In a world where disruption has become the norm, business travel comes with growing risks that extend beyond delays and lost baggage. From geopolitical unrest to health emergencies and extreme weather, risks are increasing, and businesses cannot afford to leave their people vulnerable. Today’s global landscape demands that companies take travel risk management seriously because ensuring employee safety is part of a responsible business strategy.
Experts estimate the travel risk management service market will grow at a CAGR of 6.9%, from USD 3.82 billion in 2025 to USD 6.96 billion by 2034, reflecting how organisations are prioritising corporate responsibility and operational resilience. Understanding this landscape is essential for meeting legal obligations, protecting your workforce, and keeping operations running smoothly.
Understanding travel risk management
Travel risk management refers to the strategies and systems companies use to keep their employees safe while travelling for work. It is a structured approach that identifies threats, prepares employees, and responds quickly when issues arise. Modern corporate travel risk management goes far beyond basic travel insurance or itinerary tracking. It demands a proactive approach that leverages data, policy, and technology.
Key components of travel risk management include:
- Health-related risks (pandemics, local outbreaks)
- Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods)
- Geopolitical instability (political unrest, war)
- Security threats (terrorism, crime, cyber risks)
This framework gives organisations the tools to protect their people while demonstrating a strong commitment to employee travel safety.
Importance of corporate travel risk management
Investing in corporate travel risk management is not just about an employer’s duty of care. It also delivers tangible value across multiple areas of business operations.
Recognising travel threats
As concerns surrounding global volatility, extreme weather, and public health concerns continue to grow, companies must anticipate disruptions that could derail travel plans or endanger employees. Identifying these risks in advance helps minimise exposure and keeps travel running smoothly.
Prioritising employee safety and morale
When businesses invest in employee travel safety, they show that people come first. This improves morale, builds trust, and supports retention, especially among frequent travellers who value workplace support and protection.
Minimising avoidable costs
Reactive crisis handling is often expensive. On the other hand, proactive planning – such as pre-travel briefings and real-time alerts – helps avoid medical bills, delays, and emergency evacuations. Effective travel risk management ultimately saves money.
Protecting brand and business reputation
Incidents involving employee safety can damage public trust. A strong corporate travel risk management strategy ensures the organisation is prepared to act decisively and responsibly, reducing reputational fallout.
Ensuring legal compliance
Duty of care laws can vary globally, but companies must comply with them to avoid liability. A well-crafted travel risk management policy helps meet international standards and protect against legal consequences.
Supporting business continuity
Unexpected events should not halt operations. Risk-aware travel policies help leaders make informed decisions, redirect resources, and maintain productivity, even in turbulent times.
Travel risk management best practices
An effective travel risk programme follows a continuous process involving four key phases, which are: proactivity, prevention, preparation, and reaction. Businesses can strengthen their travel risk management approach by focusing on best practices across each phase.[1][2][3]
Build a risk-aware travel policy
Start with clear, actionable policies that address potential threats. A strong business travel policy should guide behaviour, define responsibilities, and align with international risk standards.
Develop a crisis management plan
Prepare for the unexpected. A crisis plan ensures teams know what to do, who to contact, and how to respond during emergencies. This includes evacuation protocols and access to medical or legal help abroad.
Educate and prepare travellers
Pre-trip briefings, training, and destination-specific updates equip travellers to manage their safety. Informed employees are more confident, aware, and capable of avoiding danger.
Use real-time monitoring tools
Technology enables companies to monitor global events and appropriately assist travellers. Real-time alerts, location tracking, and incident reporting tools form the backbone of modern employee travel safety.
Conduct post-travel reviews
After trips, debrief employees to capture lessons and refine processes. This feedback loop strengthens future planning and demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement.
Leverage travel technology platforms
Modern tools help automate everything from risk assessment to emergency response. Investing in the right tech streamlines operations and supports scalable corporate travel risk management strategies.
Role of travel risk management solutions
Specialist travel process outsourcing and risk management providers offer invaluable support to organisations navigating a complex travel landscape. Their services include:
- Expert guidance on global travel risks
- Advanced platforms with AI-driven data analysis
- Real-time alerts and security updates
- Rapid emergency response coordination
Infosys BPM helps businesses embed travel risk management into their wider operations through expert-led travel process outsourcing solutions. This includes tools and advisory support tailored to each organisation’s unique risk profile and business goals.
Travel today is filled with uncertainty, but that does not mean businesses cannot plan. A strong travel risk management strategy protects your people, ensures business continuity, and supports compliance. By investing in proactive planning and next-gen technology, organisations can keep their teams safe, productive, and confident wherever work takes them.
