Business Travel Holds Steady as Travel Costs Rise
According to SAP Concur data, business travel costs continued to rise in the first half of 2026, but companies largely maintained travel activity. Airfare rose over 8%, hotel rates nearly 6%, and car rental costs about 5%. Average gas-related expenses increased approximately 22%, from $50 in February to $61 in April. Car rental bookings declined about 4%, while rail bookings increased about 4%. Premium cabin bookings rose about 9% year over year, economy stayed flat, and premium economy declined about 15%. A survey found 90% of frequent business travelers say work travel has positively impacted their careers.
Impact and considerations
The data shows that despite rising costs, companies still value business travel, but transportation patterns are shifting, such as toward rail. Travel managers should monitor cost trends and employee preferences.
Key points
- Airfare rose over 8%, hotel rates nearly 6%, car rental about 5%.
- Average gas transaction rose from $50 to $61, up 22%.
- Car rental bookings declined 4%, rail bookings increased 4%.
- Premium cabin bookings rose 9%, economy flat, premium economy down 15%.
Sources and time
- Primary source
- SAP Concur
- Other sources
- 0
- First source publication
- 9 Jun 2026, 20:40
- Page published
- 13 Aug 2026, 08:14
- Last updated
- 9 Jun 2026, 20:40
- Original links
- SAP Concur Blog：Business Travel Holds Steady as Travel Costs Rise (opens in a new tab)Primary source · en · Published 9 Jun 2026, 20:40