Ahead of expectations, the outlook of business travel gains strength - tied closely to advances in artificial intelligence - as revealed by new findings from American Express Global Business Travel. Published just after the start of March 2026, data gathered the previous month show a shared belief across workers in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Ease around work-related journeys seems likely within five years' time. Progress doesn’t feel distant anymore.
Despite lingering doubts among some professionals, nearly half of them see better days coming for work-related trips. Optimism stands at 44 percent - well above the 17 percent still unsure. Behind the rise are the expectations around smart technology streamlining. Many now believe artificial intelligence could reshape how business travel unfold.
Business travelers appreciate how artificial intelligence offers customized suggestions along with specific guidance for trips. Over the next few years, many anticipate it will handle repetitive work that eats up time - things like sorting through options or organizing schedules, booking flights, hotels, and transportation, shopping and managing purchases during trips, providing real-time support for issues encountered on the road.
Few doubt AI's role in key tasks today. Though numbers differ slightly, most business travelers accept automated help - 72 percent see it managing reservations without issue. When problems arise during trips, roughly seven out of ten believe artificial intelligence could respond well. Trust holds steady even under pressure.
Gen Z Ahead of Older Generations
A noticeable shift appears when looking across age groups. Younger individuals - typically under thirty - show stronger belief in technology's role. Not just more convinced that artificial intelligence will improve work-related journeys, they also express greater hope for smoother travel experiences ahead. What sets them apart is this dual outlook: faith in systems, plus a brighter view of movement itself.
54% of Gen Z respondents expect business travel to become simpler in the next five years.
This compares to 45% among Millennials and just 20% of Generation X.
Starting strong, Gen Z embraces real-world AI uses more readily than earlier groups. Trust in automated systems grows when handling costs - especially among younger users. While most people accept AI for managing expenses, a larger share of Gen Z agrees. Data shows 68% overall confidence in AI simplifying reports; within that group, young adults reach 74%. Though differences exist, the trend leans toward wider acceptance.
Still, that hopeful outlook shares space with clear struggles among younger travelers. Even though they’re comfortable with technology, members of Gen Z experience business trips as tense and poorly organized.
19% describe business trips as feeling like a "tiresome obligation", 41% struggle with organizing trips, 40% find submitting expense reports complicated and often avoid it as a result.
Trouble understanding the process leads many to delay or ignore submissions altogether. Some give up because forms seem unclear or time-consuming. When paperwork feels like a hurdle, avoiding it becomes common behavior. Confusion around rules makes follow-through unlikely for a large group. A fair number just walk away rather than face the hassle
One in three young employees avoid claiming back big expenses. Roughly 30% of those from Gen Z let refunds above £100, simply due to red tape. That number dips to 21% among Millennials, then falls sharply - only 7% of Gen X do the same. The burden hits hardest at the start of careers. Younger staff feel it more when paperwork piles up.
Future AI Tools Emerging
With speed shaping new directions, many companies in travel tech push forward using artificial intelligence. Moving ahead, these systems work not just to react but to anticipate needs before they arise.
When users choose, they can move easily into conversations with real agents. Moving from automated help happens without delays if someone wants it. Assistance by actual people becomes available exactly when asked for. Switching systems feels natural because steps are clear and immediate. Support through live contact opens up whenever needed
Business travel might soon feel easier, thanks to deeper AI integration in how companies manage trips. Instead of just solving problems, systems start anticipating needs before they arise. Younger workers entering the labor market tend to expect seamless digital experiences. Their influence may push service providers to adapt quickly. Preferences rooted in convenience and efficiency are likely to set new standards. What feels optional today might turn essential tomorrow. Expectations evolve - not overnight, but steadily.
