The New Era of Business Travel: How Extended Stays Are Shaping the Future

Business travel is back on the radar, but it’s not exactly business as usual. Today’s road warriors are shaking up the status quo by embracing longer stays and putting their health first, and hotels are scrambling to keep up with this exciting shift.

Take Gloria Gonzalez from Fort Worth, for example. She used to be the queen of back-to-back trips, but now she’s rethinking her strategy. Drew Pinto, Marriott’s chief revenue and technology officer, is more focused than ever on how flight schedules and jet lag impact his performance. And Sophie Hulgard from Accor? She’s keenly aware of the physical toll that constant travel can take.

What’s driving this change? It’s all about prioritizing well-being for long-term success. The old rush-and-cram mentality is out; now, it’s all about arriving rested and ready to shine. Gone are the days of squeezing in as many meetings as possible and dealing with travel fatigue.

One major trend capturing attention is extended-stay travel. With massive investments in infrastructure and tech, there’s a growing demand for home-like comforts during long assignments. Hotels like Marriott’s StudioRes, Hilton’s LivSmart Studios, Hyatt Studios, and Wyndham’s Echo Suites are stepping up their game with amenities designed for extended stays—think fully equipped kitchens and spacious workspaces.

Blended travel is another hot trend. Around 60% of business travelers are stretching their trips to mix business with leisure. This trend is here to stay, and hotels are adapting by offering perks that cater to both needs. From ergonomic workspaces in leisure-focused properties to family-friendly amenities, hotels are reimagining how they serve modern travelers.

Health and wellness are taking center stage in the business travel experience. Hotels are tackling issues like sleep, diet, and fitness with tailored services. For instance, IHG’s InterContinental hotels now offer the Timeshifter app to help combat jet lag. Hilton has rolled out Peloton machines across its U.S. properties, and Hyatt and Accor are ramping up their fitness and dietary options. Some hotels are even offering wellness programs with mindfulness and stress management workshops to help guests stay balanced on the road.

The idea of the “executive athlete” is catching on, emphasizing the need to manage travel stress effectively. Tools like CWT’s traveler well-being dashboard are helping companies keep track of how travel impacts employees’ health. These innovations highlight a growing trend of crafting travel experiences that support both well-being and productivity.

As this new era of business travel unfolds, it’s clear that the focus has shifted from just managing logistics to enhancing the overall travel experience. Hotels that recognize and adapt to these evolving needs will not only attract a more discerning clientele but will also set new standards for what it means to travel well. Embracing these trends is not just about keeping up; it’s about leading the way in a transformed landscape where well-being and comfort are paramount.

Contact our leadership team, Jim Wright Sr. Vice President, Corporate Sales today to discover how we can elevate your business travel experience.