Beat the Burnout:
Top 3 expert tips to overcome travel fatigue
Travelling for work used to be the fun part of the job, but now it often feels exhausting. According to a survey by World Travel Protection, only 33% of business travellers say they are pleased to be back on the road for work after the pandemic. The phenomenon known as "travel fatigue" accounts for the lack of enthusiasm among the remaining two-thirds of business travellers.
Travel managers and companies often focus primarily on logistics, itineraries, and the bottom line, overlooking the mental toll that travel takes on employees, says Bonnie Smith, General Manager of FCM Travel.
"Addressing mental health and wellness isn't just a 'nice-to-have'; it's a necessity for sustainable productivity and employee satisfaction. Mitigating travel fatigue isn't solely about changing flight times or booking better hotels; it's about understanding the human factor in business travel," she says.
Fortunately, alleviating travel fatigue doesn't require a seismic shift—just a few healthy adjustments. Smith outlines three game-changing travel management strategies to combat travel fatigue:
1. Reframe Booking Habits
Last-minute bookings might seem thrilling, but they're a hotbed for stress and travel fatigue. Plan in advance and opt for flexible fares. It's not just a logistical win; it can be a mental relief for travellers.
2. Blend Technology with a Personal Touch
Sure, technology has streamlined travel management, but it can't replace the unique benefits of human interaction. Choose a Travel Management Company (TMC) like FCM Travel that combines real-time mobile updates with a personal touch—dedicated experts over anonymous call centres.
3. Prioritise Employee Wellbeing
Your team's mental and physical health should be your guiding star. Create a travel policy that feels like a home away from home to combat the feeling of feeling tired and worn out.
But let's think bigger: What if we transformed business trips from a must-have to a vault of untapped opportunities? Bonnie Smith agrees, "As we refocus on wellbeing and connection, the narrative surrounding business travel is bound to shift. We're setting the stage for not just survival but for thriving, enriched experiences."
So yes, the landscape of business travel is transforming—and that's not just good news; it's excellent news. Get ready for a revitalised, energising experience that leaves travel fatigue in the rearview mirror.