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As the world continues to embrace the dynamics of remote work, the role of business travel has never been more critical—or complex. The 2024 Global Business Travel Survey, conducted by SAP Concur, sheds light on the shifting landscape of corporate travel. This survey, which gathered insights from 3,750 business travellers and 600 travel managers across 24 global markets, reveals the challenges and trends shaping the future of business travel. The findings highlight the tensions between cost management, traveller expectations, and the increasing demand for sustainable and secure travel options.

The Pressure on Travel Managers: Overburdened and Unappreciated

In an era when corporate travel has become essential for market expansion and professional development, travel managers are feeling the strain. Many report feeling unappreciated and unsupported in their roles, and a significant number are contemplating career changes in the coming year. The survey indicates that those who remain in their positions recognise the urgent need for change.

Business travellers today expect flexibility and prioritize their safety, work-life balance, and adherence to social and environmental values. Many travellers are willing to sidestep company policies to meet these expectations, which only adds to the burden on travel managers. Balancing these demands with organizational cost-cutting measures has become a herculean task for many in the industry.

Flexibility Versus Cost Management: A Delicate Balancing Act

One of the survey’s most striking findings is the growing tension between travel flexibility and cost management. Globally, 91% of business travellers have experienced reductions in travel flexibility over the past year. This trend is mirrored in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ), where 89% of travellers report similar cutbacks.

These cuts often involve fewer overnight stays, more indirect flights, and restrictions on combining personal travel with business trips. In response, 80% of ANZ business travellers now book an additional time to account for potential travel disruptions. These adjustments underscore the pressing need for companies to revisit and refine their travel policies.

Jonathan Beeby, Managing Director of SAP Concur Australia and New Zealand, emphasizes balancing: “Companies can achieve cost management while still meeting traveller needs. Approving overnight stays to reduce travel fatigue, offering non-stop flight options, and allowing the combination of personal and business travel are practical steps that can make a significant difference.”

Safety and Wellbeing: Top Priorities for Business Travelers

Safety concerns continue to be a significant factor in the decline of business trips. The survey reveals that 44% of global business travellers and 37% of ANZ travellers cite safety concerns as a primary reason for reducing business travel. Political and social issues further complicate the travel landscape, with 35% of global and 36% of ANZ travellers factoring these issues into their travel decisions.

The burden on travel managers is palpable, with many reporting burnout due to the myriad factors they must consider when planning business trips. Over a third (35%) of ANZ travel managers feel they are being asked to take on more strategic roles without adequate training.

Beeby underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure traveller safety: “Organizations must provide detailed safety guidelines for high-risk destinations, offer real-time updates on political and social conditions, and build flexibility into travel plans to accommodate unexpected changes.”

Sustainability: A Growing Influence on Travel Decisions

Sustainability has emerged as a significant factor influencing travel decisions. The survey shows that over a quarter (27%) of global business travellers are willing to decline trips due to environmental concerns, rising to 28% in ANZ. Additionally, 36% of global travel managers and 39% of ANZ travel managers report struggling to meet sustainability goals due to budget constraints.

In ANZ, companies are equally focused on three priorities: increasing the use of sustainable travel options (32%), meeting employee demands for flexible travel options (35%), and cutting travel costs (33%). This trifecta of priorities places immense pressure on travel managers.

“Aligning sustainability initiatives with budget constraints is achievable,” Beeby says. “Strategies such as implementing carbon offset programs, encouraging the use of eco-friendly transportation options, and providing clear guidelines on sustainable travel practices can help companies meet their sustainability goals without compromising their budgets.”

The Role of AI and Technology: The Future of Travel Management

As companies look for ways to streamline travel management, AI and technology are seen as potential solutions. The survey reveals that 95% of business travellers globally are open to AI-enabled booking options, yet fewer than one in ten currently feel comfortable using these tools. In ANZ, a similar trend is observed, with 95% of travellers open to AI solutions but only 4% expressing comfort with these options.

Beeby highlights the need for comprehensive training and support to facilitate the adoption of AI tools: “Adopting AI tools can significantly enhance the efficiency of travel management. However, successful implementation requires providing thorough training for both travel managers and business travelers, ensuring data privacy and protection, and using AI-driven insights to optimize travel plans.”

Adapting to the Future: A Strategic Approach to Business Travel

The 2024 Global Business Travel Survey offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities facing the future of corporate travel. Business travellers demand more flexibility and safety, often bypassing organizational policies to meet their needs. Companies, in turn, must leverage advanced tools and technologies to track expenses, ensure traveller safety, and meet sustainability goals.

By aligning corporate travel policies with the evolving expectations of employees and the organisation’s strategic needs, companies can effectively support their travel managers and adapt to the complex and ever-changing business travel environment.

The road ahead may be challenging, but with the right strategies and tools, businesses can confidently navigate the future of corporate travel.