European Travel Managers Express Concern Over Rising Costs
Rising Costs for US Travel
Nearly half – 48% – of European travel and procurement managers anticipate higher costs for travel to and from the United States. This is according to recent data presented at the Business Travel Show Europe. The increased expense could seriously affect businesses.
Travel Concerns
The survey highlighted some worries: 35% of participants think traveling between the United States and Europe will become more difficult. Another 44% believe that less emphasis on climate change quotas may hurt companies' sustainable travel efforts. These factors could impact travel costs and company policies.
Future Expectations
When asked about their organization’s likelihood of traveling to and from the United States:
- 9% said they were more likely
- 12% indicated less likelihood
- 29% of respondents were unsure
Most travel managers are proceeding with caution.
Travel Manager Perspectives
According to marketing director Jonathan Carter-Chapman, the current administration's policies could significantly reshape corporate travel. Trade tariffs, flight bans, and environmental legislation are under review, making many travel managers cautious, especially given increasing financial pressures.
Corporate Travel Planning Challenges
The Business Travel Show Europe will host a session called “How Geopolitics Will Reshape Your Company’s Travel Programme.” The session will cover potential changes in travel frequency, destination options, and overall trip costs, and offer managers strategic insights and updates on global travel risks.
New Travel Authorization Schemes
The survey also found that 83% of travel managers know about the UK’s ETA scheme and the EU’s ETIAS initiative, both set to launch in the final quarter of the year. Only 14% were unaware of these requirements. These new authorizations mark a big change in how we travel.
Who Took Part in the Survey?
The survey involved 115 professionals, including travel managers, procurement specialists, and executive assistants, mainly from the UK and Europe.
Mark Your Calendar
The Business Travel Show Europe returns to ExCeL London on June 25-26, 2025. The event anticipates over 700 qualified buyers and 200 exhibitors. It's a chance to network and learn about the latest industry trends.
Final Thoughts
European travel managers are worried about rising travel costs and the current geopolitical situation. Staying informed is key with new travel authorization schemes arriving.
My advice: Always double-check the fine print. Hidden fees can quickly inflate your budget. Remember to consider things like baggage fees and exchange rates when comparing travel options. It's worth it.
