Survey reveals top safety concerns for women, LGBTQ+ and young business travellers

A new global survey has revealed that business travellers are taking proactive steps to safeguard themselves while abroad – but significant gaps remain in the support provided by employers, particularly for women, LGBTQ+ individuals and younger professionals.

The study, conducted by Opinium on behalf of travel risk management organisation World Travel Protection, surveyed 2,000 international business travellers. It found that two-thirds (67%) believe it is less safe for women to travel for work than men. Yet just 16% reported receiving pre-travel information about women’s rights and safety considerations. A quarter of women (25%) also said they feel uncomfortable travelling to countries where women’s rights are not well protected, compared to 14% of men.

Safety perceptions differed across age groups. More than half (52%) of under-34s believe they are a target for crime while abroad, versus a third (33%) of those over 55. Younger travellers were also more critical of employer support, with 62% saying their company could do more to ensure their safety, compared to 36% of older travellers.

For LGBTQ+ travellers, risks are also a concern. Over half (52%) said business travel is less safe for LGBTQ+ individuals, and 15% reported witnessing or experiencing sexuality-based harassment during work trips. Despite this, only 13% said their organisation provides information on LGBTQ+ rights and safety in destination countries, while just 21% receive advice related to risks for religious and ethnic minorities.

The survey also identified the top 10 proactive safety measures taken by business travellers, including checking in with family or colleagues (31%), researching risks (27%), concealing valuables (26%), taking extra precautions after dark (26%), and carrying self-defence items (20%).

Kate Fitzpatrick, Regional Security Director at World Travel Protection, commented: “From regularly checking in with family or colleagues to using simple devices like a rubber doorstop, small actions can make a big impact on your safety. It is important to be proactive when it comes to your personal safety when travelling.”

She added: “When organisations are developing travel risk management policies, it’s essential they recognise how factors like gender, age and identity can shape a traveller’s experience and risk exposure. A one-size-fits-all approach is no longer sufficient.”

Travel Guard recently launched an LGBTQ+ travel safety initiative, offering tailored guidance to support safer international travel.