Traveler vulnerability to extreme events: insights from COVID-19

Purpose Traveler vulnerability to extreme events is an understudied concept in the literature. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted its importance and underscored the need for comprehensive research in this area. This study explores the concept of traveler vulnerability, particularly within the context of extreme events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, with the aim of analyzing its determinants. Design/methodology/approach This study employs survey data from Uruguay, collected after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, amid partial travel reopening and relaxed safety measures. We define traveler vulnerability in terms of their willingness to travel during a crisis and identify its determinants through exploratory factor analysis and regression analysis. Findings Responsiveness to leisure and essential travel reopening, perception of COVID-19, and hard and light safety measures affect traveler vulnerability. While travelers’ trust in the re-opening of essential travel services mitigates their vulnerability, light regulations like those required before departure have an aggravating effect similar to that of the perception of the COVID-19. Originality/value We extend the framework for addressing rare shocks by monitoring travelers’ vulnerability, a critical factor for risk mitigation and tourism recovery. Our findings suggest the need to reassess several significant policy decisions implemented during the COVID-19 crisis.