A recent survey by the Global Rescue Traveller Sentiment and Safety Survey sheds light on how the recent U.S. elections are shaping Americans’ international travel plans for 2025. The findings reveal a mix of enthusiasm and caution among travellers as they consider their future global itineraries.
Approximately 30 percent of respondents plan to increase their international trips next year, while seven percent foresee scaling back on foreign travel. However, the majority—55 percent—expect no significant changes to their plans despite the election outcome.
For those planning more travel, motivations vary. Some cited dissatisfaction with the election results, expressing a desire to spend more time abroad. One traveller commented, “I want to spend as much time as possible outside the U.S. over the next four years.” Others were optimistic about a potential economic upswing post-election. One participant shared, “The economy should show signs of improvement, and if the new administration can secure peace deals globally, travel will be as good or better next year.”
For those anticipating no change, stable financial conditions seem to play a significant role. With inflation at its lowest in three years, many travellers have already secured their plans for 2025. One respondent noted, “I feel better off and secure. With increased disposable income, I’ve already booked my 2025 trips.”
Economic stability appears to be boosting travel confidence overall. Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and a U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board member, remarked, “With inflation at a three-year low, fewer travellers are cancelling or postponing trips. In 2024, many embarked on their long-postponed dreams of global travel, driven by a stabilising economy and a renewed focus on meaningful experiences over material possessions.”
However, seven percent of respondents expressed plans to travel less internationally in 2025, citing safety concerns linked to the election results. One participant shared, “The change in U.S. administration makes me more apprehensive about being in a foreign country, where the risk of anger or animosity towards Americans may be higher.” Others pointed to ongoing geopolitical tensions, including global conflicts and terrorist threats, as reasons for their hesitancy.