Snowbirds — or seasonal travelers — seek to leave behind the freezing cold and the winter blues for sunnier skies. They are the ones who can’t wait to swap snow boots for flip-flops and leave their snow-covered driveway for sandy beaches.
However, with natural disasters becoming more frequent, it’s essential for seasonal travelers to plan with caution. If you’re looking for the ideal destination for the upcoming colder season, Point2 put together a quick guide to not only find your dream spot but also do so with safety in mind.
What is a Snowbird?
A snowbird is a seasonal traveler, often a retiree, who migrates to warmer climates during the harsher winter months from around November to March or even April. However, with remote work increasing in popularity, younger generations are also joining in on this trend.
Regardless of age, one thing’s for sure: Today’s snowbirds should be guided by caution as much as they are by the desire for flexibility and warmth.
Typically, the most popular destinations for snowbirds include spots in Florida, Hawaii, California, and Arizona. But, given the rising risks of hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters, snowbirds are diversifying their itinerary to include places with fewer natural disaster risks.
Choosing A Destination: Safety First
With recent headlines, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of weather risks. Here’s how to pick a snowbird destination with safety as a top priority:
Stay Informed & Up to Date
If you’re considering traditional snowbird hotspots along the Gulf Coast, for instance, be aware that hurricanes have become increasingly active, causing significant damage. While Florida remains popular for its warm winters, serious storms make it crucial to choose properties equipped with hurricane shutters, proper building codes, and evacuation plans. If need be, postponing your snowbirding plans is always an option to consider.
Avoid High-risk Areas
Snowbirds might want to consider destinations further inland or that are less prone to hurricanes, such as Arizona, New Mexico, or even certain off-coast parts of California. That’s because during peak storm season (June through November), heavy rains are likely to occur in otherwise desirable places in Florida, Texas, and the Carolinas.
Watch Out for Wildfires
If you choose to rent in areas with mild winters, such as Southern California and parts of Arizona, bear in mind that they can experience wildfires. However, these fire-prone areas still offer properties away from high-risk zones. Tucson, for instance, is generally considered safer, yet snowbirds should always check for potential fire risk in the area.
Be Cautious of Coastal Risks
Yes, even outside of hurricane season, some spots remain prone to flooding. Be aware that areas along the Gulf Coast (including parts of Louisiana and Texas) can experience floods or storm surges after hurricanes. So, go for higher-elevation areas or places further from the coastline to minimize these risks and be on the safe side — literally.
Renting Safely as a Snowbird
Given the unpredictability of severe weather patterns, renting is an ideal choice for those looking to escape winter while minimizing risks. The main reasons are:
- Flexibility to relocate: If a natural disaster is on the horizon, you can leave without being tied down. Renting gives you mobility to pick another, safer destination for the season or even return home earlier than planned.
- No long-term commitment: Renting gives you the freedom to explore various destinations, allowing you to diversify areas and adjust your plans according to weather conditions and disaster alerts.
Finding the right rental is key to enjoying your snowbird experience without worrying about extreme weather. Picking a safe and secure rental is the first step in doing so, which is why it’s important to:
Start Early
Snowbird rentals, especially in safer and more in-demand areas, get booked early in the year. Start your search months ahead of time, or even one year in advance. In light of increased disaster displacement, research if the area has a history of natural disasters before doing so.
Inquire About Safety Features
If you’re renting in hurricane or wildfire zones, make sure the property is up to current building codes for disaster preparedness. Always ask about safety features like storm-resistant windows, backup generators, and flood insurance.
Look for Evacuation Plans
It’s important to understand the local evacuation plans — regardless of whether you are renting in high-risk areas or not. Always make sure you know what to do in case of a natural disaster and that the rental property you choose provides clear guidelines.
Pack Smart, Stay Ready
Whether you’re traveling to areas with potential risks or not, packing with safety in mind is crucial. On top of staying updated on local conditions with apps like AccuWeather or The Weather Channel, your snowbirding checklist should always include:
- Emergency kit: Pack essential emergency items, including a flashlight, first-aid kit, bottled water, and non-perishable food.
- Insurance documents: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers natural disasters, and bring copies of any necessary health or renters’ insurance.
While hurricane and wildfire risks limit some destinations, the U.S. still offers plenty of sunny spots that offer both warmth and security. Sure, escaping the cold is wonderful, but staying safe is essential. And, with the right planning and flexibility, snowbirds can enjoy a worry-free escape and return home as refreshed as spring after winter.
