Travellers are becoming increasingly concerned about the evolving risks in international travel, according to a survey of frequent travellers conducted by travel risk experts Global Rescue. Based on the survey of its members, the company says nearly a third (30%) of respondents revealed that geopolitical instability is their most significant perceived travel risk.
The Global Rescue Fall 2024 Traveller Sentiment and Safety Survey further reported economic instability (12%) and terrorism (11%) as the next most concerning travel risks for 2025.
“From two ongoing wars to political and economic instability in multiple countries, travellers are keenly aware of how conflicts, currency destabilization and inflation can suddenly change the landscape of a destination,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and a member of the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board. “It’s important for travellers to be informed and have contingency plans in place, especially when travelling to regions where risks are elevated.
“Individuals are showing an increasing reliance on destination reports and travel advisories. International trip planning is no longer solely about securing restaurant reservations. Now pre-emptive emergency medical and security planning is part of the smart traveller’s preparation,” Richards emphasized.
“Travellers are taking their safety more seriously than ever before,” added Harding Bush, security director for Global Rescue.
Despite external travel threats like geopolitical instability, the survey identified that nearly half of travellers (45%) identified injury or illness as their biggest concern during international travel, making health risks the leading issue travellers worry about. Health and safety have always been a concern for travellers, but in today’s unpredictable global climate, it has become a top priority.”
“Whether it’s falling ill or experiencing an injury abroad, travellers are becoming more aware of the importance of having robust support systems in place,” Richards said. “Having the right resources available… can make all the difference when facing an emergency abroad.”
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