Emily Reeve and her husband typically travel for Thanksgiving, but this year they have decided to stay home in Portland, Oregon due to concerns about potential unrest after the election. Many travelers are rethinking their plans for the holiday season amidst anxiety surrounding the 2024 election. Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian noted that historically, consumers tend to stay home during election periods.
Travel industry experts have observed a decrease in domestic flight bookings around the election week, with concerns about unrest affecting travel decisions. The recent poll by the Vacationer found that 64% of U.S. adults would avoid traveling depending on the election outcome. Businesses, including travel management companies, are also monitoring the situation and preparing for potential security risks.
Despite these concerns, research shows that 38% of U.S. adults plan to travel this holiday season. The uncertainty around the election outcome and potential economic impact has influenced some travelers to make decisions to stay home or cancel travel plans. The fear of being stranded overseas due to domestic tumult has accelerated travel plans for some, while others are waiting to see the post-election landscape before making travel arrangements.
Some families are opting to stay home due to worries about potential conflicts over politics during family gatherings. Millennials and Gen Z travelers are more likely to anticipate political tension at these gatherings compared to Baby Boomers. Overall, the political climate and uncertainty surrounding the election are impacting travelers’ decisions on where and when to travel for the holiday season.
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