Can 'Bleisure' Travel Boost Productivity in the Workplace?
59% of employees admit that mixing work obligations with travelling and exploring inspires them to be more productive in the workplace.
‘Bleisure’ (trips that combine business and leisure) is becoming an increasingly popular trend in the business world, with companies offering people the chance to blend work and play.
So, as you jump behind the wheel of your Audi Q3 or BMW i3 to attend meetings across the country or further afield, you might get the opportunity to fit in some fun time away from home.
The UK is arguably leading the way with this trend, boasting the highest number of bleisure trips (6.5 days per year on average) among European countries.
And with 45% of UK workers saying that they plan to add more leisure days to their business travels, it’s likely that bleisure is here to stay.
Ultimately, combining leisure activities with work brings a wide range of benefits to companies and employees – but how?
cinch, the faff-free way to buy a car online, has explored the advantages of embracing bleisure travel, highlighting how this trend can work wonders for busy professionals’ well-being.
Reducing burnout and everyday stress
Long days in the office can take a toll on your physical and mental health. And let’s be honest – commuting back home only to pick up an ever-growing list of domestic chores can often add to the feeling of burnout.
Sam Sheehan, motoring editor at cinch, says that bleisure travel can be the perfect medicine for stressful work duties.
“Bleisure trips can allow busy workers to relax and unwind after a demanding day of meetings,” he explains.
“Many workers, as part of their business travels, enjoy the chance to sightsee a new area, attend sports or music events or eat out at new restaurants.
“Leisure time can serve as a handy distraction from everyday work worries while also having a positive impact on your mood, stress, and anxiety levels.
“This, in turn, can get you ready for whatever is in your diary the next morning, as mental well-being makes a difference in employees’ resilience, productivity, and efficiency.”
Improving job satisfaction
Bleisure trips can also improve workers’ job satisfaction. The bonus of national or international travel is often highlighted in job descriptions to attract candidates.
In the US, 90% of employees who travel regularly for work revealed that they’d like to continue to do so for the rest of their careers.
This is also good news for employers, as it can help with engagement and retention. If staff enjoy hitting the roads of different cities and are happy with the travelling opportunities that come with their role, they are likely to be loyal to their company for longer.
A cost-effective way to explore new destinations
On average, Brits spend just under £4,000 each year on travel and holidays.
Investing in holidays is always money well spent, but it can put your savings to the test. Bleisure travel can be a more cost-effective way for people to explore new destinations.
When attending a conference or meeting abroad, it’s likely that your company will cover the costs of accommodation and travel.
If you’ve always dreamed of travelling to the city that’s hosting your work event, you can choose to extend your stay and pay for a cheaper, one-way ticket back home.
Bleisure trips are also an excellent way to take a break from everyday routines, especially if you rarely get away due to hectic schedules and life commitments. It can be a win-win: working hard in the daytime and exploring new cultures in the evening.
Strengthening team spirit
Setting off on a business trip with your colleagues can foster great team dynamics within a group.
With plenty of opportunities to connect with your colleagues in informal settings, you can strengthen your bond with your teammates and create a sense of camaraderie.
In fact, a strong team spirit should help you to thrive at work, giving you the confidence to interact with others to carry out tasks to the best of your potential.
Not only that, but it also improves professional relationships, helping develop communication skills and instilling a sense of mutual trust and respect.
