Airalo’s 2026 Global Safety Report: 80% of International Travelers Say Connectivity is a Safety Essential
Airalo, the world's largest travel eSIM platform, today released its 2026 Global Travel Safety Report, a study conducted by YouGov among 4,527 international travelers. Overwhelmingly, the findings show that a stable internet connection has quietly become modern international travelers' primary safety tool.
Mobile Data Viewed as Essential for Safety
- 80% of international travelers said that mobile data is essential for staying safe while traveling abroad.
The figure increased to:
- 86% among women
- 83% among LGBTQIA+ travelers
- Travelers who reported higher levels of travel anxiety were more likely to view reliable internet access as important for their safety.
Connectivity Enhances Travel Freedom
- 77% of respondents said a stable internet connection gives them greater freedom to explore beyond traditional tourist areas.
- 57% said they would consider visiting a riskier destination if they had reliable connectivity.
Among LGBTQIA+ travelers:
- 82% felt more confident exploring off the tourist trail.
- 60% were more willing to visit destinations perceived as riskier.
Airalo’s Perspective
- Elyce Behrsin, spokesperson for Airalo, said connectivity has evolved from a convenience into an essential safety resource.
She noted that mobile data helps travelers:
- Navigate unfamiliar locations
- Return safely to accommodations
- Access taxis and rideshare services
- Explore destinations with greater confidence
Identity and Safety Perceptions
- The report found that perceptions of safety vary significantly depending on factors such as:
- Gender,
Age,
Personal identity
- Women, younger travelers, older travelers, and LGBTQIA+ individuals reported distinct safety concerns and travel experiences.
YouGov’s Findings
- Manel Vera, spokesperson for YouGov, said the research showed that safety is not experienced uniformly across traveler groups.
Key findings included:
- Women often feel less safe when traveling alone or at night.
- Younger travelers face challenges related to inexperience.
- Older travelers may be concerned about maintaining independence, including managing payments and transportation.
- LGBTQIA+ travelers often consider personal identity as a factor affecting safety throughout their travel experiences.
Key Takeaway
- The report concludes that reliable mobile connectivity has become a critical component of modern travel safety.
- Beyond communication, internet access is increasingly viewed as a tool that enables navigation, transportation access, confidence, and personal security while traveling internationally.
