Travel used to feel exciting and hassle-free, but in 2025, it often feels like more of a hassle than anything.
From endless flight delays (not to mention fires, crashes, and other dangerous) to skyrocketing costs, the experience has changed in ways that make many people question whether the stress is worth the trip. These are just a few of the reasons modern travel feels more exhausting than ever, and more people are choosing staycations over going overseas.
1. Flights are more expensive than ever, even for short-haul flights.
Rising fuel costs, inflation, and airline fees have made flying painfully expensive. Budget airlines that once offered affordable deals now sneak in hidden charges for everything from seat selection to basic hand luggage. Meanwhile, traditional airlines have raised prices without noticeably improving service. Gone are the days of cheap, last-minute deals; now, even economy tickets can cost a small fortune. While there are still occasional bargains, they require relentless price tracking and luck. For many, the cost alone makes travel feel less appealing than it once was.
2. Airport security is slower and stricter.
Security measures have tightened even more in the last couple of years, with enhanced screening procedures adding to already long wait times. Many airports now use biometric scanning, which, while promising efficiency, often leads to system errors and delays when tech malfunctions. Even with fast-track options, getting through security can feel like an obstacle course of removing electronics, shoes, and liquids while rushing to avoid holding up the queue. For frequent travellers, the stress of security checks alone can make flying feel more like a chore than an adventure.
3. Delays and cancellations have become the norm.
Flight delays used to be an occasional inconvenience; now they’re almost expected. Staffing shortages, outdated air traffic control systems, and unpredictable weather disruptions mean that even well-planned trips can be thrown into chaos at any moment. Some airlines have become notorious for cancelling flights with little warning, leaving passengers scrambling for alternatives. With fewer compensation policies in place and rebooking fees climbing, many travellers find themselves stuck waiting for solutions that rarely come quickly.
4. Accommodation prices are out of control.
Hotels, Airbnbs, and even budget hostels have seen massive price hikes, making decent accommodation harder to afford. Many destinations that were once budget-friendly now have nightly rates that rival mortgage payments. Airbnb, once an affordable alternative, has lost its edge due to excessive cleaning fees and strict checkout rules. Meanwhile, hotels are capitalising on high demand by raising rates without necessarily improving quality. Finding somewhere comfortable and affordable to stay now requires serious planning.
5. Tourist taxes and hidden fees keep piling up.
Many cities now charge higher tourist taxes, adding extra costs to flights, hotels, and even day trips. Cities overwhelmed by tourism have implemented additional entry fees or raised public transport prices specifically for visitors. While these fees are meant to support local infrastructure, they often feel like yet another way to squeeze money from travellers. In some cases, the extra charges can make an affordable destination unexpectedly expensive, turning a dream trip into a financial headache.
6. Crowds make popular destinations less enjoyable.
Over-tourism hasn’t slowed down, and even now, many of the world’s most famous destinations are still struggling with overwhelming crowds. (Hello, Japan!) Long queues, packed public transport, and fully booked attractions mean that even with careful planning, sightseeing can feel like a battle. Places that were once peaceful or scenic now feel more like theme parks, with social media hype driving even more visitors. Unless you’re willing to visit during off-peak months, many travel hotspots no longer offer the relaxing escape they once did.
7. Public transport abroad is unpredictable.
Once upon a time, navigating foreign cities using public transport was part of the adventure. But now, increased strikes, service reductions, and overcrowding make getting around more difficult than ever. Many major cities have cut services due to budget constraints, leaving tourists with fewer options. In some places, ride-sharing apps have filled the gap, but they come with their own issues: surge pricing, availability problems, and local restrictions. For travellers trying to explore efficiently, unreliable transport can turn a simple journey into a frustrating ordeal.
8. Digital travel documents create more problems than they solve.
Many countries have switched to digital visas, vaccine passports, and mobile boarding passes, but while the idea is great, the execution is often messy. System errors, app crashes, and compatibility issues leave travellers stranded at airport gates or border crossings. Some travellers have found themselves stuck due to missing QR codes or unrecognised documents, with little support available. While paperless travel should make things easier, the reality is that technical failures often cause more problems than the old-fashioned way ever did.
9. Luggage restrictions are getting stricter.
Airlines have tightened baggage policies, making it harder to travel with even basic essentials without paying extra. Hand luggage allowances have shrunk, with some budget carriers enforcing weight limits so strict that a laptop and a jacket can put you over. Meanwhile, checked luggage fees continue to rise, forcing travellers to choose between overpacking and paying a fortune or travelling light and risking not having what they need. Packing for a trip now requires careful strategy to avoid unexpected fees.
10. Work-from-anywhere policies are ruining quiet destinations.
The rise of digital nomads has changed the feel of many once-quiet destinations. Cities that used to be great for escaping the chaos now have overpriced coffee shops filled with remote workers taking Zoom calls and co-working spaces replacing local cafes. While remote work has given people more freedom, it’s also driven up costs in some areas, making them less appealing for short-term travellers. Many traditional holiday spots now feel more like temporary office hubs than relaxing retreats.
11. Travel insurance is more expensive and harder to claim.
Rising travel disruptions have made travel insurance a necessity, but it’s also become more expensive and complicated. Many policies now exclude common problems like airline strikes or last-minute cancellations, leaving travellers without proper coverage. Even when covered, making a claim can be a nightmare. Long processing times, strict documentation requirements, and endless back-and-forth emails make getting reimbursed for lost luggage or medical issues more stressful than the trip itself.
12. Food prices at airports and tourist areas are absurd.
Eating while travelling has always been pricey, but in 2025, it feels more extreme than ever. Airport meals cost as much as a sit-down restaurant, and even basic snacks come with inflated prices. Some tourist-heavy cities have also raised restaurant prices to cash in on visitors. In many places, local food markets or grocery stores remain affordable alternatives, but finding reasonably priced meals in high-traffic areas is becoming a challenge. Budgeting for food on a trip now requires as much planning as flights and hotels.
13. The “fun” part of travel is disappearing.
With all the rising costs, delays, and complications, travel no longer feels as spontaneous or enjoyable as it used to. The pressure to plan every detail perfectly just to avoid extra fees or unexpected issues takes away the excitement that once made travelling worth it. Many travellers now find themselves wondering if the stress outweighs the reward. What used to be an adventure now feels like a carefully coordinated mission, making some question whether staying home and saving money might be the better option.
