How COVID-19 Changed Travel This Summer

Last Updated: May 20, 2020February 22, 2024

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. May 20, 2020 — States, countries, and cruise lines are beginning to open for summer travel, but travel insurance consumer trends show COVID-19 concerns remain top of mind. 

Travel insurance comparison site, Squaremouth.com, reveals how COVID-19 has changed travel this summer.

Summer Travel Plummets Due to COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 caused travel restrictions and border closures that brought travel to a standstill.

• A drastic 90% decrease in travel insurance policies purchased for summer trips highlights the extent to which travel has halted. 

Coverage for COVID-19 is Top Concern 

The coronavirus pandemic is the top concern for travelers planning summer trips. 

• 36% of travelers looked for a policy that specifically included cancellation or medical coverage in the event they contract COVID-19 or are quarantined. 

“Cancel for Any Reason” Purchases Spike

Cancel for Any Reason policies cost 40-50% more than standard travel insurance policies, but are the best option for COVID-related cancellation coverage. 

• A third of all policies purchased for summer travel include Cancel for Any Reason coverage.
• Travelers purchasing pricey Cancel for Any Reason coverage increased over 680% compared to last summer. 

Domestic Travel Increases as International Travel Declines

Unlike previous years, travelers plan to spend summer close to home. 

• Domestic trips account for 48% of all planned summer travel, up from just 15% in 2019.
• Travelers planning international trips are still staying close, as Mexico and Canada are the top international destinations for summer travel. 

Travelers planning summer vacations can still purchase a policy that can provide coverage for some top COVID-19 concerns, including cancellation and medical coverage if a traveler contracts the virus or is quarantined.

For regularly updated information about Covid-19 and travel insurance, please visit our Covid-19 travel insurance information hub.

Methodology: Data is based on travel insurance policies purchased through Squaremouth.com between April 1 and May 10, 2020, for travel in June, July, or August 2020. Statistics reflect year-over-year changes unless otherwise noted.