What to do when geopolitical instability impacts global travel

In an increasingly connected world, traveling internationally is easier than ever. But the ease and availability of international travel is closely tied to geopolitics. When tensions rise between countries, borders may close and sanctions can be imposed, which can affect where, when and how we move around the world.

“In the modern world, it is essential to stay informed,” says Adrian Leach, CEO of travel risk management specialists World Travel Protection, part of Zurich Cover-More. “Geopolitical shifts can be sudden and dramatic. Understanding the risks helps travelers to make smarter, safer travel decisions.”

Here are six ways geopolitical tensions are affecting global travel – and what it means for the 21st-century traveler.

1. Airspace and flight path restrictions

One of the first and most significant impacts of geopolitical unrest is the closure or restriction of airspace. When countries come into conflict or tensions escalate, flight paths are often rerouted – adding time, cost and complexity to international journeys.

A key example is the ongoing war in Ukraine. Following Russia’s invasion in February 2022, many Western airlines suspended operations in Russian airspace, forcing long-haul flights between Europe and Asia to take longer, more expensive routes. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), these diversions have added hours to flight times and increased fuel consumption, leading to higher ticket prices.

2. Visa restrictions and barriers to entry

Geopolitical relationships can also restrict freedom of movement across borders. Visa policies are among the first tools used by governments to signal caution or disapproval following international disputes.

For example, Russian citizens have faced mounting visa restrictions in the Schengen Area, North America and parts of Asia. Belarus, a close Russian ally, has seen similar restrictions. This has reduced tourism and business travel to and from both countries.

And while some countries recognize the Gender X marker in passports, many do not, potentially causing challenges for gender-diverse passport holders. Recent changes to U.S. policies regarding Gender X passports have also created uncertainty for travelers.

More broadly, increased migration pressures – especially in Europe and North America – have led to tighter border controls and longer wait times for travelers from certain regions. Brexit, too, has created new hurdles for UK citizens traveling or working in EU countries.

3. Safety concerns and on-the-ground risks

Even when travel to a destination is unrestricted, geopolitical instability can pose risks once you arrive. In volatile regions, foreign visitors may find themselves navigating curfews, protests, surveillance and even violence.

Myanmar is a case in point. Following the 2021 military coup, the country has experienced civil unrest, with foreign governments warning of arbitrary detentions, restrictions on movement and unreliable access to healthcare.

4. Economic sanctions and travel costs

Geopolitical tensions don’t just restrict where we can travel, they also impact how much it costs to get there. Economic sanctions and disrupted supply chains increase prices, particularly for fuel, which has a knock-on effect on airfares and other travel expenses.

Trade disputes can also have an impact on travel. The recently announced tariffs on imports between the U.S. and China have sparked fears of further reciprocal measures, which could dampen trans-Pacific travel and push prices up for travelers everywhere. Likewise, the uncertainty surrounding the trade relationship between the U.S. and Canada could lead to a downturn in cross-border tourism.

5. Disruption to global sporting events

Major international sporting and cultural events boost global travel, but they are not immune to politics.The 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, for example, was met by diplomatic boycotts from several Western nations, including the U.S., UK and Canada, in protest over human rights concerns. (A diplomatic boycott means that a nation sends athletes, but no ministers or officials attend.)

The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar also came under scrutiny. Human rights concerns, particularly around workers’ rights and LGBTQ+ issues, prompted some fans and public figures to stay away, raising broader questions about how host nations for global events are selected.

6. Shifts in long-term travel trends

While short-term events can create immediate disruption, geopolitics also shape longer-term travel trends. Though some countries and regions are turning inward and becoming less accessible to tourists, others are becoming more interconnected through diplomacy and shared infrastructure projects.

Meanwhile, geopolitical uncertainty has driven growth in domestic holidays. Travelers are opting to stay closer to home, citing affordability, simplicity and fewer disruptions. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, domestic travelers spent USD 5.3 trillion in 2024 – a 5.4 percent increase from the previous year.

Advice for travelers

As the world becomes more unpredictable, so does international travel. For travelers, this means staying informed is more important than ever. So before booking a trip, consult the latest government advisories and read up on the latest geopolitical developments in both your final destination and the countries you intend to travel through – or fly over – to get there. 

Build flexibility into your travel plans where possible and consider taking out comprehensive travel insurance that covers cancellations, medical emergencies and other unexpected disruptions. In a world where the geopolitical landscape can change overnight, it pays to be well prepared.

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