Overpacking continues to be the most common mistake the travellers say the continue to make, according to the Fall 2024 Global Rescue Traveller Sentiment and Safety Survey. A third of travellers (32%) admitted overpacking was their top travel blunder in 2024, followed by booking flights with connections instead of direct flights (13%) and an overly ambitious itinerary (12%).
“Overpacking is a persistent traveller pitfall,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies. “Travellers often fall into the trap of overpacking. We’ve all been there – trying to pack for every possible scenario. However, overpacking leads to excess baggage fees, difficulty navigating airports, and frustration while travelling. Packing light helps avoid these hassles and streamlines your journey.”
The second most reported traveller mistake was flying with connections instead of nonstop, a traveller error that had not made the list until this year. “Flying with connections often results in longer travel times, increasing the risk of missed flights due to delays,” Richards said. “Layovers can be physically exhausting and introduce more chances for lost luggage or other complications compared to the convenience of direct flights.”
Planning itineraries that are too ambitious continues to be in the top three list of most common mistakes travellers make. “Travellers must accept that they won’t see everything and immersing themselves will be more rewarding than speed-touring,” Richards said. “An overly ambitious itinerary may seem like a great idea, but the reality often leaves travellers exhausted and missing out on the experiences they wanted.”
The survey revealed that 22% of respondents enrolled in a trusted traveller program, such as Nexus, TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR, in 2024, with another 49% already being members. The primary motivation for joining these programs was to speed up security procedures (54.03%), followed by faster customs clearance (34.68%).
“Trusted traveller programs are an invaluable tool for frequent fliers,” said Richards. “They provide a seamless experience, saving time and eliminating unnecessary stress at the airport.”
With language barriers presenting an ongoing challenge for global travellers, more than half of respondents (55%) now rely on translation apps to bridge communication gaps. Fifty-one percent of travellers use these apps to translate conversations, while 43% use them for reading traffic signs and menus. “The rise of translation apps has made travel easier and more enjoyable for millions of people,” Richards noted. “These apps enable travellers to communicate effectively in a foreign language, whether reading a menu, navigating traffic signs, or engaging in conversation with locals.”
As the travel surge continues, technological security and communications advancements improve traveller convenience and safety.
“Travellers today are better equipped to navigate international challenges, thanks to the rise of tools like translation apps, trusted traveller programs, and real-time travel advisory services. However, preparation is still key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip,” said Richards.
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