‘It’s Like Being in an Oven:’ How Extreme Heat Is Changing Travel

Key Points

• Extreme heat waves are increasingly disrupting tourism in Europe, shifting peak travel seasons and causing operational challenges for businesses.
• Travel companies are adapting by altering tour schedules, investing in cooling technology, and expanding offerings in cooler destinations, while rising insurance costs and business risks threaten industry stability.
• Experts emphasize the need for stronger policies and systemic change to reduce emissions and adapt, as climate change both impacts and is driven by the travel sector, which accounts for around 9% of global carbon emissions.

Summary

Extreme heat and climate change are rapidly reshaping the global travel industry, especially in Europe, where record-breaking temperatures are forcing tour operators to adjust schedules and prompting airlines, hotels, and destinations to invest in new cooling technologies and adaptation strategies. Rising insurance costs, increased business risks, and shifting traveler preferences are challenging traditional models, with companies expanding into cooler destinations and experimenting with new technologies to keep guests comfortable. Experts argue that while individual and business efforts are important, systemic policy changes are essential for the travel sector to meaningfully adapt and reduce its significant carbon footprint.