Women Face Greater Safety Concerns in Business Travel, Survey Finds

Published on June 19, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

A new survey has raised significant concerns about the safety of women traveling for work, revealing that a substantial number of female business travelers feel unsafe compared to their male counterparts. According to the findings from a survey conducted by World Travel Protection (WTP), 71% of women reported feeling unsafe during business trips. The survey, which polled 2,000 business travelers, highlighted the stark contrast between the experiences of male and female employees while traveling for work.

This growing concern over safety during business travel is a critical issue, particularly as business travel continues to be a key component of global work dynamics. While the debate about the future of business travel remains mixed, with some reports predicting a decline, the need to address safety issues for female travelers is more pressing than ever.

Gender Disparity in Business Travel Safety Concerns

The WTP survey found that more than half of the female participants admitted to feeling uneasy when traveling for work due to safety concerns. Among those, 31% said they would avoid solo outings at night during business trips, while 12% shared they had been involved in dangerous situations such as theft or assault while on work trips. The findings underscore a clear gender disparity, with women facing heightened vulnerability and stress compared to their male colleagues.

Women’s safety concerns are not always acknowledged by employers, leaving many feeling unsupported when traveling for work. This lack of recognition for the unique challenges women face highlights the need for better safety measures and proactive policies from organizations to safeguard their employees, particularly women, while on business trips.

Safety Measures to Address Concerns

The survey also revealed potential solutions to address these concerns. Experts agree that employers must take a more active role in ensuring the safety of their traveling employees. Key recommendations include implementing clear travel policies, offering safety measures, and providing emergency contact details in case something goes wrong. Sharing travel itineraries with employers is another critical step, allowing companies to respond quickly and appropriately if a situation arises.

Employers should also consider arranging private transport, such as chauffeur services, for their employees to avoid the risks associated with using public transportation in unfamiliar locations. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that hotels have 24-hour reception services to guarantee security for travelers. Although many companies already implement these safety protocols, there is still much room for improvement, especially in recognizing and addressing the specific needs of female travelers.

Confidential Forums and Open Dialogue

Another recommendation is to provide female employees with a confidential forum where they can voice concerns and share their experiences. Eve Taylor, a member of the Business Travel Association (BTA) advisory board, advocates for creating spaces where women can openly discuss their challenges and suggest improvements in business travel policies.

“Having a platform where women can discuss their concerns is crucial for making informed decisions about their safety,” Taylor said. She emphasizes that companies must listen to their employees’ needs to build a safer and more supportive travel environment.

Underutilized Resources: Travel Assistance Apps

Although companies offer resources such as travel assistance apps, these tools are underutilized by many employees. The WTP survey found that 70% of business travelers reported that their company encourages them to download a travel assistance app, but only 30% actually use it. This points to a disconnect between the availability of resources and the willingness of employees to engage with them.

In addition to apps, the survey by Booking.com for Business revealed a notable difference in safety measures between domestic and international business trips. Only 26% of employees take extra precautions during domestic travel, compared to 42% who are more cautious when traveling internationally. This discrepancy highlights a potential gap in safety awareness, particularly when traveling within one’s own country.

The Impact of Routine Changes on Traveler Health

Beyond physical safety concerns, business travelers also face the impact of changes in routine, which can affect both their mental and physical health. According to Booking.com for Business, 22% of business travelers feel more susceptible to illness during work trips. Factors such as disrupted sleep, changes in diet, and lack of exercise contribute to the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle while traveling.

Young professionals, especially those aged 18-35, tend to report a more positive view of business travel’s impact on their mental health, with 63% indicating travel improves their well-being. In contrast, 55% of those aged 36-45 feel similarly, reflecting a generational shift in attitudes toward work travel.

U.S. Department of State Guidelines for Female Travelers

The U.S. Department of State provides valuable resources and guidelines to help travelers, particularly women, stay safe. Among their recommended practices is the importance of sharing travel plans with others, including contact information and emergency procedures. The Department also advises carrying personal safety alarms or whistles, using body language to ward off unwanted attention, and knowing the locations of nearby emergency services such as police stations and hospitals.

These guidelines mirror the strategies suggested by experts in the business travel industry and serve as an important tool in enhancing safety for all travelers, particularly women. By adhering to these recommendations and staying vigilant, female business travelers can reduce their risk and feel more secure on their trips.

Conclusion: Moving Toward Safer Business Travel

As business travel continues to evolve, the need for safety protocols that specifically address the unique challenges faced by women is becoming increasingly evident. Employers have a responsibility to ensure the well-being of all employees, particularly women, by implementing stronger safety measures, offering accessible resources, and fostering a culture of open dialogue.

The data from WTP and Booking.com for Business is clear: while business travel presents inherent risks, organizations must take proactive steps to make travel as safe and comfortable as possible for their employees. By focusing on both physical safety and overall well-being, companies can create a more supportive environment for all travelers.

Sources:

• World Travel Protection (WTP)
• U.S. Department of State – Travel Safety Guidelines
• Booking.com for Business