Rising Anxiety Alters U.S. International Travel: Safety and Insurance Now Top Concerns

A surge in anxiety is reshaping how Americans approach international travel, with safety concerns leading many to reconsider or cancel overseas trips. Recent research shows that while 94% of Americans traveled domestically in the past year, only 28% ventured abroad—a gap fueled by fears of travel disruptions, safety issues, and changing global attitudes toward U.S. tourists.

Four in ten Americans with upcoming travel plans are now having second thoughts, citing worries about airline safety, border detentions, and political profiling, especially after incidents like the recent questioning of a prominent Twitch streamer at a U.S. airport.

Multiple factors are driving this anxiety. Top concerns include potential travel delays and cancellations (42%), the means of travel itself (40%), and uncertainty over government policies (40%). Economic pressures, such as a weaker dollar and rising travel costs, as well as new visa requirements in some countries, are also discouraging international trips. Additionally, online discussions about airline safety have spiked, reflecting a growing unease even though official data shows aviation remains safe.

In response, Americans are increasingly turning to travel insurance for peace of mind. While only 10% bought insurance for their last trip, 65% are now considering it for future travel, highlighting a significant shift in priorities. Domestic destinations are benefiting from this trend, with many Americans opting for “dupe” vacations—domestic alternatives to international hotspots—to avoid the unpredictability of overseas travel.

The cumulative effect is a notable decline in U.S. outbound travel bookings and a parallel drop in inbound tourism, with the U.S. projected to lose $12.5 billion in international tourism revenue this year. As safety and security remain at the forefront, the travel landscape for Americans continues to evolve, with risk calculation now a central part of vacation planning.

Key Points: 

• Only 28% of Americans traveled internationally last year, compared to 94% domestically, due to rising travel anxiety.
• Top concerns include delays, travel safety, government policies, and negative views of U.S. tourists.
• Fear of flying has increased, with many feeling air travel is less safe than before.
• Interest in travel insurance has surged, with 65% considering it for future trips.
• Economic factors and new visa rules also discourage international travel.
• U.S. outbound travel bookings are down, risking a $12.5 billion loss in tourism revenue.