How Top Travel Destinations Were Impacted By the Coronavirus Pandemic

Last Updated: September 17, 2020January 24, 2022

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. September 17, 2020 — Six months ago, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic, impacting travel worldwide.

Data from travel insurance comparison site, Squaremouth, reveals how travel to top tourist destinations has been affected since COVID-19 was declared a pandemic.

Drastic Decrease in Travel to International Destinations

Prior to COVID-19, international trips made up 86% of all insured travel, but in the six months following the pandemic declaration, international trips account for only 47% of insured travel. 

• The United States is the only top destination to see an increase in travelers for trips booked during the pandemic, all other top destinations have seen significant decreases.

Accessible Destinations Replace Europe For American Travelers

European countries accounted for half of the top ten international destinations for American travelers prior to COVID-19. However, as COVID-19 caused travel restrictions for many European destinations, the UK and France are the only European countries that remain in the top ten international destinations.

• Accessible destinations like Mexico, Canada, and Caribbean countries now account for more than half of the top ten international destinations. 

Methodology: Data is based on travel insurance policies purchased through Squaremouth.com between September 12, 2019 – September 11, 2020, for all future travel. Statistics reflect the comparison between the first six month period  (Sept 12, 2019 – March 11, 2020) to the second (March 12, 2020 – Sept 11, 2020) unless otherwise noted. 

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