International Travel Anxiety Climbs: Experts Share Safety Tips
Recent global events have caused a rise in anxiety among international travelers. Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the Russia-Ukraine war, and cartel violence in Mexico have made many travelers uneasy. A new survey by Global Rescue, a global risk and response company, shows that almost no international travelers feel safer in 2026. The Spring 2026 Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey found that less than 1% of travelers say they have become less worried about personal safety abroad. Over half, 56%, say they are more concerned now, while 42% report no change. According to Global Rescue experts, the survey reveals a strong sense of ongoing risk rather than improvement.
Dan Richards, CEO of Global Rescue Companies, pointed out that travelers either see risks as worsening or as consistently high, but very few believe the world is becoming safer. The survey also found differences by gender. More women (61%) report increased concern compared to men (53%). Men are likelier to say their concerns have not changed.
Responses also showed slight geographic differences. Among U.S. respondents, 56% feel more worried versus 52% among those outside the U.S. Nearly half of all travelers say their safety concerns remain unchanged. The consistent absence of reduced worry highlights that travelers now expect a higher level of risk as normal.
Travel insurance company Squaremouth has also noticed growing anxiety. They reported an 18-fold rise in customer calls about travel to the UAE and Dubai following U.S. and Israel actions against Iran. The company saw a 27% increase in interest for “Cancel for Any Reason” insurance since March, which allows travelers to change plans if conditions worsen.
Philip Farina, a travel safety adviser, noted that conflicts, terrorism, and protests have heightened concerns. He said travelers are cautiously postponing trips in hopes the situation improves.
For those planning international travel, experts recommend several safety steps:
Research Your Destination: Understand the political and social climate of where you will go. Contact your hotel or Airbnb host ahead of time to ask about current local conditions.
Stay Informed While Traveling: Keep up with news and travel advisories from sources like the U.S. State Department and local embassies. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts about emergencies.
Avoid Drawing Attention: Dress neutrally and avoid clothing that signals political beliefs. Stay aware of your surroundings and try to keep a low profile.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with what support and compensation are available for flight delays, cancellations, or other disruptions.
Travel insurance can provide important protections, especially now. Chrissy Valdez of Squaremouth recommends coverages like Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) and Interruption For Any Reason (IFAR), which offer flexibility to cancel trips if safety concerns arise. Non-medical evacuation coverage can help travelers leave a location during unrest or disasters, even without a medical emergency.
Buying travel insurance soon after booking a trip ensures coverage options remain available.
In a world where risk seems permanent, preparation and staying informed remain key. Following expert guidance may help travelers feel safer on their journeys.
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