Understanding Covid-19 restrictions and preparing the required documents continue to be the main pre-travel stress points for business travellers, despite the relaxation of these rules in many countries.
A global survey of 875 corporate travellers by BCD Travel revealed that pre-trip stress was mainly caused by complex procedures and sudden changes rather than the booking process.
Flight delays and cancellations were the number one cause of stress for travellers while on the road, alongside “tight” connections and having to travel in economy cabins on long-haul flights.
Travellers said the biggest post-trip stress factors were catching up on office work and family duties, as well as preparing expense reports.
The survey also highlighted that only half (51 per cent) of employees felt their company provided wellbeing support for travellers. This was despite the majority (89 per cent) saying that employee wellbeing was currently a priority at their organisation.
Mike Janssen, global chief operating officer and chief commercial officer at BCD, said: “As employees get back to travel, companies should be aware of key stress factors for business travellers, stemming from disruptions related to ongoing pandemic uncertainties, travel restrictions and geopolitical events.”
BCD said organisations could improve wellbeing support for travellers by ensuring their policies allowed options such as booking direct flights, seat selection, access to fast-track security programmes and business class travel for long-haul journeys.