Over the past few days, Hurricane Melissa has shown us how quickly travel dreams can unravel. This slow-moving storm exploded into a Category 5 hurricane, battering some of the Caribbean’s top family vacation destinations — from Jamaica and the Dominican Republic to the Turks & Caicos. Flights have been grounded, resorts temporarily shuttered, and travelers left wondering what happens next.

As a travel advisor, I’ve been following it closely, helping clients navigate cancellations and rebookings. But before I entered this industry, I’ll admit — I used to think travel insurance was an unnecessary extra. I figured, “What could really go wrong?” I’ve since learned the answer: plenty. And it’s not just about hurricanes — it’s flight delays, illness, family emergencies, and the countless surprises that can disrupt even the best-planned trip.

The Real Value of Travel Insurance

Travel insurance isn’t about selling fear — it’s about protecting your investment and your peace of mind. When you’ve worked hard, saved up, and planned a special trip, insurance gives you flexibility and security.

A strong policy can:

• Reimburse you for nonrefundable costs if weather or illness forces you to cancel.
• Cover medical emergencies abroad, where your regular health insurance may not apply.
• Protect you if your luggage is lost or delayed for days.
• Help you rebook or refund your trip if an airline cancels flights due to storms or mechanical issues.

It’s the kind of protection that you don’t appreciate — until you really need it.

A Tale of Two Families

Imagine two families, both planning a fall break getaway to Jamaica.

Family A worked with a travel advisor who recommended comprehensive Caribbean travel insurance. When news broke that Hurricane Melissa was strengthening, their policy allowed them to cancel before departure. They were fully reimbursed for flights, resort stays, and excursions — and easily rebooked for a later date once conditions improved. Their biggest headache was rearranging their time off.

Family B, however, decided to skip the coverage to “save a little.” When the storm hit, their flights were canceled and their all-inclusive resort temporarily closed. The airline offered flight credits but not refunds, and the resort required them to rebook within a short window. Without insurance, they lost thousands — and their much-anticipated family vacation turned into disappointment and frustration.

The difference wasn’t luck. It was preparation.

A Safety Net for Modern Travelers

As advisors, we can’t control the weather, but we can help travelers plan for the unpredictable. That’s why I emphasize travel insurance for every trip — whether it’s a Caribbean getaway, a European river cruise, or a quick long weekend.

It’s not just for hurricanes, either. Policies can protect you from:

• Unexpected illness (even COVID-related cancellations)
• Job loss or schedule changes before your trip
• Missed connections or delayed flights
• Family emergencies back home

With so many variables, travel insurance has become as essential as your passport.

Peace of Mind Is Priceless

The truth is, travel insurance isn’t about expecting the worst — it’s about traveling smart. It lets families plan their adventures with confidence, knowing they’re covered when life takes an unexpected turn.

When you’ve seen as many storms, delays, and detours as I have, you stop viewing insurance as optional. It’s part of responsible travel — and one of the simplest ways to protect your memories, your investment, and your sanity.

Because no one can predict the weather, but you can prepare for it.