The business travel industry is poised for substantial growth, with a staggering 52 percent of companies indicating plans to increase their travel budgets by 2025, as revealed by recent research from the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA).

This rise in travel isn't merely about the volume of trips; it echoes a more profound shift in traveller expectations, where alignment with personal routines and health priorities takes precedence.

According to Rategang Moroke, operations manager at Corporate Traveller, travel managers are at the centre of these shifts.

“The requests they receive hold valuable insights into how business travel is evolving and where programmes and policies need to adapt. These aren’t just one-off asks, they’re signals about what really matters to travellers, said Moroke.

Rategang Moroke, operations manager at Corporate Traveller. Picture: Supplied.

The rise of wellness requests

Increasingly, business travellers are prioritising wellness during their work trips.

One travel manager recounted a particularly unique request: a scale in the hotel room, not for luggage purposes but to aid in tracking their weight as part of a fitness programme.

This behaviour reflects a growing trend where travellers seek wellness accommodations to maintain their health goals despite their commitments away from home.

What this tells us about travellers is that wellness matters.

Business travellers expect their work travel to cater to their health needs rather than compromising their routines.

To keep up with this demand, Moroke recommends integrating wellness-friendly options within travel programmes.

“Choose hotels with gyms or health amenities, and offer meal stipends that facilitate healthier dining options. These details matter to your travellers.”

Personal preferences shape the experience

In a post-pandemic world, the importance of personal preference is growing.

One traveller recently rejected a two-bedroom suite, stating it felt unnecessarily large for a solo trip. Another specifically requested a vegetarian meal free from eggs and fish.

Preferences are not luxuries; they are essentials that create a sense of comfort and focus during business trips. It is critical in ensuring that travellers feel supported and comfortable.

To meet these evolving expectations, building detailed traveller profiles is vital.

Moroke advises: “Track preferences like room sizes, dietary needs and seating arrangements. Update profiles regularly to ensure the programme remains relevant to each person.”

Clarity matters, even for seasoned travellers

Even the most experienced travellers can find themselves overwhelmed amidst complex itineraries.

One such traveller questioned whether their 10pm flight from São Paulo was adjusted to the destination's time zone; another misrouted to the wrong London airport before asking urgently if the pilot could wait.

These incidents illustrate that travel logistics can be daunting for anyone.

Overwhelm arises not from inexperience but from the sheer volume of details etched into each journey.

Moroke advises that clear communication can prevent most logistical headaches.

“Think airport terminals, updated flight times, or even step-by-step directions for unfamiliar locations. Make life easier for your business travellers.”

Reassurance is as important as resolution

Stress can quickly escalate during business travel.

One traveller in London, overwhelmed, reached out to their travel manager back in South Africa for assistance with luggage rather than contacting the hotel directly.

While it might seem excessive, this request underlines the profound level of stress that travellers often experience.

Assistance is crucial, not only for major issues but also for smaller tasks that can feel monumental when fatigue sets in or when navigating the pressure of business obligations far from home.

Moroke shares that a human-first support approach is essential.

“Technology can handle bookings and reminders, but sometimes travellers need reassurance. Make sure your programme gives travellers access to real, empathetic assistance when they need it,” Moroke ended.

Top cybersecurity tips for safe holiday travel in South Africa

Durban shines in new festive film, ‘A Wesley South African Christmas’

Help pours in for SA woman stuck in Dubai as she faces R124 000 loan crisis

Before you head on your way, make sure you are leaving your beloved home in safe hands