Brits are still travelling this summer – but they’re changing how they holiday
Despite ongoing global uncertainty around the Middle East and disruption affecting travel, British travellers are still planning to head abroad this summer, although many are becoming more cautious about how and where they travel.
That’s according to new research from travel insurance provider Holidaysafe*, which surveyed more than 700 UK travellers about their holiday plans, concerns, and booking habits in light of recent global events.
The results suggest that while confidence remains high, holidaymakers are adapting their travel behaviour rather than cancelling trips altogether.
Most Brits still confident about travelling
Nearly three quarters (73%) of people surveyed said they still feel confident travelling abroad, showing that despite ongoing uncertainty, the appetite for travel remains strong.
Only a small number of respondents said they were no longer travelling because of concerns linked to recent global events.
Instead, travellers are becoming more selective about destinations and more cautious about potential disruption.
Travellers changing destinations and delaying bookings
More than half of those surveyed said they are avoiding certain destinations/regions because of ongoing uncertainty, while many also said they are now choosing destinations closer to home or avoiding long-haul travel altogether.
Some travellers shared that they were opting for European destinations instead of their usual long-haul holidays, while others said they were reconsidering routes or waiting longer before booking.
One respondent commented: “We intend to travel in Europe as opposed to our normal long haul flights”
Another simply said: “europe only !!”
The research also found that one in six travellers are delaying bookings, suggesting many people are taking a more cautious “wait and see” approach before committing to holidays.
Travellers balancing safety concerns with fears over disruption
One of the strongest findings from the research was the growing concern around travel disruption, with delays and cancellations becoming a major consideration for travellers alongside safety and security concerns.
Around 66% of respondents cited travel disruption, including delays, cancellations and changes to flights, as a major concern when booking holidays.
Meanwhile, 53% said safety and security also remained an important consideration when planning trips abroad.
Amber Moon, Brand Manager at Holidaysafe, said:
“Travellers aren’t cancelling their holidays; they’re changing how they approach them.”
“What’s striking is how concerned travellers are about disruption alongside safety and security. People are not only thinking about where they’re going, but whether they’ll get there without delays, cancellations or unexpected disruption.”
A more cautious and considered approach to travel
The survey also revealed a growing focus on planning ahead, flexibility and travel protection, with almost six in ten respondents saying travel insurance feels more important now than before.
Amber added:
“We’re seeing customers take a much more cautious and considered approach. They are booking later, choosing destinations more carefully, and placing greater importance on having protection in place.”
While global uncertainty continues, the research suggests British travellers remain determined to travel, but are adapting their plans to feel more confident and prepared when they do.
Before travelling, make sure your next holiday is protected with suitable travel insurance. Get a quote today at Holidaysafe.
* Research conducted by Holidaysafe, part of the Travel Insurance Facilities group of brands, among 700 customers (April, 2026), exploring travel plans, confidence levels, concerns, and attitudes towards insurance in light of global events.
