If you’re a Global Mobility manager, has your job gotten bigger? Many employers are now tapping into Mobility’s expertise in compliance, tax implications, and duty of care to manage global business travel too. Some of you are thrilled. Others are staring at your already overflowing plate thinking, really? Nevertheless, it’s happening.
So, what’s trending?
Traveler wellbeing is front and center. Being a hardcore road warrior is not a sustainable lifestyle, and travelers are pushing back. Smart companies are responding with remote workdays, blended travel policies, and breathing room between trips. Happy travelers are productive travelers.
AI is no longer optional. 80% of business travelers are now using generative AI to plan and book trips. AI is automating important but time-consuming tasks like expense tracking. The question isn’t whether to use it anymore – it’s how to use it in ways that improve your program.
Sustainability is a mandate. The EU is already implementing carbon budgets, pushing rail over air, and scrutinizing supplier sustainability programs. Now is a good time to assess your program’s green framework, or build one if you haven’t already.
Every trip needs to make business sense. With airline prices climbing, companies are getting serious about ROI. Is this trip generating a sales win? Closing a client? If the answer isn’t a clear yes, you may need to look at alternatives.
Duty of care is non-negotiable. Nine out of ten employees will decline a trip if they feel unsafe. Geopolitical instability, extreme weather, health risks, and cyber threats are now permanent fixtures in travel planning. Your travelers are counting on you to have their backs, wherever they are in the world.
Accommodations are evolving. Boutique hotels, serviced apartments, and Airbnb are winning over travelers who want a homier feel. Larger hotel chains are offering flexible payment terms. Make sure your policy keeps up with what’s out there.
In-person is back in a big way. Companies have rediscovered that there is no substitute for being in the same room. Investment in conferences, client events, and relationship building is back, and it’s paying off.
Here’s where Living Abroad comes in. Whether your travelers are heading to Dubai, São Paulo, or Singapore, arriving informed makes all the difference. Our business travel guides cover cultural preparation, business protocol, health and safety, mental health resources, and LGBTQ+ climate across 155+ countries. Because informed travelers are confident travelers — and confident travelers make the most of every trip.
Every year is different. But one thing never changes. Companies want to grow, support their people, and keep costs under control all at the same time. We’d love to help you accomplish all three in 2026.
