More Travel for Work, Yet Positive Impact on Careers, Indicates New Study

Engine, a business travel platform, has released its first Powering Travel Trends Report. The study focuses on ‘Road Warriors’—individuals whose jobs involve substantial travel. 2,000 participants from sectors such as construction, transportation, engineering, field service, and disaster relief participated in the survey.

The report highlights a rising trend in work-related travel, with 93% of the respondents confirming an increase over the past year. This surge is linked to higher labor demand, with 77% attributing increased travel to this factor. More than half of the surveyed individuals spend over three months annually on the road, while 10% are away for over six months. Correspondingly, employers have noticed an escalation in company travel spending.

The study also revealed a positive outlook towards business travel. Around 35% credit their work-related travel for career growth, and 45% believe it has broadened their perspective. Interestingly, the majority stated their travel experiences positively impacted their mental and physical health.

However, uncertainty regarding travel schedules emerged as a significant concern. Nearly 39% have quit jobs due to frequent, last-minute changes in their schedule. This factor outweighs others, such as rigorous travel schedules or time away from family, as reasons for job changes. The ability to control travel schedules was a crucial aspect of job satisfaction.

The survey, carried out by Phronesis Partners, included 800 employees who travel for work and 1,200 employees managing travel at US companies across various sectors.