For Immediate Release:

(Lebanon, N.H. – August 13, 2024) The world’s most experienced travelers revealed the most critical factor in selecting a travel partner is having a compatible travel style, according to the Summer 2024 Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey.

“More than half of survey respondents (51%) said a like-minded traveling companion is more important than other characteristics like flexibility, money management or open-mindedness,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce.

A compatible travel style aligns preferences regarding itinerary planning, pace, and activities. “Some travelers thrive on spontaneous adventures, while others prefer structured plans. Open discussions about travel preferences are crucial for ensuring a harmonious journey,” Richards said.

Survey respondents (16%) listed flexibility as the second most important characteristic, highlighting the ability to adapt to changes—such as unexpected weather conditions or transportation delays. A sense of humor (9%), good communication (8%) and open-mindedness (8%) were identified as the next most vital traits for a great travel companion.

Conversely, survey respondents (32%) identified the most alarming characteristic to avoid when selecting a travel companion was an individual with a negative attitude who frequently complains or exhibits pessimism. Recklessness (20%) and unreliability (19%) were listed as the next most undesirable qualities in a travel buddy.

The survey found that men and women largely agreed on the characteristics of an ideal travel companion, but they differ in their views regarding alarming traits. Women identified a negative attitude as their top concern (33%), followed by recklessness (24%) and unreliability (14%). In contrast, men also ranked a negative attitude first (32%) but prioritized unreliability (20%) and recklessness (17%) differently.

Choosing the right travel companion can significantly enhance a journey, making it enjoyable and memorable. Traveling is a significant opportunity for personal growth and connection. “By prioritizing compatible travel styles, flexibility, open-mindedness, good communication, and a sense of humor, travelers can foster enjoyable adventures. At the same time, awareness of negative traits like a poor attitude, unreliability, and recklessness can help ensure a positive travel experience,” Richards said.

###

Contact

Bill McIntyre at bmcintyre@globalrescue.com or +1 (202) 560-1195 (phone/text) for more information.

About the Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey

Global Rescue, the leading travel risk and crisis response provider, surveyed more than 1,100 current and former members between July 9-13, 2024. The respondents revealed a variety of behaviors, attitudes and preferences regarding current and future travel.

About Global Rescue

The Global Rescue Companies are the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services to enterprises, governments and individuals. Founded in 2004, Global Rescue has exclusive relationships with the Johns Hopkins Emergency Medicine Division of Special Operations and Elite Medical Group. Global Rescue provides best-in-class services that identify, monitor and respond to client medical and security crises. Global Rescue has provided medical and security support to its clients, including Fortune 500 companies, governments and academic institutions, during every globally significant crisis of the last two decades. For more information, visit www.globalrescue.com.