What to Do if You Experience a Natural Disaster Abroad

How to Stay Safe and Adapt During Travel Emergencies

Natural disasters are unpredictable, dangerous, and especially disruptive when they strike far from home. Whether it’s a hurricane, earthquake, or volcanic eruption, these events can derail your plans, threaten your safety, and limit access to essentials like shelter or medical care.

While you can’t control when or where disasters happen, you can take steps to minimize their impact. If you’re caught abroad during one, the right preparation and natural disaster insurance can mean the difference between disruption and disaster.

This article will explain how to prepare before, respond to, and recover from a natural disaster, and how travel insurance can serve as a critical safety net when the unexpected strikes.

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What Is Considered a Natural Disaster?

Natural disasters include events caused by weather or geological forces, such as:

• Earthquakes
• Tsunamis
• Volcanic eruptions
• Hurricanes and typhoons
• Wildfires and forest fires
• Flooding

Some disasters, like tropical storms or severe weather, may or may not be classified as natural disasters depending on the source, but they can still pose serious risks.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Natural Disasters?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance with natural disaster coverage typically protects you against large-scale events like hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, and volcanic eruptions.

However, keep in mind that what counts as a “natural disaster” can vary by provider. Some include tropical storms or severe weather under this coverage, while others treat them separately.

For this reason, it’s essential to check your policy’s specific definitions and exclusions before you travel.

Here are key ways travel insurance can help if disaster strikes abroad:

• Trip Cancellation: If your trip is canceled due to a natural disaster, such as a storm, earthquake, or evacuation order, trip insurance may reimburse you for nonrefundable prepaid costs, often up to 100% of your trip value.
• Evacuation Coverage: If you’re forced to leave an area due to a wildfire, tsunami warning, or other emergency, your policy may cover evacuation and transportation expenses.
• Medical Care: If you’re injured during a natural disaster, travel medical insurance helps cover emergency treatment, hospital stays, and even medical evacuation or repatriation, if needed.
• Travel Delays: If a disaster causes weather-related delays, your policy may reimburse costs like meals, hotel stays, or rebooking fees for a certain number of days.

These benefits offer peace of mind and financial protection, helping ensure you’re not left to face a crisis alone while abroad.

However, it’s essential to understand that travel policies have limits. Natural disaster insurance coverage may be denied if you engage in high-risk activities or ignore official travel warnings.

Don’t Risk It! If you plan to participate in adventurous or higher-risk activities, such as hiking near an active volcano or traveling during hurricane season, consider adding optional coverage, like an adventure sports rider or high-risk zone add-on, to stay fully protected.

The Best Travel Insurance Plans with Natural Disaster Coverage

If you’re traveling to areas susceptible to hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, or other natural disasters, selecting a plan with strong emergency and evacuation features is essential. Below are three standout options:

Trawick Safe Travels Voyager — Trip Protection Insurance

Best for: U.S. citizens and residents traveling internationally who want flexibility and comprehensive coverage for weather-related disruptions.

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption: This policy covers cancellations or trip interruptions due to hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, and other disasters that render your destination uninhabitable.
• Travel Delay: Reimburses reasonable lodging and meals if weather events delay your trip.
• Emergency Medical: Offers up to $250,000 in primary medical coverage.
• Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR): Optional upgrade allowing cancellation for any reason (must be added within 21 days of initial trip deposit).
• Emergency Evacuation: Includes up to $1,000,000 for evacuations due to medical and natural disaster emergencies.

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IMG Patriot Platinum — Travel Medical Insurance

Best for: International and U.S. travelers needing high coverage limits (up to $8,000,000) and wide-ranging emergency support in disaster-prone regions.

• Natural Disaster Benefit: Up to $250 per day for up to 5 days if you must evacuate from your paid accommodations due to a natural disaster.
• Emergency Medical Evacuation: Coverage up to the maximum limit to transport you to the nearest adequate medical facility.
• Evacuation Plus: This service is included at no extra cost for Platinum members and covers up to $25,000 for non-life-threatening medical evacuations requiring hospitalization.
• Travel Intelligence: For Platinum members, IMG’s Travel Intelligence provides location-specific alerts across ten threat categories, including health, transportation, security, and weather.
• Optional Add-On: The Trip Cancellation, Interruption & Travel Delay Rider reimburses prepaid, non-refundable expenses if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to natural disasters. (This rider is available to U.S. citizens and residents only.)

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MedjetHorizon Travel Protection — Emergency Evacuation Insurance

Best for: U.S., Canadian, and Mexican residents under age 75 who want peace of mind when traveling to high-risk destinations where fast, flexible evacuation options matter most.

• Travel Security Services: 24/7 access to FocusPoint International’s Crisis Response Center for assistance with threats such as natural disasters, terrorism, and political unrest.
• Air Medical Transport: Hospital-to-hospital transport (domestic and international) if you’re hospitalized more than 150 miles from home.
• Crisis Response: Global evacuation, emergency translation, legal/medical referrals, and communication support for families.
• Emergency Medical Cash Advance: Up to $60,000 if an upfront payment is required by a hospital that doesn’t accept credit cards.

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Before You Travel

Natural disasters abroad can strike with little warning, but being prepared and knowing how to respond can protect your safety and reduce stress, especially if you’re visiting regions prone to hurricanes, wildfires, or earthquakes.

Pack Smart for Disaster-Prone Destinations

• Designate a Safety Contact: Choose a trusted friend or family member back home to serve as your emergency contact. Share your travel plans with them, and check in when you arrive, depart, or change locations. If a natural disaster occurs, they can help coordinate assistance or alert authorities on your behalf.
• Print and Pack Essential Documents: Bring printed copies of your itinerary, flight tickets, hotel reservations, emergency contacts, and travel policy details. Hard copies don’t rely on Wi-Fi or charged devices, and are easy to share. Leave a copy with your safety contact as well.
• Dress for Emergencies. Even if you’re headed to a beach resort or city break, pack one practical outfit and a pair of sturdy walking shoes. This can double as your travel outfit and will be essential if evacuation or rough conditions arise.
• Pack a Basic Medical Kit: Include bandages, common medications, and first-aid essentials in case you can’t access medical supplies right away.
• Monitor Travel Advisories: Before and during your trip, monitor official travel advisories from your government or trusted sources. These provide up-to-date information on natural disasters, security concerns, and recommended precautions in your destination.

Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

If you’re a U.S. citizen traveling abroad, it’s a good idea to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

Enrolling your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate allows them, and your friends and family back home, to contact you quickly in case of a natural disaster or other emergency.

When you sign up for STEP, you can also download the Smart Traveler app, which delivers real-time alerts, safety updates, evacuation notices, and official guidance during events like hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, and more.

This timely information can be critical for making informed decisions and staying safe while abroad.

Registering with STEP is free, easy, and one of the smartest ways to stay connected and prepared when traveling to disaster-prone regions.

During a Natural Disaster Warning

If you receive a warning about an impending natural disaster, such as a hurricane, wildfire, earthquake, or flood, it’s crucial to stay calm, informed, and ready to take immediate action.

Stay Informed and Connected

• Find reliable local sources for news and weather, such as TV, radio, or trusted news apps.
• Sign up for apps from your airline or transportation provider to receive timely alerts.
• Use emergency alert systems like the Smart Traveler app for real-time updates and official instructions.
• Keep your phone, devices, and travel batteries fully charged, and carry backup power banks to stay connected even during outages.
• Update your social media or contact your designated safety person back home at least once daily to let them know your status.

Pack Smart and Plan Ahead

Prepare a “go bag” with your most important items, including passports, insurance records, tickets, medications, devices, snacks, and drinks.

This bag should be easy to grab if you need to leave in a hurry. Each traveler should have their own go bag.

Additional tips:

• If you have a vehicle, keep it charged or fueled.
• Keep extra charged travel batteries for your devices.
• Have printed maps of your area as a backup.
• Carry some cash, since power outages may disable card payments.
• Pack portable snacks and drinks sufficient to skip two to four meals if necessary.

Knowing When to Cut Your Trip Short

Reliable natural disaster warnings are valid reasons to cut a trip short or change your travel plans. If local authorities issue evacuation orders or conditions become unsafe, prioritize your safety – don’t hesitate to leave early.

Before you go, notify your airline, accommodation, and travel companions about your plans. Keep records of warnings, evacuation notices, and any communications with officials or your insurer.

These documents can be important if you need to file a natural disaster insurance claim or seek assistance from your provider.

Remember: When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution – just get out!

During a Natural Disaster

If you find yourself caught in a natural disaster while traveling, these tips can help you stay safe and manage the situation:

• Stay Calm and Informed: Monitor local news and weather updates. Contact your embassy or consulate for advice. Register for programs like STEP to receive alerts via phone or email.
• Follow Local Guidance: A natural disaster is not the time to sightsee or take photos. As a visitor, you may become a liability. Follow instructions from local authorities or your lodging hosts, especially if evacuation orders are given. Avoid approaching the disaster zone. The best way to help is by keeping yourself and your companions safe and out of the way.
• Stay Together: Staying close to your travel companions makes it easier to get help and stay safe during an emergency.
• Communicate with Airlines: Contacting airlines during disasters can be difficult. Use airline apps or texts for flight updates. If traveling with others, designate one person to handle communications and keep all booking numbers handy.
• Know Your Coverage: Natural disaster travel insurance often covers hurricanes and other severe weather, but always check your policy for specific coverage and exclusions. Keep your insurance app or documents handy to access support quickly.
• Maintain a Routine and Stay Alert: Eat regular meals and stay hydrated if you’re stuck waiting. Avoid alcohol to keep your focus sharp if you need to act quickly.

After a Natural Disaster

Once the immediate emergency has passed and you’re safe, your focus will shift to managing travel plans and insurance claims.

Here’s how to proceed:

Use Your Travel Insurance for Claims and Support

1. Document the Incident: Take photos or videos of any damage to your belongings or accommodations. Keep all receipts for emergency expenses like accommodation, transportation, or medical treatment. Save official notices, evacuation orders, or disaster-related communications.
2. Contact Your Insurance Provider Quickly: Report your situation as soon as possible. Follow their instructions to file claims for trip interruption, medical treatment, evacuation assistance, or other covered expenses.
3. Keep Copies of All Communications:  To ensure a smooth claims process, maintain detailed records of emails, messages, and phone calls with your insurer.
4. Review Your Policy Coverage: Revisit your policy to understand what is covered and any specific exclusions related to natural disasters. Knowing your coverage will help set realistic expectations and prevent surprises.
5. Submit Claim Forms Promptly: To speed up processing, complete and submit all required claim forms and supporting documents immediately.
6. Keep Your Emergency Contact Informed: Update your designated safety contact or family members about your claim status and any assistance you’re receiving from your insurer.
7. Follow Up Regularly: Maintain communication with your insurance provider to track your claim progress. Respond quickly to any requests for additional information to avoid delays.
8. Use Assistance Services: Many policies include 24/7 emergency assistance. Don’t hesitate to use these services if you need help with medical evacuation, emergency accommodation, or other urgent support.

Following these steps will help you manage claims efficiently while focusing on your recovery and safety.

Maintain Your Health and Routine

• Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Ration clean water and food if supplies are limited.
• Keep Medications Handy: Access medical care if necessary and keep medications close.
• Get Rest and Stay Calm. Prioritize your mental and physical recovery. Disasters are exhausting, and rest helps you make better decisions.
• Maintain Good Hygiene: Wash hands, use sanitizer, and properly dispose of waste to avoid illness.

Stay Connected and Informed

• Stay Connected: Communicate regularly with your emergency contacts and family.
• Monitor Updates: Continue following local news and weather advisories. Secondary risks like aftershocks, floods, or landslides may follow the initial event.
• Use Embassy Resources: If needed, contact your embassy for help with documents, legal support, or relocation assistance.

Plan Your Next Steps Carefully

• Evaluate Travel Plans: Based on safety guidance and conditions, decide whether to continue your trip, return home, or relocate.
• Coordinate with Providers: Inform airlines, hotels, or tour operators of your decisions and keep records of changes or cancellations.
• Be Patient and Flexible: Disaster recovery takes time. Adjust your plans accordingly while keeping safety your top priority.

How to Stay Safe During Specific Types of Natural Disasters

Natural disasters vary by region. Some, like hurricanes and wildfires, are seasonal and common, while others, like earthquakes and tsunamis, can strike without warning, especially in active zones like the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Knowing what to do in these situations can make all the difference. Below are safety tips and insurance insights for the most common disasters travelers may encounter abroad.

What To Do When a Storm Happens While Traveling

Take Shelter Early: Find a protected indoor location to wait out the storm. If you’re in an isolated area or on a small island, move to a central location or the nearby mainland as early as possible.

If you are told to leave a storm area, do so sooner rather than later. Driving on unfamiliar roads during a storm is highly stressful, and boat rides in choppy waters are uncomfortable and dangerous.

Watch for Tornadoes: Some storms, especially in places like the American Midwest, may trigger tornadoes. Use designated tornado shelters if available and follow all local emergency instructions.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Storms?

Yes, most travel policies cover storm-related disruptions, including delays, property damage, extended stays, and injuries.

Check your policy for terms like storm, hurricane, typhoon, bad weather, or inclement weather to understand what’s covered.

Important: Always follow official storm warnings and evacuation orders. Ignoring them may void your coverage.

What To Do When a Flood or Tsunami Happens While Traveling

Move to Higher Ground: If a flood or tsunami warning is issued, evacuate immediately to higher ground or a high floor inside a sturdy building.

Stay away from large bodies of water, beaches, rivers, and flooded areas, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.

Evacuate Immediately: If you’re staying at a beachside property and a tsunami warning is issued, leave immediately, regardless of the time of day.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Floods and Tsunamis?

Because earthquakes usually cause tsunamis, they are generally covered as natural disasters under most travel policies.

However, flood coverage varies depending on your policy and the cause of flooding.

Some policies cover floods caused by weather events, such as heavy rain, while others may exclude coverage for floods resulting from geological events.

For this reason, always review your policy carefully to understand what is included or excluded.

What To Do When a Wildfire Happens While Traveling

Evacuate Immediately: During a wildfire, also known as a “forest fire” or “bushfire” in some countries, follow all evacuation orders and leave the area quickly. Don’t wait or try to stay behind, even if locals do.

Avoid Danger Zones: You may see local people staying behind to protect property or assist emergency responders. However, the safest choice for you is to evacuate promptly and avoid the area.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Forest Fires?

Most travel plans cover wildfires as natural disasters, especially if caused by lightning or other natural events.

However, in some regions, such as Australia, traveling into an area with an active wildfire may void your coverage.

If a wildfire starts after you arrive and mandatory evacuations are ordered, you typically have grounds to cancel your trip and receive trip cancellation reimbursement.

If you are unsure, keep records of any local state of emergency or official travel advisories related to the wildfire.

What To Do When an Earthquake Happens While Traveling

Take Shelter Safely: During an earthquake, move to an open area outdoors or take cover under a sturdy table or piece of furniture.

Stay put until the shaking stops. If you’re in a high-rise building, follow instructions from the building’s safety team – they may assist with evacuation.

Be Prepared for Aftershocks: Most earthquakes are moderate but can still cause power outages, fuel shortages, and even trigger tsunamis.

Aftershocks or additional quakes may follow, so expect possible disruptions. Roads, bridges, and public transit might also be closed or delayed as authorities conduct safety inspections.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Earthquakes?

Travel policies almost always cover earthquakes as natural disasters. If a severe earthquake occurs at your destination before you arrive, you typically have grounds to cancel your trip and receive trip cancellation reimbursement.

What To Do When a Volcano Erupts While Traveling

Find Shelter or Evacuate: During a volcanic eruption, seek a protected indoor location immediately. If you are near an active volcano and it begins to rumble, evacuate the area without delay – eruptions can happen suddenly and without warning.

Expect Earthquakes and Disruptions: Volcanic eruptions often trigger earthquakes and cause major travel disruptions. Due to ash clouds and toxic fumes, flights may be canceled for days or weeks.

Be Cautious Visiting Active Volcanoes: Some tourists choose to visit active volcanoes, but this is a high-risk decision.

If things go wrong, travelers or their survivors are often surprised to find that travel and life insurance policies typically exclude coverage for injuries or incidents related to these visits.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Volcanic Eruptions?

Most travel plans cover volcanic eruptions and related hydrothermal events as natural disasters. However, like wildfires and earthquakes, traveling to an area with an active eruption may void your coverage.

If you receive warnings of a possible eruption that don’t happen, you can relax and continue your trip—maybe even with a few extra snacks in your bag!

Stay Prepared and Protected

Natural disasters can strike without warning and disrupt your travels in ways you never expect. While you can’t control when or where they happen, you can control how prepared and protected you are.

Having the right natural disaster travel insurance coverage is your best defense against unexpected expenses and stress when the unexpected occurs abroad.

Before you embark on your next trip, carefully explore and compare travel insurance options. Look for plans that offer comprehensive natural disaster protection tailored to your destination and activities.

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With the right coverage, you can travel with confidence, knowing that if nature throws a curveball, you have a safety net to rely on.

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Author: Emily Cotlier is a senior editor at International Citizens Insurance. She has made the move from the U.S.A. to New Zealand. For International Insurance, she clarifies international visa and immigration requirements, shares travel resources, and advises on relocation challenges. She’s traveled through five continents and Oceania, and she still loves to travel both in Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world.