For the First Time, Younger Travelers Insure the Majority of Trips

Last Updated: August 14, 2020July 26, 2024 — 1 min read

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. August 14, 2020 — Squaremouth reports a drastic decline in travel by older generations, as younger travelers become the most insured demographic in the US amidst COVID-19. 

How COVID-19 Has Impacted Travel Across Generations

Prior to the pandemic, most insured trips were for the 50 and above age bracket. Now, 60% of travelers purchasing travel insurance are under the age of 50. 

“We have never seen younger travelers driving the majority of travel insurance purchases before,” said Megan Moncrief, CMO of Squaremouth. “Historically, the typical travel insurance customer was retired, with time and money to travel, taking expensive and longer international trips.”

Younger Generations Protecting Trip Investments

Surprisingly, it is the youngest generation of travelers, age 21 and under, that are responsible for the majority of travel insurance purchases during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

• Travelers 21 and under account for roughly a quarter of all travelers purchasing travel insurance since May. 
• Before the pandemic began in January, this young generation made up just 11%. 

All Generations Have Same Top Concerns

Despite age differences, travelers share the same main concerns across the board.  

• Coverage for the coronavirus pandemic and Cancel for Any Reason were top of mind for all generations.  
• In July, 40% of travelers purchased a policy that specifically included cancellation or medical coverage in the event they contract COVID-19 or are quarantined. 
• Since February, 20% of all policies purchased include the pricey but extensive Cancel for Any Reason upgrade, a 210% increase compared to last year. 

Methodology: Data is based on travel insurance policies purchased through Squaremouth.com from January – July 2020 for all future travel. Statistics reflect month-over-month changes unless otherwise noted.

KEY CURRENT RESOURCE:

For regularly updated information about Covid-19 and travel insurance, please visit our Covid-19 travel insurance information hub.