Business travel across Europe is surging in 2026, with forecasts showing robust growth despite lingering economic and geopolitical uncertainties. According to the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), European business travel spending is set to hit approximately €390 billion this year, up significantly from previous levels and signaling strong demand for purposeful, high-value trips. Corporate budgets are rising around 5-6% on average, with European companies particularly optimistic about increased investment in mobility.
At WegoEuro, operating from the epicenter of European business in Brussels, we’ve seen firsthand how professionals are adapting to new realities: tighter sustainability requirements, AI-driven planning, and a focus on traveler wellbeing. Here’s an updated guide to thriving in the 2026 business travel landscape.
1. Embrace Purposeful & Sustainable Travel
Companies are scrutinizing every trip more closely—fewer “just in case” journeys, more high-impact meetings.
- Key trend: Sustainability is no longer optional. Many firms now require carbon receipts or offsets at booking. Airlines and platforms increasingly integrate offset options during checkout.
- Practical tip: Prioritize direct flights and high-speed rail (e.g., Eurostar, TGV, ICE) for intra-Europe routes—lower emissions and often more productive travel time with Wi-Fi and workspaces.
- Hack: Use WegoEuro‘s filters to spot direct or low-emission options quickly. Book rail + flight combos when available for seamless, greener itineraries.
2. Leverage AI and Automation for Smarter Planning
AI is moving from hype to practical application in corporate travel.
- 2026 reality: Tools now handle dynamic pricing alerts, personalized itineraries, and even automated expense reconciliation.
- Pro move: Set up price tracking on WegoEuro for your frequent routes (Brussels-Frankfurt, London-Paris, etc.)—get notified of drops instantly.
- Efficiency boost: Use airline apps for mobile boarding passes, real-time gate changes, and biometric check-in where rolled out (expanding fast in major hubs).
3. Prioritize Traveler Wellbeing as a Core KPI
Burnout is a real concern; forward-thinking companies now track wellbeing metrics alongside ROI.
- Trends: Compression socks, hydration reminders, and lounge access for rest are becoming standard perks. Mental health breaks during long trips are encouraged.
- Tips: Book business class on longer hauls (even short-haul premium economy upgrades pay off). Choose hotels with gyms, quiet zones, or wellness programs.
- Airport hack: At Brussels Airport (our base), lounges like Diamond offer showers and calm spaces—ideal for refreshing before meetings.
4. Optimize Costs Without Sacrificing Flexibility
Airfares and hotels remain elevated, but rate increases are moderating (2-4% expected in many segments).
- Booking strategy: Lock in flexible fares 4-8 weeks out for Europe; use miles/points for upgrades on return legs.
- Mixed approach: Economy outbound, premium return—balances cost and recovery time.
- Expense pro tip: Use corporate cards that earn rewards; track everything digitally for fast reimbursement.
5. Navigate Airports & Connections Like a Veteran
With EES (Entry/Exit System) biometrics fully in place for non-EU travelers, borders are smoother for repeats but require initial registration.
- Brussels Airport edge: Compact, fast security (10-20 min average), family/fast lanes, and excellent lounge network.
- Other hubs: Amsterdam Schiphol for single-terminal ease; Munich for top-rated lounges and calm vibe; avoid peak times at CDG or LHR if possible.
- Layover strategy: Turn long connections into productive time—lounges for calls, or quick city escapes via train if policy allows.
6. Hybrid & Bleisure Opportunities
Many professionals extend trips for personal time when schedules align.
- Trend: “Bleisure” (business + leisure) is rising, especially with Gen Z entering the workforce.
- Smart play: Add weekends using points for hotels or flights—check WegoEuro multi-city searches for cost-effective extensions.
Business travel in 2026 is about quality over quantity: more meaningful meetings, greener choices, and better personal balance. With Europe’s rail network, compact geography, and improving tech, it’s easier than ever to make every trip count.
Heading out on business soon? Visit WegoEuro to compare flights, track prices, and secure the best business-class or flexible options tailored to your needs.
