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In a dramatic shift from previous years, international travellers are more concerned about illness and injury than civil unrest or terrorism, according to the latest Global Rescue Winter 2025 Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey. The survey, which polled some of the world’s most seasoned travellers, found that 37% of respondents identified medical emergencies as their top travel concern, compared to last year when geopolitical instability took precedence.

Concern over health risks has now surpassed traditional fears such as civil unrest or terrorism, which ranked second at 20%. Other significant worries among global travellers include losing passports, credit cards, or wallets (14%) and trip cancellations (7%).

Geopolitical Instability and Rising Costs Worry Travelers

While medical risks top the list, broader travel risks remain key in influencing 2025 travel decisions. Nearly 23% of travellers cited geopolitical instability and conflicts as a primary concern, indicating that while civil unrest may not be the dominant worry, it remains a critical issue.

Additionally, fears of petty crime and personal safety threats ranked high on the list of traveller concerns, followed by targeted attacks (20%) and economic instability, including rising travel costs (13%). With inflation and fluctuating economies affecting travel expenses worldwide, budget-conscious travellers are feeling the strain of increased costs on their travel plans.

Security Extraction Services Gain Popularity

As travellers grapple with these evolving risks, many turn to security extraction services for added protection. The survey revealed that 24% of travellers have secured security extraction services for their 2025 trips, while 17% plan to obtain such services shortly. However, 21% stated they do not plan to invest in these services, and 31% remain undecided about adopting additional travel security measures.

Dan Richards – Chief Executive Officer – Global Rescue.

According to Dan Richards, CEO of Global Rescue, the leading medical, security, evacuation, and travel risk management services provider, this concern shift is a natural evolution of global travel risks.

“Travelers face distinct challenges. Understanding these risks allows individuals to better prepare, whether through contingency planning or risk mitigation strategies,” said Richards, who also serves as a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Proactive Travel Planning: Key to a Safer 2025

Given these changing concerns, travel experts recommend that individuals incorporate proactive planning into their itineraries. This includes:

Comprehensive travel insurance with strong medical coverage
Emergency evacuation services for high-risk destinations
Regular health check-ups before international trips
Keeping digital and physical copies of travel documents
Monitoring travel advisories for real-time updates on geopolitical risks

As 2025 unfolds, the landscape of travel safety continues to evolve. Whether due to health risks, political instability, or financial concerns, travellers increasingly prioritise risk management strategies to safeguard their journeys.