Business travel costs continued to climb in the first half of this year, driven in part by rising fuel prices and broader transportation pressures. However, according to SAP Concur data, companies around the world largely maintained their travel activity despite the higher prices.
The data suggests that while organizations are becoming more thoughtful about trip economics, most are still prioritizing in-person meetings and employee travel.
Travel costs rose across most categories
According to SAP Concur global data from January 1–May 31, 2026, overall business travel costs increased across nearly every major category year over year. Airfare rose more than 8%, hotel rates increased nearly 6%, and car rental costs climbed roughly 5%.
At the same time, the average cost of fuel-related expenses surged. The average transaction in Concur Expense in the gas category increased approximately 22% globally, rising from $50 in February to $61 in April with similar spikes seen in countries around the world.
