According to the CWT Connected Traveler Study, half of business travelers from the Americas contact their families when on business trips, more than those from other regions. Only one-third (31%) of travelers from Asia Pacific (APAC) and around a quarter (27%) of Europeans touch base with their families while on the road.
The survey of more than 1,900 business travelers revealed that travelers from the Americas are also more likely to check-in more than once a day (47%), whether by phone, text, email, or other methods, compared with travelers from Europe (37%) and APAC (32%).
“Obviously business travelers miss family life when they are away, but most travelers make sure they stay in touch,” said Julian Walker, head of external communications at Carlson Wagonlit Travel.
While there were similarities across the Americas, Europe and APAC, the study exposed key differences in the ways and frequency with which business travelers connect with family. For example, European travelers (49%) are more likely to use a phone to communicate with family and friends while traveling compared with 43% of those from the Americas and 41% from APAC.
Conversely, travelers from the Americas (20%) are more likely to text family and friends than those from APAC (17%) or Europe (13%). Regardless of location, CWT’s research revealed that around a quarter of travelers from each region Skype their families.
“While technology continues to evolve, most travelers still favor traditional ways to connect with family and friends,” said Walker. “Digital tools, like video calls, are making it easier for travelers to feel more connected with their family when they’re away.”
