The truth is that the weather can end up playing a part in your vacation no matter where you travel or when you travel there. It is one of those factors that you just can't really factor in. Keep the weather from ruining your good time by taking a few simple steps.

Watch the weather for where you are going (and along the path that you are traveling). The Weather Channel even gives an hourly report about airport delays. Bad weather at your destination (or one of the legs of your flight) could mean a cancellation or problem with connections. Check with your airline before you take off so that you can remedy problems before they arise.

Change connections. If you find out about weather and are able to change your flight plan then you might want to go ahead and change the route and connecting flights. Call the airline companies 800 number and let them know the situation.

Know the rules. Airlines and hotels can cancel due to bad weather and some may not have to refund your money - it depends on their policies. Find out in advance and work with those companies that have weather related guarantees.

Purchase travel insurance. The more expensive your travel plans then the more protection you will want to have in case of bad weather. Travel insurance can get you a reimbursement of your travel expenses or pay for another trip at another time if the weather disrupts or cancels your travel plans.

You may not be able to control the weather, but you can keep bad weather from ruining your travel experience.