When the Unexpected Happens: How to Stay Prepared (and Grounded) When Travel Plans Take a Turn
If you’ve ever had a trip that didn’t go quite as planned, you know that mix of frustration, worry, and “what do I even do now?” that comes with it.
Travel, for all its magic and joy, is still life and life sometimes comes with curveballs.
Recently, my heart’s been heavy watching Hurricane Melissa tear through parts of Jamaica. That island holds such a special place in my heart; its rhythm, its warmth, its soul. And seeing it shaken like this reminded me of something I share with clients all the time: even the most seasoned traveler needs a plan for when things go left.
Because the truth is, things will happen. But with a little preparation and presence, you can navigate just about anything that comes your way.
Let’s talk about how…
1. Buy the Travel Insurance
I know… it’s not the sexy part of trip planning. But this right here? It’s one of the smartest moves you can make. Believe I know first hand. The key is grab coverage earlier than later.
Once a storm is named, it’s a “known event.” That means insurance companies won’t cover it, no cancellations, no reimbursements, no nothing.
I’ve seen travelers lose thousands because they waited until after a storm was announced. Don’t do that to yourself. Travel is an investment worth protecting.
Pro tip from me to you:
Buy your policy within 24–48 hours of your first trip payment. That’s when you’re eligible for the most comprehensive protection. Look for coverage that includes:
Trip interruption/cancellation due to weather
Emergency evacuation and medical coverage
Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) add-ons — the holy grail of flexibility
When a storm hits, that little piece of paper becomes peace of mind.
2. Stay Informed and Connected
When the weather turns, information is your lifeline. I tell my clients to set up a travel communication plan before they even leave home.
That means:
Registering with the U.S. Embassy’s STEP Program — it’s free and keeps you on the radar in case of emergencies.
Downloading your airline, hotel, and travel insurance apps for real-time updates.
Saving emergency contacts, embassy info, and travel documents both digitally and in print.
Keeping an external phone charger or two handy.
And here’s a personal tip: if a major storm is predicted while you’re abroad, don’t rush to move unless local authorities say so. I’ve seen travelers get stuck between airports or stranded trying to flee chaos. Sometimes, staying put and safe is the best move you can make. Most resorts have emergency protocols in place to navigate a storm. I loved who so many of my favorite resort parters took care of clients during Hurricane Melissa. There were reportedly 25,00 tourism in Jamaica when Melissa hit and the country thoughtfully managed its response with communication and resources to help locals and visitors.
3. Create a “Peace of Mind” Travel Kit
Let me paint you a picture. You’re sitting in an airport with delayed flights, no outlets in sight, and everyone’s stress levels through the roof. That’s when your travel kit becomes your best friend.
What’s in mine?
A portable charger (always fully charged before flying)
A refillable water bottle — hydration keeps you calm and clear-headed
Healthy snacks (because hunger and stress don’t mix)
Essential medications and a small first-aid kit
Travel-size wipes & sanitizer (thank me later)
A copy of your passport tucked away separately from the real one
You’ll thank yourself later for being prepared.
Pro tip from me to you: Pack extra medication in case of delays. One flight delay could turn into 3 days and just me you want to have your essential medication on hand.
4. Ground Yourself in Grace
When travel goes sideways, our first instinct is to fix it, fast. But sometimes the fix isn’t instant.
Here’s where grace steps in.
When a flight is canceled or a delay stretches into hours or days, it’s easy to get frustrated. But remember, the people helping you might be carrying their own weight, too. Airline agents, hotel staff, local guides… some of them have families at home facing the same storm.
Lead with empathy. Offer patience. Those small acts can shift energy in ways you can’t imagine.
Travel is more than where you go, it’s about how you move through the world and navigate new, unexpected situations.
5. Support and Show Up for Destinations That Need It
Watching Jamaica weather this storm reminded me how strong and resilient travel communities are. The people, the culture, the love, it all endures.
When these places reopen, your support matters more than ever.
Book locally owned stays and tours.
Eat at family-run restaurants.
Tip generously.
And if you can, donate to verified relief efforts to help communities rebuild.
Intentional travel isn’t just good for your soul, it helps the places you love heal and thrive.
The Real Lesson: Be Prepared, Stay Present, and Keep Traveling With Heart
We can’t control nature, flight delays, or global chaos. But what we can control is how we response and how we show up.
Being prepared doesn’t take the adventure out of travel, it gives you the confidence to lean into it, even when the unexpected happens.
So, the next time you plan that dream trip, whether it’s to the Caribbean, Europe, or your next wellness retreat plan with intention, pack with care, and travel with grace.
Because travel is more than just an escape, it’s about expansion in it’s truest form. And every twist, turn, and storm has something to teach us.
With gratitude & wanderlust,
Shanell, Founder & Luxury Travel Coach