SAP Concur article explores how to define reasonable business meal expenses in today's economy. Due to inflation, the average dinner price in the US rose from $20 in 2010 to $40 in 2026. It suggests companies adopt guideline-based policies considering location and context rather than fixed limits.
SAP Concur analyzed 2019 and 2023 Concur Expense data to reveal category shifts. In 2023, average airfare per transaction was $770, up 10% from 2019 and more than three times any other category. Gas saw the largest increase, up 37% from $38 to $59; meals rose 30% to $56; car rental and entertainment each rose 28%; lodging rose 21% to $140; train fares fell 5% to $71. By total spend share, the 'other' category rose from 17% in 2019 to 22%, becoming the largest. By transaction volume, meals, ground transportation and lodging were most common.