The Risks of Travel Aren’t What You Think

I’ve been reporting on risk as it relates to travel for more than 20 years. The news cycles change, but here’s what remains the same: The things that often give people anxiety before a trip are not actually the most common sources of travel mishaps. Some people worry about plane crashes, for instance. But the odds that your plane will go down are far lower than the odds of getting into a car accident en route to the airport.

Travelers tend to worry most about very rare risks that are highly dramatic, such as violent crime or attacks. But that’s not what lands travelers in the hospital most often. What does? Well, tripping and slipping, for starters: Uneven cobblestones, wobbly river-cruise-ship gangways, and slippery marble hotel bathroom floors are frequent culprits. And while you’re surely vigilant about food hygiene when you travel, do you leave your culinary restraint at home? Overindulgence in food and wine sometimes cascades into a more serious medical issue. As e-bikes surge in popularity, we’re hearing from more and more travelers who find themselves unceremoniously bucked from their saddles. Once you know that dehydration is a common cause of travel medical issues, will you carry more water when you challenge yourself on that extra-long hike?

We know how rewarding it is when a trip pushes you slightly outside your comfort zone. Just be sure you’re still making smart choices; the articles below will help you do just that.

Sources of Help in a Travel Medical Emergency

These Travel Insurance Tips Can Safeguard Your Wallet: Zoom Q&A

Where a Medical Evacuation Will Take You

Everything You Need to Know About Travel Insurance

12 Simple, Easy Steps to Keep Yourself Safe When Traveling Abroad

Wendy’s 7 Keys To Traveling Without Fear By Putting Risks into Perspective