Embracing ‘Bleisure’ and Sustainability for a Successful Travel Policy

In the evolving landscape of corporate travel, the integration of ‘bleisure’—combining business and leisure—alongside sustainable practices is becoming increasingly vital.

Charlie Gleeson, FREENOW Ireland’s General Manager, highlights the importance of adapting travel policies to reflect these trends. Post-pandemic shifts to remote work and heightened environmental awareness necessitate a fresh approach to business travel.

Recent research by YouGov and FREENOW underscores the rising popularity of ‘bleisure’ travel, revealing that 84% of employees in Ireland wish to blend leisure with business trips. More than 70% of European business travellers feel the same on average.

This trend supports work-life balance and employee well-being, leading to refreshed, more productive employees. Companies that facilitate ‘bleisure’ travel can benefit from higher employee satisfaction, increased engagement, and improved retention rates.

Effective integration of ‘bleisure’ requires clear communication and transparent guidelines. Employers should openly discuss ‘bleisure’ options, offer incentives, and provide detailed destination information to help employees maximize their leisure time.

Sustainability is another crucial aspect of modern travel policies. According to FREENOW’s research, 81% of employees consider sustainability important in business travel decisions.

Companies can support this by partnering with eco-conscious providers, promoting public transport and cycling, and adopting electric or hybrid vehicles. Incentives for sustainable choices, such as tax-free bike purchases under the Bike to Work Scheme, can further encourage eco-friendly commuting.

By embracing ‘bleisure’ and prioritising sustainability, businesses can create travel policies that motivate employees and align with corporate values, contributing to a brighter future. The key is to review and update existing policies or develop new ones that benefit both the company and its employees.

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