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Hurricane-Proof Your Vacation

A little preparation can save big bucks

By Paul Stinson, Newser User

Posted Aug 17, 2008 2:21 PM CDT

(Newser) – The government’s storm-watching body upped this year’s hurricane forecast to include 14 to 18 named storms, which could spell trouble for travelers. Forbes offers tips to stem potential financial losses and prevent your Caribbean vacation from going south.

Know your risks: The National Hurricane Center offers a month-by-month historical snapshot of hot spots.

Watch predictions: Keep an eye on the National Weather Service, which can predict trouble 5 days out, and adjust accordingly.
Pack smart: Energy bars and water filtration pumps are indispensable if a hurricane shows up.
Safeguard with a "hurricane guarantee": Some hotels offer this policy, allowing for refunds and rebooking.
Know your airline: If you're headed to a high-risk area, avoid carriers with cancellation fees, or, better yet, purchase a fully-refundable ticket.

For the rest, click below:

[Images (4)]

[Videos (1)]

Energy or cereal bars are handy if the nearest store -or town- is underwater. Travel experts also recommend bringing a water filtration pump and masking tape (for affixing garbage bags onto windows). (ShutterStock)

This map taken from the National Hurricane Center shows storm traffic along the Atlantic for 2007. Those planning travel to hurricane hot spots can find out when regions are most likely to be struck. (National Weather Service/National Hurricane Center)

This image provided by NOAA shows Hurricane Bertha in July. Weather patterns can change at a moment's notice, making forecasting difficult. (AP Photo/NOAA)

This is one of the homes that has yet to be repaired from the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina in Grand Bayou, La., (AP Photo/Bill Haber)

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Hurricane-Proof Your Vacation