We’ve had record high temperatures across the country. It worries those of us who take vacations in the Summer. How does climate change affect your travels?

Can you cancel if temperatures go above a certain level? Most travel insurance provides cancellation coverage, if weather causes complete cancellation of your common carrier (airline for instance). The cessation has to be a minimum of 48 hours. Insurance does not cover heat waves! There are related situations, which might be covered: i.e. some European countries like Portugal have had more wildfires. If your hotel is damaged or destroyed, you might have a claim. Note: you can always purchase “Cancel for Any Reason” insurance (again read its small print terms). Be aware that heat waves can occur without warning. I was in Paris a few years ago when the heat wave ended; then a fury of heat unexpectedly blew up from Spain.

Turbulence and Flights. Climate change is increasing turbulence.  Clear Air Turbulence is more frequent because of temperature changes in the upper atmosphere. Faster winds swirl in the jet stream. Don’t freak out. Forecasting turbulence is sophisticated and pilots announce it earlier than in the past. I notice when I fly that the pilot more often announces upcoming turbulence. He/she might even ask staff to take their seats. The announcement is often followed only by minor bumps, sometimes no turbulence. More caution and better safety for airline staff are reasons, so don’t get all angsty with the notice. A pilot friend once assured us with the following statement. Think of being on the ocean and understand turbulence is simply like waves. Naturally, one should always wear a seat belt in calm or bumpy rides.

European hotels and air conditioning. If you travel this summer, be aware that air conditioning, as we know it, is not the same as climate control. The latter is fine for most of us as it keeps rooms around 70ish. If you live in arctic air conditioning as many Americans prefer, you might not like climate control. Don’t pump the wall monitor; it will not go above its set range.

High altitude destinations are more and more popular. Temperature lowers 3.5-5 degrees each 1000 ft in altitude.  So while we are 100 in NY, Ixtapan Resort in Mexico when our group goes in August (at 6100 ft) will have a high of 79, even below 79 if cloudy. Mexico City where you land for Ixtapan, should max at 75.

Having said all this, travel seasons are changing except for people tied into school schedules. Shoulder season in cooler areas is warmer: i.e. from September onwards is now a popular time to travel.  Cape Cod, a traditional Summer beach getaway, is experiencing longer seasons, with special events being held through November. Some beach resorts are marketing their coastal wildlife instead of selling only beach. Interestingly beach goers are deterred by rain rather than by temperatures.

Remote work allows for non-peak travel.  Travelers living in hurricane affected areas chose off peak as they worry about warm weather hurricanes. Travel providers recognize the changes and have increased off-peak rates. Don’t expect deals off peak anymore; we know that from our October 3-11 2025 Umbria and Tuscany hotels. The exception on prices this Summer is air travel costs are lower due to fewer international passengers. I found also that airlines introduce new ways to use your ff miles.

 Travel is a contributor to climate change. Don’t forget that sad fact. Do what you can at home and abroad to minimize the effects: trains vs flights, public transportation vs. taxis, and walk more.

Here’s an interesting article on the topic.