Travelers Rethink International Trips Amid Disruptions

Geopolitical tensions, airport chaos, and security concerns prompt some Americans to cancel or adapt their travel plans.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 9:05am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The current state of travel has left many Americans unsure about their 2026 international trips. Factors like the Iran war, the government shutdown's impact on airport security, and a global travel warning from the State Department are causing some to cancel or rethink their plans, while others are forging ahead with adaptations. Travel demand for summer trips from the U.S. to Europe is down, but some travelers feel the benefits of international trips with family outweigh the risks.

Why it matters

The disruptions in the travel industry are reflective of broader geopolitical tensions and domestic political instability that are impacting Americans' ability and willingness to travel abroad. This could have significant economic consequences for the tourism industry, as well as cultural and educational impacts if fewer Americans are exposed to different cultures and perspectives through international travel.

The details

Some travelers, like writer and environmentalist Bridget Shirvell, are reconsidering their annual international trips with their children due to the uncertain political climate. Others, like California-based attorney Athar Khan, are adapting their travel plans by arriving at airports extra early to avoid security delays. Travel demand for summer trips from the U.S. to Europe is down 11.19% compared to last year, according to data from Expedia. Nonprofit consultant Dawn Montgomery has cut her number of work trips by more than half due to the airport chaos caused by the government shutdown.

  • In mid-March, Montgomery cut her April trips from eight to just three due to the impacts of the government shutdown on airport security lines.
  • On March 29, President Trump sent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers to 14 airports to alleviate congestion.
  • In the first two months of 2026, international departures by U.S. citizens were slightly higher compared to the same time period in 2025 - up 1.4% in January and 1.5% in February.

The players

Bridget Shirvell

A writer and environmentalist who has taken annual international trips with her 7-year-old daughter, but is reconsidering their plans this year due to geopolitical tensions and security concerns.

Athar Khan

A California-based attorney who is planning to take his family on three upcoming international trips, including a Caribbean cruise and visits to Russia and Pakistan, despite the current travel disruptions.

Dawn Montgomery

A nonprofit consultant and cultural writer who has significantly reduced her number of work trips due to the impacts of the government shutdown on airport security lines.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Intuitively, I think because I do travel so much, you can tell when something's off. You can tell the energy around a particular airport you frequent.”

— Dawn Montgomery, Nonprofit Consultant and Cultural Writer

What’s next

As the political and security situation continues to evolve, travelers will need to closely monitor news and government advisories to determine if their upcoming international trips are still feasible. Airlines and travel providers may also adjust policies and schedules in response to changing conditions.

The takeaway

The current state of travel uncertainty highlights the broader geopolitical and domestic challenges facing Americans, and the difficult decisions they must make about whether the benefits of international travel outweigh the potential risks. This could have lasting impacts on the travel industry and cultural exchange if fewer Americans feel comfortable venturing abroad.