Business travelers are taking to the skies just as much as in previous years, but they are increasingly taking time out for themselves, according to new research released by American Express Global Business Travel. The survey analyzed the habits of business travelers in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.
The survey found that U.S. business travelers are taking an average of seven business trips by air each year. The survey also found that those who travel outside of the U.S. for business reported taking an average of six international trips annually. According to the survey, 35% of U.S. business travelers are making more day trips compared to overnight stays; however, two-thirds of U.S. business travelers surveyed say they have extended a business trip in order to take a personal vacation in the past year.
“”As Millennials begin to make up a larger portion of the global workforce, we’re seeing more corporate employee travel behaviors that focus on alleviating travel-related stress,” said Kevin Carey, vice president and general manager, Global Client Group, American Express Global Business Travel. “These travelers place a higher value on work-life balance and are savvy about how to travel efficiently. They make the most of their time on the road and maintain their mental and physical health while away from the office.”
In spite of overall better connectivity and Wi-Fi access while in the air, it seems that travelers actually prefer to have a break from work – with 61% of U.S. business traveler respondents saying they look forward to disconnecting while in flight, as it gives them the chance to take a break and unwind. In fact, only 23% of U.S. business travelers surveyed work while on long-haul flights and 56% say they take the time to turn on a movie or dive into a good book.
In an added effort to relieve stress and stay healthy, the majority of U.S. business travelers surveyed say they turn to a combination of diet and exercise in order to maintain good health while traveling.
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American Express Global Business Travel (“GBT”) is a joint venture that is not wholly-owned by American Express Company or any of its subsidiaries (“American Express”). “American Express Global Business Travel”, “American Express” and the American Express logo are trademarks of American Express, and are used under limited license.