Business Travel in the New Year 2014 Predictions

As a robust business travel year comes to an end and the economy continues to improve, Chris McGinnis, Best Western’s business travel expert and author of YouMustBeTrippin.com offers his predictions for all travel related to business in 2014.  

1. A strong and increasing demand for air travel means that travelers who want the most convenient flights and most comfortable seats will have to book their trips further in advance. Last-minute bookers may still be able to get a small discount, but they will also get a middle seat on a red eye flight or have to make a stop or two to reach their destinations – leading to big headaches for business travelers.

2. The Caribbean will be a good travel deal due to bad publicity in the last year surrounding the cruising industry. This winter, travelers can expect good deals and offers on last-minute cruises.

3. Al carte options that are trending in other sectors will be popular for airport clubs, as well. Business travelers will opt in for a pay-as-you-go experience instead of forking over the $400 to $500 for an airline club membership.

4. Some airlines and hotels will continue to devalue loyalty programs as demand for travel increases in 2013. If the economy starts to cool, expect the opposite to happen, as companies use their loyalty programs to try and woo back business travelers. Best Western has maintained the same point values since 2002.