Business travel—it's both thrilling and taxing. Sure, it opens doors to new opportunities and exciting connections, but it also comes with its fair share of stress. With business travel spending expected to hit R25.8 trillion by 2027, it’s high time we address the real issue of travel burnout.
Travelling for work often means long flights, strange beds, and a whirlwind schedule. This constant movement can take a toll. Studies show that frequent travellers are more likely to face health issues like obesity, anxiety, and sleep problems. In fact, those jetting around more than 21 nights a month are 92% more likely to struggle with obesity. It’s not just about dealing with the travel itself but also keeping up the work while away from home.
Here are a few ways to ease travel stress for your employees:
After a tough trip, everyone needs a breather. Danielle Sabrina, CEO of Society22, suggests offering flexible time off post-travel. “Letting employees take a day or two to recover after a trip can really boost their job satisfaction,” she says. This extra time helps them unwind, deal with jet lag, and get back into their routine without feeling rushed.
DID YOU KNOW? Achieving work-life balance significantly boosts employee satisfaction by reducing stress and preventing burnout. When employees can manage their personal and professional responsibilities effectively, they experience increased job satisfaction, higher productivity, and improved mental health. Studies show that balanced work-life dynamics lead to greater overall happiness and enhanced workplace engagement.
Travel days are already exhausting enough. Natalie Norfus from The Norfus Firm recommends steering clear of meetings on the same day employees travel. “Travel can be unpredictable—flights can get delayed or cancelled. Giving employees the day off from meetings helps them settle in and be more focused,” she explains. This way, they can tackle their work with a clear head.
SCARY FACT: Sleep deprivation impairs cognitive functions, including reasoning and decision-making. A tired professional struggles with attention, memory, and problem-solving skills, leading to poor judgment and decreased productivity in meetings. Research shows that lack of sleep reduces the brain's ability to process information effectively, compromising sound reasoning and decision-making.
Comfort makes a huge difference. Ashlee Brennan, VP of Leave Compliance at AbsenceSoft, suggests splurging a bit on business-class seats for long flights and choosing better hotels. “Employees should be able to pick flights and hotels that fit their needs and comfort,” she says. Upgrading accommodations to include perks like gyms and spas can also make a world of difference.
GOOD TO KNOW: Even just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, like brisk walking, can significantly improve sleep quality. Exercise helps regulate the body's internal clock and increases the amount of deep sleep, reducing insomnia and sleep disturbances. This improvement occurs because physical activity promotes relaxation and better overall sleep patterns.
Too much travel can lead to burnout. Norfus advises putting limits on how many trips an employee takes each month or quarter. “Think about whether every trip is absolutely necessary, and consider using video calls instead when possible,” she says. Balancing travel with work-from-home options can really help maintain a good work-life balance.
KEY TAKEOUT: Travel burnout isn’t just a personal issue—it affects productivity and overall job satisfaction. If employees aren’t well-rested and supported, they might feel disengaged or even consider leaving. Investing in your team’s well-being can lead to better morale and loyalty.
At TravelManor, we understand how tough business travel can be. That’s why our travel management services are here to make things easier—from offering concierge support to booking comfortable accommodations. If you’re looking to improve your company’s travel policies and make your employees' travel more enjoyable, give us a shout. Let’s work together to create a travel experience that keeps your team happy, healthy, and productive.
