Have you ever had a business trip stowaway?
As it turns out, most employees would invite family or a friend on a work trip — and not even tell their boss about it.
A new YouGov survey commissioned by upscale hotel chain Crowne Plaza reveals that 74% of employees would invite a family member or friend on a work trip — and nearly one in five admit they’ve already done so without telling their employer, Business Insider reported.
It’s all part of a growing trend called “blended travel” or “bleisure,” in which business travelers mix work with leisure by adding personal time or bringing loved ones along for the ride.
It’s especially appealing to Gen Z and millennials, who value work-life balance more than previous generations, according to psychologist Jean Twenge.
“They don’t want their work to be their whole life,” Twenge said, noting that younger workers are often less tied down by family obligations that might prevent such travel.
Yet many employees still hesitate to be upfront about bringing a plus one. Twenge suggests this may be because newer workers are unsure about workplace norms, especially when they’re just finding their footing in professional environments.
But some employers are beginning to embrace the shift.
Ginger Taggart, vice president of brand management for global premium brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said many companies now support blended travel — and now even encourage it, noting the presence of another can help reduce stress.
“It enables all of their workforce and their employees to benefit from the productivity of their business demands, but at the same time having their life enriched,” Taggart said.
Still, boundaries matter. Stephan Meier, professor at Columbia Business School, emphasized that employers should set clear expectations.
If the workday ends at 5 p.m. and evenings are free, there may be no harm in a guest tagging along. But when dinners and team-building events are part of the itinerary, it can be a bit more difficult to steal time away.
That’s likely why some are using their work trips to kick off a vacation by adding extra days dedicated to PTO — some thing hotels have taken note of.
The rise in “bleisure” travel has jet-setters extending the length of their hotel stays and looking to book resort destinations, especially all-inclusive properties, according to a 2024 travel forecast from Hilton.
To appease these travelers, hotels are adding Peloton bikes, pillow menus, digital room keys, plenty of outlets, wireless charging pads on nightstands and more.
“The continued rise of bleisure is reshaping standards for business travel as professionals look to balance productivity with meaningful, personal experiences,” Gary Steffen, global category head, full-service brands at Hilton, told Fast Company.
“Today’s travelers want to make every journey count. As such, we’re focused on delivering fulfilling stays where work and relaxation come together seamlessly, supported by thoughtfully designed spaces, a vibrant atmosphere, dynamic bars and restaurants, tailored service and exceptional wellness experiences.”