5 Trends Shaping Travel Risk Management Today

The field of travel risk management continues to adapt as traveler behavior, organizational policies, and global dynamics evolve. With the demand for travel steadily increasing, an effective travel risk management strategy is critical to ensuring the health, safety and well-being for your travelers. Below, we examine the key trends shaping the industry today.

1. Increased Travel: Continuing the Post-Pandemic Resurgence
As pandemic concerns continue to dissipate for many, travel has moved back to the forefront for travelers and organizations alike.

According to a recent study from Airports Council International, global passenger traffic is projected to reach 9.7 billion by the end of 2024, surpassing 2019 levels for the first time since the pandemic. The number of travelers is expected to increase further in 2025 and continue to grow gradually each year.

2. Hybrid and Remote Work Transforming Travel Dynamics
The shift to hybrid and remote work continues to reshape travel patterns. Since many organizations have embraced the hybrid and remote working models, in-person meetings, conferences, and events have proved to be necessary for a positive and productive work force. Many organizations say their teams are traveling more due to high conference and client demand, as people are seeking face-to-face human interaction. However, many people are also expressing a high desire to travel as well. This heightened demand for in-person meetings, conferences, and events underscores the critical need for effective travel risk management as we all seek more meaningful human interaction in our day to day lives.

3. Embracing Technology in Travel Risk Management
The digital transformation in travel continues to accelerate, particularly among younger generations. A significant portion of travelers, an estimated 48% percent, according to GP Solutions, now rely on airline apps for booking and managing their travel.  The trend of contactless check-in, initially adopted during the pandemic, remains favored for its convenience and safety. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) is further revolutionizing trip planning, allowing travelers to create personalized itineraries and access recommendations through AI-powered tools and chatbots. As technology becomes increasingly integral to the travel experience, organizations must adapt their risk management practices to encompass digital security and ensure travelers can safely utilize these tools.

4. Navigating Safety Concerns Amid Political Unrest
As political tensions and unrest rises globally, personal safety and security remains a main concern amongst international travelers. As such, it is crucial for organizations to have a reliable risk management plan in place that includes pre-trip health, safety, and security education to help ensure all travelers are well equipped for their international assignments.

5. Duty of Care: Rising Travel Means Rising Responsibilities
As travel volumes increase, travel managers are proportionately faced with growing duty of care responsibilities. Implementing a robust travel risk management strategy tailored to the specific risks that travelers may encounter is no longer optional, it’s critical to duty of care. Prior to sending travelers on international assignments, especially to higher-risk regions, organizations must prioritize the development of comprehensive safety protocols and situational preparedness. This proactive approach not only helps to safeguards travelers, but also reinforces a culture of responsibility and accountability to duty of care within the organization.

Conclusion
The landscape of travel risk management is defined by ongoing increases in travel, evolving work patterns, technological advancements, heightened safety concerns, and a robust organizational duty of care. By prioritizing proactive measures and adopting a comprehensive approach to risk management, organizations can ensure their travelers are well-prepared and protected. Moving forward, fostering a culture of safety and awareness will be vital in navigating the complexities of modern travel, allowing both organizations and individuals to embark on their journeys with confidence.

About On Call International:
When traveling, every problem is unique–a medical crisis, a political threat, even a common accident such as a missed flight. But every solution starts with customized care that ensures travelers are safe and protected. That’s why for over 25 years, On Call International has provided fully-customized travel risk management and emergency assistance services protecting millions of travelers, their families, and their organizations. Visit www.oncallinternational.com and follow us on LinkedIn to learn more.