground for detailed forecasts.
Recheck a few days before you leave and every morning of your trip.
Sign up for location-specific alerts — in Japan, you can use apps like Safety Tips; in the U.S., FEMA alerts are reliable.
Weather-Ready Packing
🧳 Essentials
Packable rain jacket & small umbrella.
Waterproof shoes or sandals.
Quick-dry clothing for humid or rainy destinations.
Portable power bank (storms can knock out power).
Mini flashlight or headlamp.
📎 Documents & Backups
Keep digital copies of passports, IDs, and reservations.
Have the phone number and address of your hotel written down in case you can’t access your phone.
On the Ground: Adapting in Real-Time
🌊 Responding to Warnings
Tsunamis: Move inland and to higher ground immediately. Do not wait to “see what happens.” Follow local evacuation signs — Japan and coastal SE Asia often have posted routes.
Typhoons/Hurricanes: Stay indoors, away from windows, and avoid unnecessary travel. Stock up on bottled water and snacks.
Extreme Heat: Limit midday activity, hydrate constantly, and know the signs of heatstroke.
🧭 Pivot Like a Pro
If your snorkel trip gets canceled due to rain, have a list of backup indoor activities — cultural centers, cooking classes, museums, or hot springs. In SE Asia, even stormy days can be great for spa time or food tours.
Mindset: Staying Safe Without Panic
You can’t control the weather, but you can control your response. Being prepared reduces stress and keeps your trip from going completely off the rails. Sometimes, unexpected weather forces you into experiences you wouldn’t have planned — and those can be the most memorable stories.
Would you like a free printable checklist with this information?
Comments