Safety First: UK Business Travelers Demand Better Protection on Work Trips

Published on July 3, 2025

A recent survey by Opinium on behalf of World Travel Protection (WTP) identified that there is a pressing issue amongst UK business travelers regarding their wellbeing and safety while out on work travel. With 69% of the respondents stating that they would refuse a business travel if they felt that their safety wasn’t a focus area, the findings only serve to highlight the growing necessity for travel safety measures amongst companies.

Rising Expectations for Employer Support

According to the survey, 60% of UK-based business travelers believe that their employers could be doing more to ensure their safety while traveling. This sentiment is especially prevalent among younger employees, with 63% of respondents under 34 years old expressing concern that their safety needs were being overlooked. In contrast, just 31% of employees aged 55 and over shared the same concerns.

The survey of 500 UK business travelers found a clear trend: younger workers, who are often more active in global business environments, are more likely to demand greater protection. Employers, it seems, are falling short in addressing these concerns, with many employees feeling that their companies aren’t doing enough to safeguard them during work trips.

The Risk of Losing Talent Over Travel Safety Concerns

The survey also uncovered a concerning statistic — 69% of business travelers would turn down a work trip if they did not feel that their safety and wellbeing were being properly prioritized. Furthermore, 60% stated they would consider leaving their job if they felt their employer wasn’t taking their travel safety seriously.

This data suggests that the stakes are high for businesses when it comes to providing adequate support for employees traveling internationally. As companies become more global and interconnected, the potential for talent loss due to inadequate travel safety measures becomes a real concern. Employers who fail to invest in comprehensive travel risk management programs could face difficulties in retaining their best employees, particularly younger, more security-conscious workers.

Current Safety Measures: What’s Being Done

The survey also highlighted the types of safety measures currently being implemented by employers. Around 30% of business travelers reported having access to a 24/7 emergency helpline, while 25% received pre-travel briefings. Additionally, 24% were informed of government-issued advisories, and 23% had access to a travel risk management provider. About 21% of respondents indicated that they had travel risk apps with live alerts and support access, offering a degree of proactive safety.

However, despite these efforts, there is still a significant demand for more frequent engagement and support. The survey found that 64% of business travelers would like more frequent check-ins from their employers, with younger workers (73% of those under 34) expressing a stronger desire for this type of proactive communication. This data suggests that employees want a higher level of support from their employers before, during, and after their business trips.

The Role of Travel Risk Management and Pre-Trip Preparation

The survey results point out that employees are looking for more proactive safety measures. Business travelers, particularly those visiting higher-risk destinations, want reassurance that their companies are actively working to reduce the risks they face. Employers who fail to offer comprehensive support, such as detailed pre-trip briefings and 24/7 assistance, are likely to see their employees’ confidence in corporate travel diminish.

LGBTQ+ Safety: A Growing Concern for Employers

One area where many UK employers are falling short is providing safety guidance for LGBTQ+ employees traveling abroad. Despite the growing risks faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in certain countries, a significant number of employers have not addressed the specific needs of LGBTQ+ travelers. This oversight has sparked concern among LGBTQ+ employees, who are increasingly seeking companies that prioritize inclusivity and safety for all workers.

With some countries having laws and policies that may put LGBTQ+ travelers at risk, employers must ensure they provide the appropriate resources and guidance to help these employees navigate the challenges of international business travel. Offering tailored safety briefings, awareness programs, and legal support is crucial for ensuring that all employees, regardless of their sexual orientation, feel safe and protected during work trips.

The Need for Improved Safety Protocols in Corporate Travel

The findings from the Opinium survey underscore the importance of enhancing travel safety protocols within the corporate world. As business travel continues to expand globally, employers must recognize that employee wellbeing is paramount. The safety of workers on the road is no longer a matter of good practice; it is a fundamental part of employee retention and overall business success.

With 69% of respondents stating they would turn down a business trip if their safety was not prioritized, employers must rethink how they approach corporate travel. Offering more than just basic insurance or emergency services will be crucial. Proactive safety measures, regular check-ins, and comprehensive support systems are becoming essential elements for businesses looking to protect their workers and attract top talent.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Employee Safety in Business Travel

The results of the Opinium survey serve as a wake-up call for businesses to reconsider their approach to employee travel safety. With the growing demand for more support and proactive safety measures, companies that fail to invest in comprehensive travel risk management programs may struggle to maintain employee satisfaction and retention.

Not only is travel safety legally and morally significant but also a vital consideration for the overall wellbeing of employees at large, especially the young ones who are paying increased attention to a feeling of security. Through the provision of specialized travel safeguards, companies can protect their employees while simultaneously making their company a place of preference within the larger world economy.