Young Professionals' Blended Travel Trend Gains Momentum as Gen Z and Millennials Seek Work-Life Balance

In response to dwindling traditional work-life balances, young professionals, particularly those belonging to Generation Z and millennials, are increasingly bending the rules of business travel by bringing along partners or friends without informing their bosses. Dubbed "bleisure," this trend is characterized by a mix of professional commitments and leisure activities during work trips.

According to a recent YouGov survey commissioned by Crowne Plaza, nearly 74% of respondents would bring a loved one on a work trip if given the opportunity. This enthusiasm is particularly evident among younger generations who desire a more balanced approach to their careers and personal lives.

Millennials like Brian, who works in the film industry, are leading the charge. He shared his experience from a 2017 trip to Cannes Film Festival, where a friend stayed in his hotel room without informing his boss. This "bleisure" arrangement turned into an unforgettable experience for both parties, with the friend still meeting people from that event.

Psychologist Jean Twenge highlights this phenomenon as part of Gen Z's approach to work, where they prioritize maintaining a healthy work-life balance over dedicating themselves solely to their profession.

"The new generation doesn't want their work to be their whole life," Twenge explained. "With fewer domestic responsibilities and an emphasis on personal time, younger professionals are extending business trips into mini-vacations."

Some employers are starting to accept this trend quietly, embracing it as a way to reduce employee stress while maintaining productivity. Vice President of Brand Management for Global Premium Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, Ginger Taggart, views bringing a plus-one as no longer taboo.

"Bringing a plus-one on a work trip is not considered the 'dirty little secret' anymore," Taggart said. "Some employers now actively support this concept, viewing it as a way to balance employee stress with productivity."

However, experts caution that boundaries must be clearly defined to ensure transparency and respect among employees and employers.

"We need clear guidelines for such trips," emphasized Stephan Meier, Chair of the Management Division at Columbia Business School. "Companies should set rules that everyone understands, including post-work team bonding or schedules."

As bleisure becomes more accepted in workplace culture, it is essential for both employees and employers to maintain open communication lines, striking a balance between personal freedom and professional responsibility.

Sources:

• YouGov survey commissioned by Crowne Plaza
• Interview with Ginger Taggart (Vice President of Brand Management at IHG Hotels & Resorts)
• Interview with Stephan Meier (Chair of the Management Division at Columbia Business School)