UK Travellers Face Rising Heat Risks: How Climate Change and Aging Populations Demand a New Approach to Travel Safety

Published on December 10, 2025

The tourism industry is increasingly confronted with a complex set of challenges, primarily driven by the ongoing climate crisis and the aging population of travellers. As global temperatures continue to climb, the sector is experiencing a rise in safety incidents, particularly heat-related illnesses, which are placing considerable pressure on travel organizations, tourism agencies, and the broader industry. The Safer Tourism Foundation, alongside various research studies, has underscored the growing risks of heat stress, dehydration, and other climate-induced health problems, becoming prominent concerns for travellers. This article explores the increasing risks associated with heat exposure, how climate change is impacting traveller health, and the broader implications these challenges pose for the tourism sector.

Rising Heat-Related Incidents Among Travelers

The Safer Tourism Foundation’s annual Travel Behaviour Risk Index highlights a concerning rise in safety incidents related to heat stress. Between 2023 and 2024, incidents related to climate conditions surged by 15%, with the likelihood of a British traveler experiencing an incident abroad increasing from 1 in 263 travel experiences to 1 in 217. This rise can be attributed to two factors: an actual increase in incidents and the improved reporting systems within the tourism industry that have made it easier to track heat-related problems.

One of the key findings from the Safer Tourism Foundation’s report is the significant rise in heat-related illnesses. The report shows that one in four British travelers admitted to having suffered from heat stress while abroad. More concerning is the fact that 30% of those affected did not take any preventive measures, even after having experienced heat-related incidents in the past. This alarming statistic is further exacerbated by the ongoing climate crisis, which is making extreme heat events more common. Travelers, particularly those who are unacclimatized or have underlying health conditions, are at an even greater risk.

The Impact of Climate Change on Traveler Health

As global temperatures continue to rise, the risks associated with heat-related illnesses are becoming increasingly prevalent, not just for residents of hot climates but also for tourists visiting these destinations. A 2023 study published in The Lancet found that extreme heat events, such as heatwaves, significantly increase the risk of heat-related mortality and morbidity, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, those with pre-existing health conditions, and travelers who are not acclimatized to such extreme weather conditions.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized that heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, are becoming major public health threats. These conditions are most apparent in regions that were once considered temperate but are now experiencing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves. The shift underscores how climate change is not only affecting residents of hot climates but also international tourists who travel to these regions.

Older travelers are particularly at risk. WHO reports that thermal regulation becomes less efficient with age, making it more difficult for older individuals to manage extreme heat. Those with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or kidney disorders are also particularly vulnerable to heat-related health problems. As climate change accelerates, these risks are likely to increase, creating significant challenges for the tourism industry to address.

Gastrointestinal Illnesses and Other Common Risks for Travelers

While heat-related illnesses are a major concern, other health issues continue to affect travelers. Gastrointestinal illnesses remain the most commonly reported health problem for tourists, accounting for 39% of reported incidents. Falls, slips, and trips, which make up 16% of safety concerns, are also significant risks, particularly for older travelers who may experience more severe consequences from falls and injuries.

The increase in food allergy-related incidents, which has risen by 14% in recent years, mirrors broader public health trends showing a rise in food sensitivities and allergies globally. The combination of heat stress, gastrointestinal issues, and food allergies creates a more complicated risk landscape for travelers, making it even more crucial for the tourism industry to ensure that visitors are well-prepared for the potential hazards they may face.

The “Holiday Head” Phenomenon: Overconfidence and Risk Mismanagement

One critical phenomenon that contributes to the rising number of incidents is “Holiday Head”. This refers to the overconfidence many travelers feel, leading them to engage in activities or expose themselves to conditions beyond their physical capabilities. While safety is typically a primary consideration when choosing a destination, it is often deprioritized when selecting specific activities or planning the trip itself. This mismatch between travelers’ perceived safety and actual risk increases the likelihood of accidents and health issues during their trips.

Katherine Atkinson, CEO of the Safer Tourism Foundation, stressed that the combination of rising temperatures and an aging population of travelers has created a “new and more complex risk landscape.” She noted that tourism organizations must adapt to these challenges by providing travelers with clear, accurate information about the risks they may face, particularly when engaging in physical activities in hot climates.

Improved Reporting Mechanisms and a Clearer Picture of Risk

Despite the increase in heat-related incidents, there is a positive development: the improvement of incident reporting systems. The Safer Tourism Foundation points out that better reporting systems are allowing travelers to share their experiences more effectively, providing tourism organizations with clearer data about the risks they face. This shift toward greater transparency is critical, as it allows businesses to better understand the scope of heat-related incidents, enabling them to design targeted interventions to reduce such risks in the future.

The transparency provided by these improved reporting systems also allows tourism organizations to develop more effective safety measures. With better data at their disposal, the industry can respond more proactively to the rising risks associated with heat-related illnesses and other health concerns. This shift to proactive safety management is essential for enhancing the overall travel experience and ensuring that visitors remain safe and healthy during their trips.

The Safer Tourism Pledge: A Collaborative Effort for Better Safety

The Safer Tourism Pledge is an important initiative aimed at addressing the new risks facing the tourism sector. This pledge encourages tourism organizations, insurers, and data partners to collaborate and improve safety standards across the industry. Early results from the pledge have been promising, with participating organizations improving safety measures such as the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in accommodations and implementing infrastructure updates that have helped reduce bicycle accidents and falls.

By participating in the Safer Tourism Pledge, tourism organizations can work together to enhance safety protocols, ensuring that both communities and travelers benefit from a safer and more sustainable tourism sector. The Foundation has called for more organizations to join this initiative, emphasizing that safety should not be a competitive advantage. By collaborating and sharing resources, the entire tourism industry can strengthen its safety measures, making travel a safer experience for everyone involved.

Looking Ahead: Adapting to the Changing Risk Landscape

As the climate crisis continues to escalate, the tourism industry must be prepared to face an increasingly complex risk landscape. The combination of rising temperatures and an aging population of travelers means that new and more sophisticated risk management strategies are necessary. Tourism organizations must prioritize safety and sustainability, ensuring that travelers are well-informed and prepared for the potential risks they may encounter during their trips.

To ensure long-term success, the tourism sector must develop new policies and update existing infrastructure to meet the growing challenges posed by climate change and an aging population. By continuing to learn from initiatives like the Safer Tourism Pledge and improving incident reporting systems, the industry can create safer, more enjoyable travel experiences for all visitors, ensuring that tourism remains sustainable and enjoyable for future generations.

Essential Travel Tips to Avoid Heat-Related Illnesses

As the climate continues to change, travelers are increasingly exposed to heat-related illnesses, particularly when visiting hot climates or engaging in strenuous activities. Heat stress, dehydration, and heat stroke are becoming more common, especially among older travelers or those with underlying health conditions. Here are some proven travel tips to help you stay safe during your next trip to a warm destination.

Hydration is Key

• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids, especially before feeling thirsty, to stay hydrated. Water or water with electrolytes works best, particularly when sweating heavily.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, as these can impair hydration and increase the risk of heat illness.
• Always carry water with you, especially when traveling in hot environments, to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day.

Dress Smart for the Heat

• Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing to reflect heat and allow sweat evaporation. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will help protect you from the sun’s rays.
• Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, to help your body cool down effectively.
• If you’re planning outdoor activities, avoid strenuous exercise during peak heat hours, usually from late morning to mid-afternoon. Early mornings and evenings are safer times to be outdoors.

Take Breaks and Seek Shade

• Regularly rest in shaded or cool areas to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. This helps your body recover and prevents overheating.
• Use cooling methods such as damp cloths, cool showers, or misting your skin with water. These methods can help lower your body temperature and reduce heat stress.

Watch for Warning Signs of Heat-Related Illness

• Be alert to symptoms like excessive sweating, dizziness, headache, and nausea. These could indicate heat exhaustion, and you should take action immediately.
• If symptoms worsen, such as a lack of sweating, confusion, or high body temperature, seek medical attention immediately to prevent heat stroke.

Special Caution for Vulnerable Travelers

• Older travelers or those with chronic conditions (heart disease, diabetes, etc.) are more susceptible to heat-related illness. They should take extra precautions, including more frequent breaks, ensuring hydration, and avoiding outdoor exertion during high heat.
• Travelers who are unacclimatized to hot climates should avoid sudden strenuous activity and gradually increase physical exertion to allow their body to adjust.

Conclusion: A Call for Collective Action

The Safer Tourism Foundation’s report serves as a clear call to action for the tourism industry. The increasing risks posed by the climate crisis and an aging population require the industry to collaborate and act swiftly. By embracing initiatives like the Safer Tourism Pledge and continuing to improve incident reporting, the tourism sector can enhance its resilience, reduce risks, and ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for all travelers. Through collaboration and proactive risk management, the industry can continue to provide travelers with the opportunity to explore the world safely and responsibly.