While business travel can be beneficial for employees by allowing them to network, make connections, and develop new business opportunities, business travel also has downsides for employees.
According to a Booking.com survey, 87% of employees believe travel is important to their company’s growth, and nearly half of employees point out that travel has a positive impact on their mental and physical health.
Topping the list of positive impacts of corporate travel is career growth, with 82% of respondents saying it broadens their knowledge about the industry they work in and helps them stay motivated. Employees also cited self-confidence and personal growth (75%), mental health and growth (52%), physical health (42%) and improved relationships (39%) as benefits of business travel.
Challenges cited by employees who travel for work include lack of sleep, stress management and diet, illness, and disruptions to daily routines. About 18% of business travelers said they feel anxious about being in a new place, in addition to the increased cognitive workload that comes with planning a trip and adjusting to different cultural expectations. Nearly a quarter said they worry about getting sick while traveling due to exposure to different climates, food, and hygiene standards. 22% reported missing family and feeling lonely while traveling.
There was a notable difference in how business travel impacts the health of younger and older workers: Nearly two-thirds of people aged 18 to 35 feel that business travel has a positive impact on their mental health, but only 41% of travelers aged 46 and over say business travel has a positive impact on their mental health.
“For young professionals, business travel can be a unique opportunity for career and personal growth,” the report states. “Exposure to other cultures, networking with colleagues and experiencing different work environments can help hone skills and broaden horizons. Younger professionals also tend to have fewer family responsibilities, making them more comfortable traveling for work.”
The report found that international travel tends to have a more positive impact on physical and mental health than domestic travel.
Booking.com offers several tips travellers can use to maintain their health and happiness while on a business trip, including eating healthy, bonding with colleagues, meditating, practicing safety measures and staying connected with loved ones. Exercise, prioritising sleep and researching your destination in advance can also help reduce stress and increase happiness while travelling, the report states.
