In an increasingly volatile world, geopolitical instability has surged as the number one concern for international travellers heading into 2025. A new Global Rescue Fall 2024 Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey reveals that nearly one-third of seasoned travellers (30%) now consider geopolitical instability the most significant travel risk. This growing anxiety reflects the current global landscape, where conflicts, political turmoil, and economic disruptions are escalating alarmingly.
Dan Richards – Chief Executive Officer – Global Rescue.
Amid ongoing wars and rising political and economic tensions, travellers are more vigilant than ever before, carefully assessing the risks associated with their destinations. “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,” explained Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Security extraction services have become a top priority for those heading to regions impacted by these risks. The survey indicates that over half of travellers (51%) are prepared to use such services in destinations where terrorism, civil unrest, or war poses a threat. This marks a significant shift in the travel mindset as more individuals recognise the importance of contingency plans in high-risk areas.
Security Extraction Becomes a Necessity, Not an Option
According to Harding Bush, a former Navy SEAL and current security director for Global Rescue, the demand for security extraction services has skyrocketed in response to rising threats. “Security extraction services are no longer viewed as optional for those who travel to high-risk areas. People want to know that they can get out of a dangerous situation quickly if necessary,” Bush emphasized.
For many travellers, safety is no longer an afterthought but a central part of their preparation. This heightened sense of caution is reflected in the survey’s findings, where travellers pay close attention to official U.S. travel advisories and make informed decisions about their destinations. International travel now involves careful consideration of local conditions, potential unrest, and the availability of emergency support.
Health Risks Remain a Top Concern
Despite the growing focus on geopolitical risks, health concerns weigh heavily on travellers’ minds. Nearly half of the survey respondents (45%) cited injury or illness as their primary worry when travelling internationally. In an unpredictable world, health risks have become just as crucial as external threats like war or terrorism.
“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 noted. Access to safety advisories and medical evacuation resources is no longer a luxury but a necessity for travellers navigating today’s complex global landscape.
Proactive Planning: The New Travel Norm
The survey underscores a shift in how travellers approach international trips. Gone are the days when planning a vacation meant simply booking hotels and restaurants. Destination reports and travel advisories have become essential for travellers seeking to mitigate risks before departure.
“More travelers are proactively seeking advice and protection, even before departure, ensuring they are ready to respond to unpredicted crises,” Richards highlighted. As the global environment becomes more volatile, travellers are taking safety into their own hands, ensuring they are equipped to handle geopolitical, economic, or health-related emergencies.
As the world heads into 2025, the message is clear: the new era of travel demands heightened vigilance, careful preparation, and readiness to respond to crises. For travellers navigating an unpredictable world, proactive planning is no longer optional—it’s essential.
Written by: Michelle Warner
