Business Travellers Want Higher Priority on Personal Safety

We’re living in tumultuous times, and nearly six in 10 Canadian (57%) and American (59%) business travellers say their employer could do more to protect them on work trips.

As well, more than two-thirds of business travellers overall says they would decline trips if safety isn’t prioritized.

The insights come from a new survey commissioned by travel risk management comp-any World Travel Protection. 

The Opinium online survey was conducted with 2000 people who travel for business at least once a year, with 500 respondents from each of Canada, the U.S., the UK and Australia.

Younger employees report feeling especially vulnerable, with 63% of Canadian respondents and 60% of U.S. respondents under 34 saying their employer could do more to keep them safe. That compares to just 36% of those over 55 in both countries.

This younger cohort was also more likely to want frequent check-ins, with 68% of U.S. respondents and 66% of Canadian respondents under 34 saying they wanted more regular contact while travelling.

While most business travelers reported receiving some support for work trips, such as access to emergency helplines, pre-travel briefings, government-issued advisories, or travel risk management providers, the survey revealed a gap between what is offered and what employees want. 

Only 7% of U.S. and 14% of Canadian respondents said they received no support at all, but the majority expressed a desire for more proactive engagement, clearer guidance, and regular reassurance while away from home.

“Travel preparation is essential,” said Frank Harrison, Regional Security Director, Americas, of World Travel Protection. 

“Travellers need comprehensive pre-trip briefings, clear information about local risks, and the confidence of knowing exactly where to get help while abroad. Insurance only steps in after an incident, but it does nothing to prevent medical or security issues or to support employees when they need help most.”