(Lebanon, NH – July 8, 2026) — Despite another summer marked by record-breaking temperatures and increasingly severe weather events worldwide, most experienced international travelers are not overly concerned about extreme heat or weather-related health risks when planning trips abroad, according to the latest Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey.

The survey found that only 12% of respondents are extremely or very concerned about extreme heat and weather-related health risks while traveling internationally. In contrast, 52% are somewhat or slightly concerned, while 36% report they are not concerned at all.

The findings were remarkably consistent between US-based and non-US-based travelers. Among US-based respondents, 13% were extremely or very concerned, 51% were somewhat or slightly concerned and 36% were not concerned. Among non-US-based travelers, 10% expressed high concern, 58% were somewhat or slightly concerned and 32% said they were not concerned.

“Experienced international travelers understand that unpredictable weather changes are one of many travel risks that can be managed with preparation,” said Jeff Weinstein, a paramedic and a medical operations manager for Global Rescue, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services to enterprises, governments and individuals. “They recognize that staying hydrated, adjusting itineraries and understanding local conditions significantly reduce the likelihood of heat-related illness.”

While relatively few international travelers identify extreme heat as a significant health concern, 27% say access to quality medical care is their top health worry while traveling abroad. Foodborne illness ranked second at 17%, followed closely by injuries from accidents (16%) and infectious diseases (14%). Medical evacuation needs were identified by 12% of respondents, while only 3% cited heat-related illness as their greatest health concern.

US-based travelers placed even greater emphasis on access to quality medical care, with 28% identifying it as their primary concern compared with 20% of non-US-based travelers. Conversely, non-US travelers were substantially more concerned about high medical costs (8%) than US-based travelers (2%), and were also more likely to identify medical evacuation needs as their leading concern (15% versus 11%).

“The survey suggests experienced travelers aren’t dismissing extreme weather, they’re putting it into context,” Weinstein said. “Their greatest concern isn’t necessarily avoiding every risk. It’s knowing they’ll have access to quality medical care and, if necessary, medical evacuation should something serious occur.”

Weinstein noted that rising global temperatures still require travelers to take practical precautions.

“Heat waves are becoming more frequent, lasting longer and affecting destinations that historically experienced milder summers,” he said. “Travelers should monitor weather forecasts, recognize the early signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, remain hydrated, avoid strenuous activities during peak afternoon temperatures and understand where medical care is available before they need it.”

With climate-related disruptions becoming increasingly common, Weinstein said preparation remains the best defense.

“International travelers routinely prepare for passport requirements, security risks and transportation disruptions,” he said. “Extreme weather deserves the same level of planning. A few simple precautions can prevent a medical emergency from becoming a trip-ending event.”

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About the Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey

Global Rescue, the leading travel risk and crisis response provider, surveyed the world’s most experienced international travelers between June 30 – July 6, 2026. Respondents shared their attitudes, behaviors and preferences related to travel safety, technology and global mobility.

About Global Rescue

Global Rescue is the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services to enterprises, governments and individuals. Founded in 2004, Global Rescue maintains exclusive relationships with the Johns Hopkins Emergency Medicine Division of Special Operations and Elite Medical Group. The company has provided medical and security support during every major global crisis over the past two decades.