Navigating Travel in a World Affected by Climate Change

Last year experienced severe heat waves across Asia, Australia, the U.S., and much of Europe, alongside wildfires in Canada and Maui, and significant flooding in California. The summer of 2023 marked a record high temperature, as reported by the European Union’s climate change service. Additionally, this past winter was one of the warmest for the contiguous United States, according to a recent report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The ongoing warming of our planet is harming ecosystems both on land and in oceans, leading to devastating effects on populations globally and forcing communities to recover from destruction. Travel has also become increasingly complicated, as we must navigate a world fraught with natural disasters, uncertain in timing and location.

“Disasters are indiscriminate; they do not select where or when to strike. While each incident is distinct, it’s essential to ensure that individuals affected—be they residents or travelers—have access to crucial information for evacuation and assistance during their most critical times,” states Jaclyn Rothenberg, director of public affairs and spokesperson for FEMA, in her conversation with Dinogo.

Regardless of your destination or timing, the potential impacts of climate change are inescapable. This is why Paul Doucet, regional director of security, intelligence, and assistance at International SOS, advises that travelers should not underestimate the importance of careful planning in a world affected by climate change.

“Complacency can be fatal, and many people must actively combat it,” Doucet shared with me during a conversation for a Dinogo Unpacked podcast episode last year, which focused on travel and climate anxiety.

“Having a plan is essential—even if you think it’s unnecessary,” Doucet remarked, emphasizing that for travelers in an increasingly unpredictable world, it’s crucial to consider two key elements: “What is the most probable scenario, and what might the worst-case scenario be?”

Last fall, FEMA collaborated with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to release a public service announcement urging travelers to create a plan prior to their journeys and to prepare for potential natural disasters or severe weather events.

“We need to enhance our education efforts for travelers regarding all potential risks,” Rothenberg states. “Just as you check the weather to pack accordingly, we want to ensure that you’re informed about emergency evacuation options. Are you taking your pet with you? Not every shelter accommodates pets. Do you know your evacuation routes during a storm?”

Rothenberg suggests that travelers should download the FEMA app, which instructs users on how to prepare for various hazards and disasters. The app delivers real-time weather updates and alerts from the National Weather Service, assists users in locating nearby shelters for safe evacuation, and includes informative articles on what to do during emergencies such as extreme flooding.

The app provides guidance on assembling an emergency kit and outlines the necessary actions to take post-disaster. Rothenberg also advises travelers to ensure that someone at home is monitoring their property and can secure it if a severe storm occurs while they are away.

Her primary recommendation for anyone facing severe weather or natural disasters while traveling is to heed local authorities and follow their instructions. Additionally, it’s wise to always carry a backup battery for charging your cell phone in case of power loss, ensuring that you can maintain communication lines.

Another safeguard for travelers is to collaborate with a reliable travel adviser who can assist in rebooking flights, finding alternate accommodations, and making other arrangements during a disaster. When challenges arise, having someone making calls and utilizing their connections can be invaluable in getting you where you need to go.

“Travelers everywhere are increasingly concerned about climate change and the growing unpredictability of weather. Beyond high-profile natural disasters, many travelers express worry that climate change complicates their ability to anticipate—and evade—storms that could ruin a vacation, especially as travel spending reaches new heights,” states Daniel Price, co-founder of WeatherPromise, a company offering a weather guarantee that refunds trip costs in cases of adverse weather conditions.

In a world filled with uncertainty, travelers are encouraged to invest in travel insurance and carefully review the terms, as weather-related delays, cancellations, and expenses may not always be included in the coverage.

Price points out that the effects of extreme weather on impacted destinations are just the beginning; the growing unpredictability of severe storms also influences our travel methods—be it by plane, train, car, or cruise. “An increase in storms and turbulent conditions is leading to more frequent flight delays and cancellations,” Price explains.

A recent instance occurred earlier this week when flights had to be redirected from Dubai International Airport (DBX), the second busiest airport globally. The city experienced record rainfall, resulting in flooding at the airport, as reported by the Associated Press and other news outlets.

Price recommends that all travelers, regardless of the season, should download a flight-tracking app on their phones and save airline contact numbers to their address book. This way, they can stay informed and respond quickly if issues arise during their travels.

Some travelers are intentionally planning their vacations with climate change in mind. As summer travel becomes increasingly uncomfortable, companies like WeatherPromise are experiencing heightened interest from travelers seeking to explore during the off-peak season. Australian eco-adventure operator Aurora Expeditions is promoting 'coolcations'—trips to cooler locations to escape the intense summer heat exacerbated by climate change. Aurora offers polar cruises with activities such as kayaking among glaciers, chasing the Northern Lights, and cruising through fjords in Zodiacs.

Guidelines for organizing a trip amidst extreme weather conditions

Here are the steps that travelers can and should follow to effectively prepare for unexpected situations before embarking on their journeys:

• Consult a reliable travel adviser
• Purchase travel insurance
• Review the travel readiness recommendations from the TSA
• Download the FEMA app
• Stay updated on weather conditions
• Follow the guidance of local authorities
• Prepare an emergency kit
• Pack essential medications
• Carry a backup battery for your phone

As you venture out into the world equipped with your contingency plan, keep in mind that our actions during travel have a significant impact on the global landscape now more than ever.

“The world is an incredible place, and we should all explore it,” says Price. “Personally, I’ve become increasingly aware of my influence on the destinations I visit. This includes not only my carbon footprint but also the congestion at tourist hotspots and the effects that visitors have on local rental markets, shops, and dining establishments. It’s crucial for travelers to consider and engage with local communities, even when they’re halfway around the world.”