5 on Your Side: Act fast if you're dealing with canceled vacation plans from Hurricane Ian

You have rights you have if your travel plans are interrupted.

So far, thousands flights have been canceled because of Ian. That's led to many people seeking refunds.

The good news is canceling your lodging is often the easiest part of your trip to nullify.

But you need to act fast.

According to AAA, the industry standard for hotels is a 48-hour cancelation notice. Some will even let you cancel 24 hours ahead.

You need to check your policy. If you booked at a discounted rate, without a refund policy, you’re probably out of luck.

If you booked through a travel site like Expedia.

You’ll need to cancel through them as their cancelation policy is usually in alignment with the hotel you booked at. If you snagged a deal such as an 'unpublished rate,' meaning you didn’t get to see the hotel you booked at in exchange for a lower rate. you won’t be able to cancel.

Now let’s talk about vacation rentals.

If you had the chance to purchase insurance and turned it down, the rental does not owe you money in that case.

Florida also requires rentals to refund your money if an evacuation is ordered.

Many Airbnb hosts have their own individual policy so be sure to check.

This is why 5 on Your Side stresses purchasing the trip insurance. It often costs a little extra, but can save you during times like this.

If your flight is canceled, the airline has to give you a refund.

A significant schedule change or delay should also end in a refund if you want it. However, there is not a definition of "significant delay." The U.S. Department of Transportation actually decides on a case-by-case basis.

Travelers should understand that if you have to rent a car or hotel room or buy extra meals because of a delayed or canceled flight, the airline is not required to cover those costs.