The travel industry was hit hard by the pandemic. Leisure trips came to a halt, business travel slowed down, and the travel industry’s revenue hit a low point. The business world adapted to these changes and utilised modern technology to continue with operations. Face-to-face meetings with international clients were held over virtual conferences, eliminating the need for travel.
As the pandemic’s restrictions begin to lift, many business owners are adopting a more flexible approach to work. International business travel will be reserved for important meetings that need a face-to-face approach. The way employees travel will be more thought-out and planned to ensure companies abide by upcoming safety regulations.
Here are a few ways business travel etiquette will change in the future.
Domestic travel will grow
Many people are likely to favour travelling in a car, over a crowded train or plane. Companies will see a rise in mileage reimbursement requests and should keep an eye on travel spending budgets.
Train travel will grow in mainland Europe and the UK, where there are strong rail connections to business-centric destinations. For example, employees could take the London to Hartlepool train for a meeting and return on the same day.
However, train and car travel will result in longer travel journeys and increased costs. Train and car travel is a brilliant option for people who don’t like security checks, queues and waiting around in airports.
New rules in travel
Governments may impose new rules and regulations in different countries. Different rules will make it more difficult and complicated to travel. For example, people may have to show their vaccination certificate before travelling.
Airports will need to change their infrastructure and process to include these new rules and regulations. These new safety procedures may consist of face masks, sanitation stations, carry-on luggage changes and much more. With more procedures, there are likely to be long wait times in airports.
Less business travel
Businesses will need to look into the logistics of travel before booking their employees for any international conferences. Business owners should build an action plan on what to do if a lockdown is imposed when an employee is travelling in a country.
Businesses may find it’s more effective to hold virtual conferences over travelling internationally in the next few years. Employees will seek more support, information, insight and plans on how to travel during the post-pandemic era. Virtual meetings will reduce a company’s carbon footprint and help employees to stay safe and productive.
