Election season is casting a long shadow over holiday plans this year, reshaping how Americans think about travel. Concerns about political volatility and economic uncertainty are leading travelers to adjust plans, avoid popular destinations, or skip vacations altogether. From airlines to travel agencies, the industry is seeing a noticeable shift, with Americans prioritizing safety and security over the excitement of holiday getaways.
Staying Home for the Holidays
For many, it’s not just about travel costs or crowds; it’s about feeling safe. Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian captured this sentiment, noting that election periods have historically led to pauses in travel. “People like to be home during the election period. They don’t want to be out traveling,” he told CNBC. The 2024 election, with its polarizing climate, is shaping up to be no exception.
NBC News reports that Delta, United, and other major airlines anticipate a decline in bookings around Election Day. The numbers are stark: business travel bookings through Navan are down 19% during election week, according to spokesperson Kelly Soderlund. However, they rebound by 42% the following week, as the immediate post-election uncertainty subsides.
Polling Shows Widespread Concern
This election cycle has many Americans on edge. According to a poll by travel site The Vacationer, 64% of U.S. adults are considering avoiding domestic travel around election time, driven by concerns over potential unrest. This sentiment varies by political perspective, with some respondents saying they’ll only stay home if specific candidates win. Nearly 24% said they’d stay put regardless of the outcome.
Holiday gatherings are no exception, with the possibility of political disagreements hovering over family events. About 22% of travelers worry that politics might spark conflict during family gatherings, with the rate rising to 38% among Gen Z and nearly 29% among millennials, according to Future Partners.
“We’re Staying Put This Year”
For Emily Reeve from Portland, Oregon, the choice to skip her family’s usual Thanksgiving getaway was clear. “I have a toddler now, and I’m worried about being in a potentially volatile situation should we be traveling post-election,” Reeve, 32, shared with NBC News. Typically, Reeve and her husband spend Thanksgiving somewhere warm, like Hawaii or Florida. But this year, they’ll stay home, hoping to avoid any unexpected unrest.
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Others, like 64-year-old Olivia MacLeod Dwinell and her husband, decided to speed up their travel plans, fearing post-election disruptions. Their recent trip to Europe marked Ross’s first trip abroad. Dwinell explained, “The thought that we might have been stranded overseas because of domestic tumult was enough to accelerate our plans.” For them, it was a decision driven by age and the desire for a smoother, safer experience.
Airlines and Security Preparations
With heightened security concerns, airlines and federal agencies are implementing additional precautions. Flyers may notice tighter airport security, with visible uniformed officers and, as aviation security expert Jeffrey Price mentions, “a combination of plainclothes law-enforcement personnel amongst the passengers.”
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), security remains a priority in what it calls a “heightened global threat environment.” Federal air marshals continue to carry out in-flight missions and various unseen security measures, ensuring travelers’ safety during this sensitive period.
Economic Uncertainty Looms Over Travel Plans
Beyond political concerns, financial worries add another layer of hesitation. Sonia Bhagwan, who runs the Portland-based travel agency Dreaming of Sun, noticed a change in her clients’ plans. “A few months ago, families were splurging on vacations and spending more than they typically would,” she told NBC. Now, her clients are thinking about the economic landscape post-election, wondering if they should hold off.
Federal employees are especially mindful, with a potential government shutdown on Dec. 20 looming over holiday plans. Kimberly Kracun, a travel agent in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, said some government employees opted to delay family vacations for fear of potential furloughs.
A Potentially Rocky Reunion
Chirag Panchal, founder of Dallas-based Ensuite Collection, a luxury travel agency, has seen family dynamics shift due to election anxiety. A client who normally plans large family Thanksgiving trips decided to cancel this year. The reason? Rising political tension within the family. Panchal explained, “The children voiced concerns about friction at holiday gatherings,” prompting his client to abandon plans for a family get-together.
With the 2024 election impacting more than just politics, consider how it may shape your travel plans. Whether you’re staying home or opting for a quick trip, it’s wise to prepare for potential travel disruptions and security checks. If you’re planning a holiday getaway, consider booking after Election Day to avoid last-minute cancellations or delays.
By staying informed and proactive, you can still enjoy a safe and memorable holiday season, no matter how the election unfolds.
