Tomorrow’s world
Andrea Caulfield-Smith, Managing Director Global Business Travel, The Advantage Travel Partnership, looks at technology that is shaping the future of corporate travel
As we look toward 2030, the corporate travel landscape is poised for a remarkable evolution – one driven by a blend of emerging technologies, new traveller expectations and global shifts in how we work and move.
For the independent travel management company (TMC) members of The Advantage Travel Partnership, it’s never been more important to prepare for the demands of tomorrow’s traveller and build a digital infrastructure ready to meet that change head-on.
By the end of this decade, Gen Z will comprise nearly 30% of the global traveller population, bringing with them digital-first expectations, sustainability values, and a desire for personalised, seamless experiences. As digital natives, they will expect TMCs to provide real-time support, intuitive digital services, and tech-enabled solutions that mirror their everyday consumer lives.
Already, we’re seeing the rise of trends such as Agentic AI, Meetings in Motion, Jetset Hacking, and Biometric Gateways – just some of the innovations that will become mainstream within five years. For our sector, these aren’t abstract concepts; they are immediate opportunities to enhance efficiency, improve experience, and reduce friction.
“It’s never been more important to prepare for the demands of tomorrow’s traveller”
Artificial Intelligence will underpin many of these developments, enabling a shift from reactive service to proactive support. AI-powered digital concierges will soon become the norm – blending automation with personalisation to anticipate travellers’ needs, make intelligent recommendations, and handle complex tasks like itinerary changes and visa compliance in seconds.
Immersive technologies – including VR, AR and ER – will also redefine pre-travel planning as the two worlds of virtual and physical come together and the convergence opens a whole new world of exciting possibilities. Travellers will be able to “walk through” their hotel, explore meeting venues, or understand the accessibility of a destination before they ever leave home. For example, an anxious traveller who may not feel comfortable stepping into an unfamiliar airport can now experience it first from the comfort of home through the power of technology. These tools not only enhance confidence and choice but also promote inclusion and accessibility, making impossible travel possible.
In parallel, FinTech innovations will transform the way travel is paid for and managed. From Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) schemes to digital wallets, open banking, and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), the payment journey will be embedded seamlessly from pre-trip to post-trip. As technology changes the way money moves around the ecosystem it will drive process efficiency, streamline payment flows, improve cash flow and drive commercial benefit.
“We must continue to engage with policymakers to champion travel innovation and align global standards”
In this hyperconnected future, Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS), driverless vehicles, and advanced aviation will integrate seamlessly into digital platforms, with 5G and 6G connectivity making real-time service delivery more viable than ever. As super apps consolidate booking, support, and loyalty into single interfaces, TMCs must position themselves as connected travel assistants across this ecosystem.
To prepare, we must encourage smart experimentation – piloting technologies like digital twins or immersive tools in low-risk environments to learn quickly and adapt. We must also invest in digital skills, ensuring our teams are equipped to use and support these tools, and upgrade our core technology infrastructure to accommodate future demands securely and effectively. Crucially, we must continue to engage with policymakers to champion travel innovation and align global standards, especially in areas like data privacy, cybersecurity, and mobility regulations.
As we approach the next decade, it’s important to recognise that travellers will have buying behaviours and needs that differ significantly from those of today. We must continuously listen, understand, and respond to the evolving needs of the TMC to stay aligned with industry shifts.
While the landscape is changing, there is still a vital role for the independent TMC in the world of tomorrow’s traveller; it simply requires us to pivot our thinking and actions to stay relevant and prepared. 2030 isn’t far off. The future traveller is already here and they’re asking for a business travel experience that’s seamless, smart, and tailored to their world.
