2026 marks a pivotal time for business travel, as tech advancements and global uncertainty redefine how organizations plan and manage their journeys. Travel programs are moving beyond short-term fixes and into a more intentional era, one shaped by smarter technology, evolving traveler expectations, and a growing emphasis on resilience.
From the rise of human-centric AI to renewed focus on sustainability, loyalty, and cost agility, the year ahead will challenge travel managers to balance innovation with trust, efficiency with experience, and global connectivity with care.
To help you prepare for this year and beyond, Direct Travel has compiled a 2026 Forecast with trends, predictions, and actionable steps that travel managers can download and share with their team:
Human-Centric AI Takes Center Stage
Artificial intelligence is no longer experimental in corporate travel. In 2026, AI is embedded across the travel lifecycle, powering predictive insights, personalized recommendations, and faster issue resolution.
In our 2026 Business Travel Forecast, we explore how expectations are evolving as AI adoption accelerates:
- Travel leaders are prioritizing human-centric AI, technology designed to enhance service and decision-making rather than replace the human touch.
- Trust, transparency, and high-quality data have become essential, carrying as much weight as speed, scale, and automation.
- Agentic AI is beginning to act autonomously on behalf of travelers, identifying disruptions, evaluating options, and initiating solutions without manual prompts.
As these capabilities mature, AI will continue to reshape how travel is planned and managed. The most effective programs will be those that use this intelligence to anticipate traveler needs, reduce friction, and support decision-making while keeping people firmly at the center.
Loyalty Becomes More Personal and Purpose-Driven
In 2026, loyalty programs are less about points accumulation and more about personalization, everyday utility, and experiences that align with individual preferences. Review our whitepaper to learn how traditional loyalty models are evolving as travelers seek value that feels relevant and flexible.
Travelers are curating trips more intentionally, prioritizing quality, convenience, and purpose over volume. This shift presents an opportunity for travel managers to rethink how loyalty can support both traveler satisfaction and policy compliance.
Programs that integrate personalization directly into booking tools and clearly communicate value are better positioned to reduce leakage and strengthen engagement.
Sustainability Shifts from Commitment to Action
Sustainability is no longer defined by long-term pledges alone. In 2026, travel managers face growing pressure to demonstrate measurable progress, supported by transparent data and consistent reporting.
While regulatory requirements continue to vary by region, traveler expectations are converging. Employees increasingly want clarity around the environmental impact of their trips, along with practical guidance for making more responsible choices.
As our forecast explains, travel programs that embed sustainability into policy, booking workflows, and traveler education are more likely to see stronger adoption and long-term credibility.
Cost Resilience Remains a Strategic Imperative
Managing travel spend has always been a priority, but the way organizations approach cost control is evolving. Our whitepaper analyzes how fixed pricing models and annual sourcing cycles are increasingly giving way to more agile, data-driven strategies.
With dynamic pricing, global events, and ongoing economic uncertainty influencing costs, travel managers are placing greater emphasis on resilience and the ability to adapt quickly without compromising the traveler experience.
In the forecast, you’ll learn why real-time insights, predictive analytics, and proactive supplier engagement will be essential tools for navigating price volatility in the year ahead.
Global Connectivity Grows in Complexity
Business travel remains essential to global growth, but the factors shaping where and how organizations travel are becoming increasingly interconnected. In 2026, travel programs must account for a wider range of influences such as:
- Geopolitical shifts
- Evolving border policies
- Climate-related disruptions
- Digital security risks
Our forecast also explores how current-day duty of care extends beyond traditional risk management. Travelers now expect real-time communication, clear guidance, and immediate access to support whenever plans change.
Programs supported by strong global partnerships, integrated technology, and 24/7 human expertise will be best equipped to keep travelers safe, informed, and productive.
Preparing for What’s Next
The future of business travel will be shaped by how effectively organizations align their technology with human needs. Travelers increasingly want smarter tools, greater transparency, and experiences that feel intentional and supported.
For travel managers, success in 2026 will depend on building programs that are adaptable, data-driven, and grounded in trust.
To explore these trends in greater depth and understand how to turn them into action, download our free 2026 Business Travel Forecast. Inside, you’ll find expert insights, practical guidance, and strategic frameworks designed to help future-proof your travel program. Download the whitepaper to get started.
