5 Things You Must Know When Hurricanes Hit Walt Disney World

5. Know Your Cancellation Policy

Any time a hurricane begins a projected path towards Florida and appears to simultaneously coincide with your upcoming Disney vacation, it’s time to start truly considering the risk and determining whether traveling to Disney for you and your family is wise. Unless there is a mandatory evacuation notice issued by state officials, the decision of whether or not to attempt travel falls solely on the vacationer. Luckily for those who have booked their vacation package directly through the Walt Disney Company, there is an option to cancel your trip without any penalty fees incurred. According to the official Walt Disney World website:

“If a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for the Orlando area—or for your place of residence—within 7 days of your scheduled arrival date, you may call in advance to reschedule or cancel your Walt Disney Travel Company Magic Your Way vacation package and most room only reservations (booked directly with Disney) without any cancellation or change fees imposed by Disney.”

This cancellation policy does not apply to third-party suppliers (such as airlines, hotels not booked through Disney directly, car rental companies, etc.).

Arguably, the biggest threat to a storm disrupting/ruining your Walt Disney World vacation might be travel related. Flights could be cancelled and airports could shut down due to an impending storm, and we’ve seen road closures as a result of storm surges. In addition, for good or bad, the aftermath of a storm could result in the extension of your vacation as you (and generally hordes of other travelers) make arrangements to get back home after a previously cancelled flight.