How Not Being Able To Travel Affects Mental Health

Words by Kaitlyn McInnis

August 23, 2020

Cover Photo: Yousef Alfuhigi/Unsplash

The 2020 Amex Trendex found that more than 48 per cent of responders feel “anxious and stressed” at the thought of not being able to travel abroad this year

If you’re feeling anxious or stressed out about having to skip your annual holidays, it turns out that may be a completely normal reaction to the worldwide travel restrictions.

According to the recent Amex Trendex, a trend report facilitated by American Express, nearly half of the general population believes that not being able to travel this year is making them feel both anxious and stressed, with 78 per cent of responders admitting that travelling is among the top activities they miss the most right now.

That said, even as travel restrictions begin to lift, with high ticket destinations like the Maldives and Bali beginning to open their doors to international travellers, the survey reveals that travellers remain hesitant to travel, with only 10 per cent of responders planning to travel during the school break.

Above Photo: Philipp Kämmerer/Unsplash

Interestingly, despite spending more time with family and spouses at home over the past few months, 67 per cent of responders still plan to take their first trip abroad with those they have been quarantined with and would also prefer to travel in small travel bubbles for extended trips rather than quick weekend escapes. In fact, a surprising 50 per cent of responders admitted to being open to extended travel or living abroad if the right opportunity came to fruition.

While it remains to be known when international travel will fully and safely resume, it’s becoming clear that the majority frequent flyers and occasional travellers have developed a newfound sense of appreciation for travel and the freedom that comes with exploring a new culture––and what that could entail for the broader travel industry may look like slower, more sustainable travel.