Bleisure travel, the growing trend that blends business trips with leisure activities, is expected to see significant growth in 2025. This rise is largely due to companies prioritizing frequent business travel and focusing more on employee well-being.
Amy Lee, Senior Vice-President of Finance, MICE, People, and Culture at Holiday Tours & Travels Sdn Bhd, said that the Asia-Pacific and Europe regions are likely to continue leading the adoption of bleisure travel. These areas are popular not only for business but also for leisure, making them attractive destinations for business travelers looking to combine work and relaxation.
Emerging markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East are also expected to see increasing interest. These regions offer a mix of affordability, accessibility, and unique cultural experiences, which appeal to both business and leisure travelers.
“As companies embrace more flexible travel policies and focus on employee well-being, bleisure travel is set to become a more prominent part of business travel,” Lee said. “While the overall growth will depend on global economic trends, this segment is poised for expansion as corporate travel rebounds.”
Lee also highlighted that sustainability is becoming an important factor in travel decisions. Regional travel, which is more eco-friendly and cost-effective, is in demand as businesses look to reduce their environmental footprint.
The shift towards work-life balance is another driver of bleisure travel. Many companies are using this trend to improve employee satisfaction, engagement, and productivity. Advances in travel technology, such as real-time planning tools, have also made it easier to combine business and leisure activities during trips.
As global travel picks up again, bleisure is evolving from a niche trend to an essential part of corporate travel strategies. It aligns with employee preferences and can help businesses boost retention. The return of international travel and the rise of hybrid work models have also contributed to the popularity of bleisure travel, where business trips are extended for leisure or remote work in exciting locations.
