The Future of Corporate Travel: Incentive Travel Meets Bleisure

With so many businesses competing to attract top talent through perks and benefits, how do you truly stand out? One trend that is turning heads is bleisure— and although this concept isn’t entirely new, work trips and incentive travel have surged in popularity— and for good reason. These unique experiences do more than reward employees— they change mindsets, elevate productivity, and foster loyalty.

A 2023 survey from an Expedia Group report states that bleisure trips are on the rise with 89% of business travelers expressing interest in adding leisure time to their work trips in coming years. Growing company travel has become an escalating investment, particularly for employee rewards and recognition. As businesses continually look for creative ways to engage employees, incentive trips have become a popular reward for high performances. According to the Incentive Research Foundation, incentive travel is bouncing back strongly with 78% of companies reporting an increase in travel budgets for employee recognition events in 2024.

As bleisure continues to gain momentum, companies that embrace this trend can reap a variety of benefits. Not only is it an attractive incentive for employees and new hires, but it offers several key advantages:

1. Boost Employee Retention

Satisfied employees are more likely to stay with their company long-term. With employee turnover costing up to 200% of a C- suite’s salary, retention is more important than ever. Incentive travel programs are a powerful way to boost morale, showing employees they are valued and appreciated—keeping them with your organization for the long haul.

2. Skyrocket Motivation

Employees perform their best when they feel inspired and recognized for their efforts. Bleisure trips can offer experiences that spark excitement and motivation by providing a meaningful reward to hard work and dedication.

3. Foster Loyalty

Now more than ever, employees are drawn to workplaces that prioritize well-being. Investing in incentive travel is a way to demonstrate your commitment to employee happiness. By offering memorable travel experiences, you create a sense of belonging, showing your team they’re valued and giving them every reason to stay.

4. Enhance Productivity

Low productivity costs US employers between $483 and $605 billion every year. One way to address this challenge is by giving employees opportunities to recharge and feel valued. Bleisure travel can deliver rejuvenated employees who return refreshed, less stressed, and ready to perform at their peak. And the data backs it up: less stress leads to increased productivity, benefiting both employees and your business as a whole.

The rise of bleisure and incentive travel isn’t just a passing trend—it reflects a shift in how employees view work-life balance and their workplace priorities. Companies that recognize this shift and act on it will create stronger connections with their teams and gain competitive advantages. Moving forward, embracing the blend of work and leisure can help build a happier, healthier, and more productive workplace— one trip at a time.