USA 
United Kingdom
New research from Ipsos UK and American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) reveals that Gen Z workers claim to experience more stress and disruption on business travel than their older colleagues.
The study, based on a survey of more than 1,800 business travellers in the US and UK, found that 70% of Gen Z employees anticipate work trips with enthusiasm. Despite this, they report higher levels of stress and uncertainty while traveling compared to older generations.
Employers' duty of care
While Millennials (73%) and business travellers overall (68%) understand that their employer has a duty of care during business travel, only 63% of Gen Z respondents share this awareness, pointing to an opportunity for businesses to improve communication about support services and travel policies.
Millennials, particularly those aged 29-44, were the most positive about business travel, describing it as beneficial for career growth, motivation, and teamwork.
Travel disruptions were a common issue, though Gen Z workers were the most affected. Nearly half (45%) reported experiencing disruptions, compared with 36% of Millennials and 32% of Gen X employees. Despite those challenges, most travellers felt well-supported by their employers, with 90% of US respondents and 84% in the UK stating they received adequate assistance when facing travel setbacks.
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AI, ‘Bleisure’ travel, and changing expectations
Technology is playing an increasing role in business travel, with employees expressing interest in both digital tools and human support. Six in ten business travellers said they would use self-service technology during disruptions, while seven in ten preferred human assistance.
Generative AI is also making inroads, with more than half of respondents comfortable using AI for booking flights, managing expenses, and securing accommodation. Interestingly, Millennials expressed greater comfort with AI than Gen Z travelers, despite the latter being considered digital natives.
The research also highlighted the growing trend of ‘bleisure’ - blending business and leisure travel. Nearly two-thirds (62%) of US and UK business travellers said they had extended work trips for personal reasons, while 52% had incorporated work into leisure travel, raising important questions about work-life balance and corporate travel policies.
Looking ahead, 55% of respondents expect to travel more for work in the next five years, with two-thirds believing business travel will become easier over time. As organizations refine their travel policies, ensuring a balance between productivity, employee well-being, and flexibility will be key to keeping employees engaged and happy to travel if their role demands it.
