[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” admin_label=”HEADER: How to Build a Better Travel Policies in 2026″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ background_enable_image=”off” background_position=”top_center” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=”How to Build a Better Travel Policy in 2026″ subhead=”start the year on the front foot” admin_label=”HEADER: How to Build a Better Travel Policies in 2026″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ title_font_size=”60px” subhead_font_size=”3vh” subhead_line_height=”1.3em” background_color=”#414042″ background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Businessman-and-Woman-Walking-Waterfront-scaled.jpg” parallax=”off” title_font_size_tablet=”60px” title_font_size_phone=”60px” title_font_size_last_edited=”on|desktop” z_index_tablet=”500″ global_colors_info=”{}” button_one_text__hover_enabled=”on|desktop”][\/et_pb_fullwidth_header][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”SECTION – Intro” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” custom_padding=”10vh||10vh||true|false” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” admin_label=”ROW – Intro” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100vw” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text content_tablet=”<\/p>\n
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At Gray Dawes Travel, we’re busy preparing for the start of a new year and all of the opportunities and challenges that are symptomatic of a fast-moving (and forever changing) corporate travel environment. It’s also the perfect time for travel bookers and buyers to reassess their own travel policies, asking questions about what worked in 2025, what needs to be changed, and how to keep ahead of the curve.<\/p>\n
It’s vitally important. Next year is guaranteed to arrive with its own list of things to consider, from increased cost pressures, shifting traveler expectations, sustainability goals, and the unavoidable topic of AI and its role in shaping travel beyond the confines of technology.<\/p>\n
In this article, we outline ways in which organizations can future-proof their travel policies for 2026 and beyond.<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_button button_url=”#factors” button_text=”FACTORS THAT WILL SHAPE POLICY in 2026″ admin_label=”BUTTON – Top factors” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”bg-image-column” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/aerial-view-from-airplane-see-landscape-WEB-scaled.jpg” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”SECTION – Understanding what Factors” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”rgba(0,0,0,0.51) 0%|rgba(0,0,0,0.52) 100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”on” background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Black-White-Business-Traveller-Suitcase.jpg” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”10vh||10vh||true|false” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ admin_label=”ROW – Understanding what Factors” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” width=”70%” max_width=”100vw” custom_padding=”|40px|63px|40px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.65)” custom_padding=”2vh|2vw|6vh|2vw|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”TITLE – Understanding what Factors” module_id=”factors” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_3_font_size=”4vh” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Understanding what Factors” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Before rethinking your travel policy for the coming year, it’s essential to understand the key, external factors that might define business travel and beyond in 2026. We’ve picked out our top 3: The AI revolution, economic volatility, and sustainability.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb url=”#AI” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#6D6E71″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”5vh” content_max_width=”100vw” admin_label=”BLURB – AI” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”left” header_text_color=”#000000″ header_font_size=”2vh” body_text_color=”#FFFFFF” body_font_size=”1.86vh” background_enable_color=”off” image_icon_custom_margin=”2vh||||false|false” text_orientation=”left” background_layout=”dark” width=”100%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”0vh|0vw|0vh|0vw|true|true” custom_padding=”1vh|0vw|1vh|0vw|true|true” animation_style=”flip” animation_direction=”bottom” link_option_url=”#AI” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_color__hover=”rgba(91,140,177,0.47)” background_enable_color__hover=”on”]<\/p>\n The AI Revolution<\/strong> – How might the growth of Artificial Intelligence affect the ways in which business travelers get from A to B.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb url=”#economic” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”5vh” content_max_width=”100vw” admin_label=”BLURB – Economic volatility” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”left” header_text_color=”#000000″ header_font_size=”2vh” body_text_color=”#FFFFFF” body_font_size=”1.86vh” background_enable_color=”off” image_icon_custom_margin=”2vh||||false|false” text_orientation=”left” background_layout=”dark” width=”100%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”0vh|0vw|0vh|0vw|true|true” custom_padding=”1vh|0vw|1vh|0vw|true|true” animation_style=”flip” animation_direction=”bottom” link_option_url=”#economic” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_color__hover=”rgba(91,140,177,0.47)” background_enable_color__hover=”on”]<\/p>\n Economic Volatility<\/strong> -Why it’s important to account for continued global cost increases across travel and beyond.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb url=”#sustainable” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#78c162″ icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”5vh” content_max_width=”100vw” admin_label=”BLURB – Sustainability” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”left” header_text_color=”#000000″ header_font_size=”2vh” body_text_color=”#FFFFFF” body_font_size=”1.86vh” background_enable_color=”off” image_icon_custom_margin=”2vh||||false|false” text_orientation=”left” background_layout=”dark” width=”100%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”0vh|0vw|0vh|0vw|true|true” custom_padding=”1vh|0vw|1vh|0vw|true|true” animation_style=”flip” animation_direction=”bottom” link_option_url=”#sustainable” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_color__hover=”rgba(91,140,177,0.47)” background_enable_color__hover=”on”]<\/p>\n Sustainability Considerations<\/strong> – How travel policies should adapt to increased focus on greener travel and wider sustainability initiatives.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”SECTION – The AI Revolution” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”10vh||5vh||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” admin_label=”ROW – The AI Revolution” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100vw” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – The AI Revolution” module_id=”AI” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”1%||1%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – The AI Revolution” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”1.86vh” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”2%||2%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n It’s abundantly clear that AI has long since shrugged off its status as a “future concept” and has arrived as a major player in the here and now. The technology is already transforming how travel is booked, managed, and enhanced. Ignoring artificial intelligence when building your travel policy has the potential to be a costly mistake.<\/p>\n AI-powered tools can predict traveler preferences, suggest optimal itineraries based on historical data, and identify cost-saving opportunities in real time. Virtual assistants can handle routine booking queries, freeing up travel managers to focus on strategic decisions. Remember: this is only what we know for now. The technology is evolving at such a pace that there is no telling how it may be utilized in the future.<\/p>\n Travel policies must establish checks and balances around AI use:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – The AI Revolution” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”1.86vh” ul_font=”||||||||” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”2%||2%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”bg-image-column” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Man-Using-AI-Tools-WEB.jpg” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”SECTION -Navigating Economic Volatility” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#eaeaea” custom_margin=”5vh||0vh||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” admin_label=”ROW – Navigating Economic Volatility” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100vw” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”bg-image-column” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/concierge-processing-payment-at-hotel-front-desk-WEB-scaled.jpg” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – Navigating Economic Volatility” module_id=”economic” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”1%||1%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Navigating Economic Volatility” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”1.86vh” custom_margin=”2%||2%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Travel is not immune to the rising costs across the globe. Airfares, hotel rates, and ground transportation have all seen significant increases, and economic uncertainty will undoubtedly make budgeting more challenging. For 2026 policies, this reality demands a more sophisticated approach to cost management.<\/p>\n Embedding policy guidance into the booking flow itself can help make this process smoother. Rather than expecting travellers to reference a separate policy document, integrate real-time policy information, personalized recommendations, and nudges to cost-effective options directly into their booking tools – just like Gray Dawes Travel’s YourTrip online booking tool.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Navigating Economic Volatility” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”1.86vh” ul_font=”||||||||” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”2%||2%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”http:\/\/gdg.travel\/yourtrip\/” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”DISCOVER YOURTRIP” admin_label=”BUTTON – YourTrip” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”SECTION – Increasing Sustainability Considerations” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”10vh||5vh||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” admin_label=”ROW – Increasing Sustainability Considerations” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100vw” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – Increasing Sustainability Considerations” module_id=”#sustainable” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”1%||1%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Increasing Sustainability Considerations” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”1.86vh” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”2%||2%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Sustainability has moved from being something that’s “nice to have” to a core pillar of any good (and conscientious) business travel program. Governments, trade organizations, and travelers themselves are increasingly demanding action on reducing corporate carbon footprints, and business travel is often the largest controllable source of emissions. The challenge for travel policy builders is making sustainability actionable without creating any headaches:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Increasing Sustainability Considerations” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”1.86vh” ul_font=”||||||||” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”2%||2%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/legacy\/” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”DISCOVER LEGACY” admin_label=”BUTTON – Legacy” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”bg-image-column” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Reduce-Column-Image.jpg” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”SECTION – 6 Methods Travel Policy” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”rgba(0,0,0,0.5) 0%|rgba(0,0,0,0.5) 100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”on” background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Vintage-Colour-Background-WEB.jpg” custom_padding=”90px||90px||false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ admin_label=”ROW – 6 Methods Travel Policy” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100vw” custom_margin=”0px||0px||true|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”5vh|40px|5vh|40px|true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – 6 Methods Travel Policy” module_id=”cbp-authority” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_2_font_size_tablet=”” header_2_font_size_phone=”32px” header_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100vw” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”No.1″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”80px” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”5%||-1.4%||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” header_text_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – Move Away From Rigid Rules” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”0.4%||2%||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Move Away From Rigid Rules” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Don’t rely on inflexible rules: specific airlines, hotel caps, and tightly defined booking windows. While control is important, overly prescriptive policies can frustrate travelers. Instead, try adopting principle-led policies, setting clear guidelines that empower travellers while setting boundaries. For example, outline a rule that prioritizes direct routes where possible to reduce traveler fatigue.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”No.2″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”80px” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”5%||-1.4%||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” header_text_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – Build Around Booking Experience” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”0.4%||2%||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Build Around Booking Experience” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n A policy is only effective if it\u2019s accessible to travelers and easy to follow. Travel bookers and buyers should ensure their policy is embedded directly into the booking workflow, not hidden in a PDF. Key considerations include establishing pre-trip approval rules, flagging in-policy options at the point of sale, and offering real-time messaging, i.e., to explain why a booking might sit outside of approved policy.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”No.3″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”80px” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”5%||-1.4%||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” header_text_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – Balance Cost Control” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”0.4%||2%||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Balance Cost Control” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Cost remains a top priority, but traveler expectations are always changing. Flexibility, comfort, and personal wellbeing now directly impact work productivity and retention. A better 2026 travel policy should define when flexibility (changeable fares, premium seating) is justified, recognize the impact of long-haul travel and time zone changes, and allow reasonable personalization within approved budgets.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100vw” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”No.4″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”80px” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”5%||-1.4%||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” header_text_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – Sustainability Practical” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”0.4%||2%||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Sustainability Practical” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Sustainability is moving from an aspirational goal to concrete expectations. However, rules around greener travel that are vague or unrealistic risk being ignored. Effective policies should encourage lower-emission choices where cost and time differences are reasonable, use data to show the carbon impact of travel decisions, and align sustainability goals with wider business and supplier strategy.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”No.5″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”80px” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”5%||-1.4%||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” header_text_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – Duty of Care” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”0.4%||2%||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Duty of Care” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n With increasing geopolitical uncertainty, climate change implications, and the increased awareness of mental health alongside physical wellbeing, duty of care is a growing priority. A modern travel policy should clearly define approved booking channels to ensure traveler visibility, required traveler information and contact preferences, and who is responsible for what during travel disruptions or emergencies.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”No.6″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”80px” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”5%||-1.4%||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” header_text_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – Continuously Refine the Policy” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”0.4%||2%||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Continuously Refine the Policy” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The best travel policies are not static documents that exist in a void. Travel bookers and buyers should treat policy as a living and breathing framework, informed by comprehensive and in-depth travel data. Key metrics to monitor include out-of-policy booking trends, approval rates and exception reasons, and (if possible) direct traveler feedback and satisfaction scores to inform future trips.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”SECTION – Conclusion” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”10vh||5vh||false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” admin_label=”ROW – Conclusion” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100vw” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”HEADER – Conclusion” module_id=”work-balance” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”1%||1%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”BODY – Conclusion” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”1.86vh” custom_margin=”2%||2%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n For travel bookers and buyers standing at the threshold of 2026, the opportunity to reimagine travel policy not simply as a cost-control center, but as a way of advancing organizational goals, has never been clearer.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n In an environment shaped by rising traveller expectations, sustainability commitments, the growth of AI, and ongoing economic pressure, travel policy can no longer be static and inflexible. Organizations that successfully make the shift to a more fluid policy will see them become more than necessities but genuine differentiators.<\/p>\n Ultimately, the most effective travel programs will prove that traveler empowerment and cost-saving initiatives are not mutually exclusive. Organizations that strike this balance will not only save on cost but also support business growth and reinforce trust between travelers and the organization.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”bg-image-column” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Guiding-Light-IMG.jpg” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Blog Sign-Off (portfolio & back button)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”rgba(201,201,201,0.8)” locked=”off” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.6″ _module_preset=”default” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” saved_tabs=”all” 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global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”rgba(0,0,0,0.5) 0%|rgba(0,0,0,0.5) 100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”on” background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Global-Connectivity-Contact-Module-Background.jpg” custom_padding=”6vh||10vh||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” locked=”off”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,1_2,1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” max_width=”100vw” custom_padding=”||1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,1_4,1_4,1_4″ admin_label=”ROW – CONTACT FORMS” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” transform_scale_tablet=”” transform_scale_phone=”” transform_scale_last_edited=”on|desktop” transform_translate_tablet=”160px|0px” transform_translate_phone=”0px|0px” transform_translate_last_edited=”on|phone” transform_translate_linked_tablet=”off” transform_rotate_tablet=”” transform_rotate_phone=”” transform_rotate_last_edited=”on|desktop” transform_skew_tablet=”” transform_skew_phone=”” transform_skew_last_edited=”on|desktop” 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_builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”\/contact-us\/#get-in-touch” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Let’s Go” button_alignment=”center” admin_label=”BUTTON – CLIENT FORM” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” button_text_size=”1.17vw” custom_margin=”3vh||1vh||false|false” button_text_size_tablet=”20px” button_text_size_phone=”20px” button_text_size_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”PROSPECT” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”rgba(255,255,255,0.82)” custom_padding=”4vh|1vw|4vh|1vw|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”|30px||30px|true|true” custom_padding_phone=”|30px||30px|true|true” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” 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_module_preset=”default” background_color=”rgba(255,255,255,0.82)” custom_padding=”4vh|1vw|4vh|1vw|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”|30px||30px|true|true” custom_padding_phone=”|30px||30px|true|true” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}” background_color__hover=”rgba(255,255,255,0.5)” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_enable_color__hover=”on” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_icon font_icon=”||fa||900″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_icon][et_pb_text admin_label=”Suppliers & Partners” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”\/contact-us\/#get-in-touch” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Let’s Go” button_alignment=”center” admin_label=”BUTTON – SUPPLIER FORM” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” button_text_size=”1.17vw” custom_margin=”3vh||1vh||false|false” button_text_size_tablet=”20px” button_text_size_phone=”20px” button_text_size_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”SUPPLIER” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”rgba(255,255,255,0.82)” custom_padding=”4vh|1vw|4vh|1vw|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”|30px||30px|true|true” custom_padding_phone=”|30px||30px|true|true” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}” background_color__hover=”rgba(255,255,255,0.5)” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_enable_color__hover=”on” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_icon font_icon=”||fa||900″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_icon][et_pb_text admin_label=”Career” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”\/careers” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Let’s Go” button_alignment=”center” admin_label=”BUTTON – Careers” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” button_text_size=”1.17vw” custom_margin=”3vh||1vh||false|false” button_text_size_tablet=”20px” button_text_size_phone=”20px” button_text_size_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” admin_label=”Email Option & Social footer” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#414042″ background_enable_color=”off” background_color_gradient_direction=”148deg” background_image=”https:\/\/www.gdg.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Train-CTA.png” background_enable_image=”off” background_size=”contain” background_position=”top_right” background_blend=”multiply” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”60px||60px||false|false” z_index_tablet=”500″ border_width_right=”0vw” border_color_right=”#e0e0e0″ border_color_left=”rgba(48,48,48,0.5)” border_width_right_tablet=”” border_width_right_phone=”0vw” border_width_right_last_edited=”on|tablet” disabled=”on” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,1_5,1_5,1_5,1_5″ make_equal=”on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_enable_color=”off” background_size=”contain” background_position=”bottom_right” background_blend=”screen” width_tablet=”80%” width_last_edited=”off|desktop” max_width=”1800px” max_width_tablet=”80%” max_width_last_edited=”off|desktop” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||||false|false” z_index_tablet=”500″ make_fullwidth=”on” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ min_height=”40px” custom_margin=”||14px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#414042″ _builder_version=”4.16″ width=”100%” custom_margin=”||25px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_signup mailchimp_list=”Gray Dawes Group|cdb71a096e” first_name_field=”off” last_name_field=”off” button_text=”SUBMIT” use_spam_service=”on” recaptcha_list=”Gray Dawes Travel|Gray Dawes Travel-0″ _builder_version=”4.16″ form_field_background_color=”rgba(109,110,113,0.2)” form_field_text_color=”#414042″ form_field_focus_background_color=”rgba(109,110,113,0.2)” form_field_focus_text_color=”#414042″ header_text_align=”left” header_text_color=”#5b8cb1″ header_font_size=”19px” form_field_font=”|||on|||||” use_background_color=”off” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”18px” button_text_color=”#ffffff” button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”||||||||” button_icon_color=”#5b8cb1″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||||false|false” animation_style=”slide” z_index_tablet=”500″ border_radii_fields=”on|0px|0px|0px|0px” focus_text_color=”#ffffff” global_colors_info=”{}” button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_bg_color__hover=”#414042″ button_bg_enable_color__hover=”on” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_text_color__hover=”#ffffff”][\/et_pb_signup][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ min_height=”40px” custom_margin=”||14px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#414042″ _builder_version=”4.16″ width=”100%” custom_margin=”||25px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_social_media_follow icon_color=”#FFFFFF” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”linkedin” url=”https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/showcase\/gray-dawes-travel\/” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#007bb6″ global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”on”]linkedin[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”twitter” url=”https:\/\/twitter.com\/graydawestravel\/” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”on”]twitter[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”facebook” url=”https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/graydawesgroup\/” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#3b5998″ global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”on”]facebook[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”instagram” url=”https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/graydawesgroup\/” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#ea2c59″ global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”on”]instagram[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][\/et_pb_social_media_follow][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ min_height=”40px” custom_margin=”||14px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#414042″ _builder_version=”4.16″ width=”100%” custom_margin=”||25px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]Careers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Locations<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Leadership Team<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Resources<\/a><\/strong>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ min_height=”40px” custom_margin=”||14px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#414042″ _builder_version=”4.16″ width=”100%” custom_margin=”||25px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Cookies<\/b><\/a><\/p>\nUnderstanding what Factors Might Shape Travel Policies in 2026<\/h3>\n
1. The AI Revolution<\/h2>\n
\n
2. Navigating Economic Volatility<\/h2>\n
\n
3. Increasing Sustainability Considerations<\/h2>\n
\n
6 Methods to Building a Better Travel Policy in 2026<\/h2>\n
1<\/h1>\n
Move Away From Rigid Rules<\/h2>\n
2<\/h1>\n
Build Around Booking Experience<\/h2>\n
3<\/h1>\n
Balance Cost Control with Wellbeing<\/h2>\n
4<\/h1>\n
Make Sustainability Practical<\/h2>\n
5<\/h1>\n
Strengthen Duty of Care<\/h2>\n
6<\/h1>\n
Continuously Refine the Policy<\/h2>\n
Looking Ahead to 2026<\/h2>\n
Related Articles<\/h3>\n
GET IN TOUCH<\/h2>\n
I’m a Client<\/h3>\n
I’m a Prospect<\/h3>\n
I’m a Supplier<\/h3>\n
I’m a Fan<\/h3>\n
SUBSCRIBE<\/strong><\/h4>\n
FOLLOW<\/strong><\/h4>\n
EXPLORE<\/strong><\/h4>\n
LEGAL<\/strong><\/h4>\n