Mixing Business with Leisure: The Rise of “Bleisure” Travel
Have you ever extended your business trip to explore a new city or unwind after a hectic week of meetings (or at least wished it was an option)? If so, you’re not alone. A growing trend called “bleisure” travel—a blend of business and leisure—is changing how professionals approach work trips. Let’s explore this concept and see how it could enhance your next business journey.
What is bleisure travel?
Bleisure travel involves adding personal time to your work trips. This could mean extending your stay for a few days after your business commitments wrap up, or inviting family or friends to join you at your destination. It’s a way to make the most of your time away from home, combining professional responsibilities with personal experiences.
Why consider bleisure travel?
- Improved work-life balance: When you combine your business trips with a little leisure time, you can create a more balanced work-life schedule. In fact, an impressive 64% of business travelers who add leisure time to their trips report feeling an improvement in their work-life balance.
- Cost savings: Extending your work trip may save you money. You can use the money saved on travel expenses to enjoy new experiences that you might not have been able to afford otherwise.
- Personal growth: Bleisure travel opens doors to both professional and personal growth. Connect with new people in unique settings to get a different perspective, and experience different cultures.
- Reduced burnout: Taking a break during a business trip is a great way to recharge your batteries and avoid burnout. Studies show that 76% of American travelers experience negative side effects when they don’t take breaks.
Tips for successful bleisure travel
- Know your company’s policy: Before planning any leisure activities on your business trip, check your company’s bleisure travel policy. Some organizations are more supportive of this trend than others.
- Be transparent: Proactively share your plans with your colleagues and employer to make sure everyone is on the same page.
- Separate expenses: Separate your business and personal expenses. This will help you avoid any confusion or compliance issues.
- Stay productive: Remember that your business goals come first on a work trip. Make sure you have met all of your business obligations before enjoying the local activities.
- Explore local culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture and experiences to get the most out of your trip. You’ll gain invaluable insights that can even enhance your work.
The right tool for your bleisure travels
As you embark on your bleisure adventures, consider how travel and expense management tools can support your journey. Center simplifies the process of managing travel bookings and expenses, making it easier to separate business and personal costs. With features like real-time expense tracking and a user-friendly mobile app, Center ensures that you can focus on enjoying your bleisure experience while staying compliant with your company’s policies.