The line between business travel and holiday has never been more blurred. As global tourism navigates geopolitical tensions and shifting traveller sentiments, a surprising trend is filling the gap left by declining international leisure trips: the rise of bleisure travel.

New research from The Business Research Company shows the bleisure travel market—combining business and leisure into single trips—valued at $469.45 billion in 2025, with projections reaching $513.62 billion in 2026. This represents one of the few bright spots in an otherwise challenged tourism sector.

## Why Bleisure Is Winning

Traditionally, business travellers flew in for meetings and flew out—generating little to no tourism revenue beyond airport taxis and hotel rooms. Bleisure changes that equation entirely. When a business trip extends by a day or two, suddenly there’s demand for restaurants, tours, cultural attractions, and weekend getaways.

Cities and tourism boards are taking notice. Rather than targeting international tourists who may be deterred by travel advisories or expensive airfares, destinations are increasingly marketing themselves to domestic business travellers and bleisure visitors—travellers who are already in the area and just need convincing to stay longer.

## The Domestic Travel Resurgence

This bleisure boom fits a broader pattern: domestic travel is experiencing a significant revival. Multiple cultural and economic factors are driving this shift, from airfare cost increases to a desire for familiar destinations where language barriers are minimal.

The United States provides a clear example. While international tourist arrivals have struggled, the country has seen a surge in business travel that more than compensates. American travellers are opting for closer destinations, combining work commitments with recreation rather than abandoning travel altogether.

## Practical Tips for Bleisure Travellers

For those looking to maximise their next business trip, extending a day or two requires minimal additional planning. Research shows the best bleisure destinations offer walkable city centres, reliable public transport, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.

Autumn and early winter tend to offer the best combination of availability and pricing, avoiding peak tourist seasons while maintaining pleasant weather in most destinations. Business travellers headed to conferences or client meetings should consider whether their destination offers appealing options for a short pre or post-trip holiday.

## What This Means for Travel Businesses

Hotels, tour operators, and restaurants are adapting their offerings to capture the bleisure market. Extended check-out options, business amenities in rooms, and curated local experience packages are becoming standard at properties that want to attract this growing segment.

The bleisure trend shows no signs of slowing. As work becomes more location-independent, the opportunity to blend professional commitments with personal exploration will only expand.