In 2019, corporate travel experienced key shifts including increased bleisure travel, shared mobility options, and a shift towards face-to-face meetings. Loyalty rewards and online booking platforms became central to optimizing costs and enhancing travel experiences. These trends highlight the evolving needs of business travelers and offer strategic insights for companies aiming to maximize efficiency and employee satisfaction during trips.

Emerging Trends in Corporate Travel for 2019

Innovations in technology have transformed the way business trips are planned and booked, enabling quick and seamless arrangements. Whether for work or leisure, a variety of options now cater to corporate travelers. Below are some notable trends observed in 2019 that are shaping the corporate travel landscape.

Growth of Bleisure Travel Combining business with leisure continues to be a favored trend. Travelers often choose destinations that serve dual purposes—business meetings and leisure activities. After work commitments, explorers indulge in shopping or sightseeing, with many including family members in their plans, striking a balance between work and relaxation.

Integrating family into travel plans also reduces time away from loved ones.

Rise of Shared Mobility and Budget-Friendly Options More companies and travelers are favoring shared transportation modes such as ride-shares, cozy bed and breakfasts, and choosing economical accommodations over luxury options. These choices help reduce expenses and enhance connectivity during trips, especially benefiting smaller firms sending staff to high-cost cities like New York or San Francisco.

Preference for Face-to-Face Meetings In-person interactions are increasingly valued over virtual meetings. Many organizations believe direct engagement strengthens relationships and improves deal outcomes. Even small enterprises opt to send representatives in person, supporting tailored travel options that suit various budgets and durations.

Growing Popularity of Loyalty Rewards Programs Loyalty schemes rewarding frequent travelers and hotel guests are gaining traction. Accumulating points can lead to discounts or complimentary trips. Companies also encourage employees to redeem rewards for personal travel, adding motivation and benefits to business trips.

Employee Well-Being as a Priority To boost morale, many travel services now offer perks such as extended leisure stays or discounted personal travel options. These offerings make business trips more enjoyable, fostering better employee satisfaction and productivity, which benefits overall company performance.

Digital Booking and Online Platforms Online booking tools provide easy access to transportation and accommodation options, offering cost savings, convenience, and deal comparison. This shift helps companies manage travel arrangements more efficiently and economically.

Overall, these trends reflect the dynamic evolution of corporate travel in 2019. Businesses can utilize these insights and available deals to optimize expenses while enhancing travel experiences. Leveraging loyalty programs and digital booking platforms can lead to significant savings on business trips.