5 ways to prepare for a hurricane when holidaying in Florida during hurricane season (from a Brit that used to live there)
Share
Planning a magical holiday to Florida during hurricane season? I take it you knew it was hurricane season when you booked it? The Atlantic hurricane season is from June 1st through November 30th. First of all if you didn't know and suddenly your worried — don’t panic. I’ve lived through it, quite literally every year when I lived in Orlando and Kissimmee for over a decade. (see 5 things you didn't know about me)
So I’ve been through a few Florida storms — and I can tell you: with the right prep, you’ll still have an unforgettable trip regardless of inclement weather.
Here’s what I personally recommend you do if a hurricane is forecast while you're holidaying in Florida.
1. Plan for the Worst, Hope for the Best
Florida storms can cause power outages, water shut-offs, and closures — though most hotels near the parks are extremely well-prepared.
Here’s what I grab and do when I hear a storm’s coming:
-
Charge everything: phones, power banks, tablets, even portable fans.
-
Battery-powered tea lights: safer than candles, and they give off a calming glow in the dark.
-
Baby wipes and bottled water: in case water access is interrupted.
🧳 I keep all of these in my Packing cubes, pouches and Toiletry Bag — they are waterproof, roomy, and easy to grab if you need to move rooms quickly.
2. Grab Essentials Before the Panic Buying Starts
As soon as locals get wind of a potential hurricane, (usually a few days before it makes land fall in Florida) supermarket shelves start to empty — fast. If you prefer to go to a larger supermarket such as walmart, publix, winn dixie etc. drive to them if you have a car or download the Uber or Lyft App and get a cab to your nearest store. (it's cheaper to shop where the locals shop than it is to buy stuff in your hotel shop, although in a pinch its fine)
Don’t wait. Head out early and grab:
-
Bottled water (for a family of 4 get a 24 - 48 pack, your hotel will still be supplying hot meals and lunch packs but you don't want to spend the up charge on bottled water.)
-
Snacks that don’t need refrigeration (granola bars, crisps, crackers)
-
Shelf-stable meals (tinned tuna lunch packs, peanut butter sandwiches, beef jerky)
-
Fresh fruit and yes — a little sweet treat
🎒 I always keep a stash in my Snack Bag — it makes storm prep (and theme park queuing) so much easier.
3. Have Entertainment That Doesn’t Rely on Power
If power or Wi-Fi goes out, or if the theme parks shut for a day or two, you’ll need something to pass the time — especially with kids.
Here is what I pack in my 'in case of inclement weather'pouch:
-
Uno and pack of cards
-
Dice games (a fun one is Farkle!)
-
Puzzle books or colouring books and felt tips
-
A good storybook or two
-
We also take travel size games like dominos, connect 4, scrabble etc.
Pro tip: To help my kids have fun as a distraction so they wouldn't be scared, we'd have a hurricane party and build a blanket fort with LED tea lights or torches and snacks (or full size cake for a treat..just saying!), making it feel more like an adventure than an emergency. If you've downloaded a movie to your laptop and its fully charged that's a great idea for your blanket fort evening.
4. Rest Easy – Central Florida Resorts Are Built Like Fortresses
Having lived there, I can tell you: Orlando hotels and resorts are some of the safest places to be during a storm.
They’re:
-
Built to withstand Category 5 hurricanes
-
Equipped with backup generators
-
Staffed with trained emergency personnel
In fact, evacuees from Florida’s coasts often go inland to Orlando to ride out the storm. If you’re near Disney, Universal, or I-Drive, you're in one of the best spots.
5. Prepare Children for Loud, Scary Noises
Even after weakening when the storm comes inland, hurricanes can still sound terrifying.
There’s:-
Loud wind
-
Torrential rain
-
Sudden rumbles and crashes
I always recommend:
-
Talking to kids in advance (keep it simple and reassuring)
-
Playing calming music or white noise
-
Having comfort toys, headphones, or a soft blanket close by
Something you may find interesting, local people are used to hurricanes and although have a healthy fear and respect, they are not scared. My sons have told me that allowing them to watch what was making the loud noises took away the scariness of it for them and as Orlando is the lightening capital of the USA, storm watching is a near everyday experience. PLEASE NOTE: once a hurricane is clearly within your vicinity and its no longer safe to watch, please pull the curtains and have your family as far away from the window as you can as a safety precaution.
💡 Bonus Tip: Tune In to Facts, Not Fear
Florida media can be... DRAMATIC to say the least. Stick to official channels:
-
National Hurricane Center
-
FEMA alerts
-
Your hotel staff or resort app
Yes, it’s important to stay informed — but don’t let the media scaremongering take over. The locals know what they’re doing. You’ll be guided safely if anything changes.
Final Thoughts From a Former Orlando Local
I created Parkboundco to help families feel more prepared, more relaxed, and more ready for the magic.
And that includes weathering a few literal storms along the way.
If you’re visiting Florida during hurricane season, don’t let it scare you off. Just pack smart, plan a little — and remember, you're still on holiday. Some of the coziest memories are made indoors with snacks, games, and a bit of laughter while the trees and rain dance outside.
-
Have a question about planning for Orlando? Send me a message. I might just have a tip you didn’t know you needed. 💫
Need a personal shopper for Disney or Universal Merch? Or really need that snack you dream about that you can only get from the USA? We do merch & grocery runs every month and on our vacay on request? ask us for details.
🛍️ Shop the essentials I swear by below.
FREE gifts for all orders over £10* | FREE Shipping on orders over £15
*Discounts applied at checkout
