According to a report from Conservation International and the We Mean Business Coalition, nearly 92% of business leaders say reducing carbon emissions is an “urgent” priority for their organization, while 89% view carbon credits (purchased for carbon offsetting) as a valuable tool to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

But not all carbon offset programs and providers are the same. A survey of senior sustainability officers commissioned by AiDash found that 43% of chief sustainability officers (CSOs) seek assurance from ratings agencies to validate the carbon offsets they use, while 41% report having trust issues with carbon offsets.

So how can you find the right carbon offsetting programs to meet your sustainability goals?

Read on to learn more about how these programs work, and what to look for when choosing one for your business.

What are carbon offset programs?

Carbon offset programs are designed to help businesses combat climate change by mitigating the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG emissions) they produce.

Companies can reduce their carbon footprint by cutting their own emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and making more eco-friendly choices, but there will still be some residual emissions left after doing this. Carbon offsets are a way of compensating for these residual emissions, making the business carbon neutral.

Businesses buy carbon offsets at a fixed price to make up for each metric ton (tonne) of CO2 they emit. These offset credits contribute to an activity for carbon reduction in the atmosphere—for example, an environmental project run by a non-profit organization. In this way, the company can reach “net zero” emissions.

What to look for in a reliable carbon offset program

There are many different carbon offsetting programs out there. Some popular types of climate solution initiatives include:

• Forestry (reforestation, tree planting, and preventing deforestation)
• Methane capture
• Renewable energy projects, such as wind farms or hydroelectric power plants
• Direct carbon capture
  

It is very important to choose reliable programs with third-party verification, so that emissions can be properly offset. Contributing to unreliable programs means offsets will not be effective, and may lead to accusations of “greenwashing.”

Effective carbon offset programs should:

• Make a tangible, measurable environmental impact on CO2 emissions that is accurately-measured and permanent
• Be properly supervised and efficiently run
• Benefit local communities
• Be VERRA (Verified Carbon Standard/VCS) approved
  

6 of the best carbon offset programs for companies

1. GreenPerk

If your company sends people on business trips frequently, perhaps you’re looking for a carbon offset program for business travel.

TravelPerk is an all-in-one business travel tool and platform for travel booking, management, and reporting. As part of the platform, TravelPerk offers GreenPerk, an industry-leading carbon offset solution.

GreenPerk allows you to offset 100% of the CO2 emissions from your business trips for just 1% of the total travel cost. The software automatically calculates your carbon footprint using TravelPerk’s in-house tool, GreenPerk API. These calculations comply with the standard set by the World Resource Institute: GHG Protocol for Corporate Accounting. You’ll then be charged a fixed price of €10 per ton of CO2.

These funds will be collected in a pool and invested in VERRA-certified projects. All GreenPerk projects are hand-selected by experts and meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals. They offer guaranteed valid, third-party verified emissions reductions that are permanent, and also have additional benefits for local communities and the environment.

Some examples of specific projects from GreenPerk include:

• Biogas capture in Thailand
• Forestry in Cambodia and Indonesia
• Hydroelectric power in Turkey
• Wind power in China

2. TerraPass

TerraPass offers carbon offsetting solutions for individuals, businesses, and events. With TerraPass, companies can support CO2 reduction projects on a monthly subscription basis.

The TerraPass website offers carbon footprint calculators to help you understand the footprint of an event, or of your business and daily life activity, as well as the cost of carbon offsetting.

All of TerraPass’ carbon offsets are certified by industry-leading third-party verifiers, including VERRA, the Gold Standard, the American Carbon Registry, or the Climate Action Reserve. And TerraPass completes Green-e Climate Certification, the industry’s highest level of third-party assurance, each year.

TerraPass funds projects around the world that destroy greenhouse gasses and produce renewable energy. These include land gas capture, clean energy from wind power, farm power, and other initiatives. Some examples of TerraPass projects include:

• Landfill gas combustion in Virginia
• Forest management in Kentucky
• Preservation of rainforests in Papua New Guinea

3. NativeEnergy

NativeEnergy is an established carbon offset program that has been around since 2000. Its quality, transparency, and rigorous standards make it a leader among carbon offset programs. It is a Public Benefit Corporation and Certified B Corp.

The program has carbon offset calculators for both businesses and individuals. These include travel, events, household, and freight calculators. They allow people to measure their carbon footprint and calculate the cost of investing in carbon offsets.

With NativeEnergy, users can buy offsets as a one-time purchase or as a monthly, quarterly, or annual offset. All projects are validated and verified by third-party organizations such as the Gold Standard, the Verified Carbon Standard, the Climate, Community & Biodiversity Standards, the American Carbon Registry, VERRA, or Plan Vivo.

Most projects cover reforestation and emissions reduction. They aim to positively impact communities and ecosystems while reducing or removing CO2. NativeEnergy offers clean water, nature-based, on-farm, and renewable energy projects, among others.

Some example projects include:

• Regenerative farming in the Canadian Prairies
• Improving agriculture and livelihoods in Uganda
• Brazilian pastureland regeneration
• Protecting the Northern Kenya Rangelands

4. Sustainable Travel International

Sustainable Travel International is dedicated to protecting the world’s most vulnerable travel destinations. They are focused on safeguarding nature, combating climate change, helping empower communities, and tackling waste and pollution. To do this, they take a collaborative approach involving local communities, destination managers, local governments, tourism businesses, and travelers.

The organization offers a carbon footprint calculator that generates the total carbon footprint of a flight and shows how much it will cost to offset that footprint.

Sustainable Travel International’s projects include clean and efficient energy, blue carbon, biodiversity initiatives, and forest conservation. These projects are verified by the Gold Standard, VERRA, and the Climate Action Reserve, among others. Some examples include:

• Hydro power plants in Indonesia
• Rainforest conservation in Brazil
• Farm biogas projects in Thailand
• Wind farms in the USA

5. Carbon Checkout

This software app can integrate into e-commerce stores, allowing customers to invest in carbon offsets while they shop. It’s one of the world’s leading carbon offset retail distribution networks.

Using the app is easy: once it’s been integrated, customers can balance the carbon footprint of their orders in just one click, and then track their carbon offset contributions on the Carbon Checkout website.

Carbon Checkout contributions are pooled to fund renewable energy projects. These projects include wind and solar energy projects, as well as landfill gas capture initiatives. They are third-party verified by the Clean Development Mechanism, VERRA, the Gold Standard, and more. Some examples include:

• Wind power in Mexico, Bulgaria, Argentina, and South Dakota
• Landfill gas capture in Virginia, South Carolina, and Turkey

6. myclimate

Myclimate offers a wide variety of third-party certified carbon offset projects, and helps create jobs and improve living conditions in communities around the world. It offers education programs, carbon footprint calculators, and full transparency.

Myclimate’s educational programs have reached over 65,000 schoolchildren and 11,000 trainees in Switzerland, plus 1400 students and young professionals in its global network. Its climate offset programs serve NGOs, companies, and private individuals. They adhere to standards like Plan Vivo and the Gold Standard. Some examples include:

• Water preparation in Uganda
• Biogas plants in India
• Solar cookers in Bolivia

Choose the right carbon offset program for your business

With so many great carbon offset programs to choose from, you should have no problem finding one that works for you. When selecting a program, be sure to consider its cost, reliability, effectiveness, and suitability for your needs.

The right program should provide offsets for the specific purpose you would like (such as business travel), and it should also offer access to certified projects that are transparent and reliable.

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A well-executed incentive trip sets the stage for increased productivity, loyalty, and employee engagement -- and dedicated travel incentive companies can help you create the ultimate travel experiences that achieve these outcomes.

Whether you're looking for customized sales incentive programs, destination expertise, or comprehensive event management services, this guide will help you find the right partner to create memorable experiences for your top performers.

What is an incentive travel company?

An incentive travel company or incentive travel agency specializes in designing and managing tailored experiences for organizations. They create comprehensive and customized trip itineraries that align with your company’s goals and preferences – taking care of everything including travel, accommodation, and activity arrangements. 

As well as managing trip logistics, incentive travel companies also negotiate contracts and deals, use their industry knowledge and connections to maximize the impact of incentive trips, and create unique, bespoke experiences that go beyond traditional vacations. 

Benefits of using a travel incentive company

To create unforgettable and impactful trips that align with your organizational goals, travel incentive companies can add an extra special touch.

Utilizing established supplier networks

With their established partnerships and relationships with various suppliers, including hotels, resorts, transportation providers, restaurants, and tour and activity companies, incentive travel companies can access favorable rates, book exclusive experiences, and deal with contract negotiations on your behalf.

Expert destination knowledge

Feeling torn between choosing a weekend in New York or a week at a Spanish resort? Incentive travel companies are masters at selecting the right destinations, accommodation options, and activities according to your needs, budget, and trip objectives. 

Managing on-site logistics

Handling on-site logistics is an important factor, and incentive travel companies have this covered. They coordinate everything from detailed itineraries, managing transportation, and overseeing suppliers, to providing on-site support and preparing contingency plans. They’ll even take care of the small details like event décor, gaining VIP access to desirable locations, and planning group activities and private events. 

Cost optimization 

Their established relationships and networks help them negotiate lower rates and, on some occasions complimentary upgrades. Better still, incentive travel companies can also suggest alternative dates and/or destinations that could help you save a significant amount of money while still providing a once in a lifetime experience that your employees deserve. 

Risk management and mitigation

Incentive travel companies develop risk management strategies and contingency plans to account for  any unforeseen events, safety considerations, and logistical issues that may arise. 

Measuring and evaluating the trip’s success

Incentive travel companies will help you evaluate the success and return on investment (ROI) of your trips and incentive programs. They provide tools and resources that measure results and attendee satisfaction against your trip objectives.  

Top 7 incentive travel companies 

1. TravelPerk

TravelPerk is a full-service travel management company with an all-in-one, cutting-edge digital platform for all your corporate travel needs. For travel managers in charge of managing employee incentive trips, TravelPerk’s platform enables you to handle and control all aspects of the trip in-house, saving you time and money.

Handling every detail of your trip planning from sourcing the perfect destinations to securing hotel and flight reservations, managing smooth check-ins, arranging reliable ground transportation, and even taking care of prepaid restaurant bookings, TravelPerk ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish. 

The company also offers access to the a huge travel inventory for flights and accommodation, as well as the most comprehensive range of corporate travel features in the industry. 

Their dedicated group booking service for trips of 9 people or more removes the stress of juggling multiple travelers' arrangements by providing: 

• The combined buying power of their clients to negotiate the best rates on travel and accommodation, guaranteeing exclusive rates that you won't find anywhere else. 
• A concierge team to suggest once-in-a-lifetime activities and book pre-paid restaurants for your stay.
• Access to a 24-hour customer service line for all attendees, where a team of real people is on hand to answer any questions. 
• VAT recovery reports can help you save up to 20% on incentive trip costs.  
• Improved compliance with travel policies baked into the platform.
• The ability to pay, report, and invoice all company travel with just one account. 

2. ITA Group

ITA Group is a global engagement agency that specializes in creating and managing impactful employee engagement and incentive travel programs. The company designs and executes personalized, authentic experiences that recognize and reward employees. 

ITA Group’s services include: 

• Expertise in destination management. 
• Immersive brand experiences. 
• Concierge air travel. 
• Risk management and traveler safety services.
• Pre- and post-analytics for insights into the trip’s success. 

3. Maritz Global Events

Maritz Global Events describes itself as an experience design company that creates travel incentive experiences and unforgettable experiences to motivate salespeople and top performers. 

As well as delivering comprehensive incentive travel programs, the company is committed to waste reduction strategies, carbon footprint mitigation, and socially responsible practices. 

Maritz Global Events’ incentive travel services include:

• Travel program design and campaign communications.
• Sourcing and contracting hotels and venues.
• Simplified registration and ticketing.
• On-site support and coordination.

4. Creative Group

Creative Group is a corporate meeting, incentive, and recognition company that offers end-to-end services, including program design, logistics management, and attendee engagement. The company’s focus is on creating immersive, customized, and memorable experiences that inspire and motivate attendees.

Creative Group offers the following benefits: 

• Customized group incentive travel programs tailored to a business’s specific goals, preferences, and budgets.
• Relationships with hotels, independent properties, destination management companies, airlines, and transportation companies. 
• Mobile apps, interactive platforms, and digital tools provide attendees with real-time information, engagement opportunities, and personalized communication.

5. BI Worldwide

BI WORLDWIDE is a global engagement agency that designs and delivers solutions to engage employees. The company creates, manages, and measures exceptional group travel incentive programs from start to finish, and provides sales incentives and employee recognition solutions.

The company provides the following services: 

• An event management app that engages attendees before, during, and after trips. 
• Destination selection and management.
• Planning unique excursions, team-building exercises, and exclusive events.
• On-site event management services.
• Data analytics and reporting tools to measure the performance and impact of group incentive travel programs.

6. Cadence Travel

Cadence Travel is a travel management company that designs incentive travel trips for businesses. The company can provide support to internal teams in charge of travel management or an outsourced, turnkey incentive management program for your business. 

As part of their offering, Caden Travel provides the following services: 

• Customized incentive travel programs according to requirements and preferences.
• A dedicated trip planner that acts as a single point of contact for all trip-related operations. 
• Hotel sourcing, negotiating, and contracting specialists. 
• On-site staffing for logistical support.
• Attendee travel monitoring to ensure duty of care.

7. Brightspot 

Brightspot is an incentive travel company that specializes in designing and managing incentive programs and trips. Their experts are CMPs (Certified Meeting Professionals) that have deep knowledge of the travel industry and extensive experience in designing corporate events and meetings. 

As an incentives and events agency, Brightspot offers the following services:

• Customized sales incentive programs to help drive performance improvement and sales engagement. 
• Incentive trip planning.
• Integrated engagement campaigns.
• Incentive software platform to help companies manage their incentive travel programs. 

Wrapping up 

No matter what type of incentive trip you’re planning, the ultimate goal is to provide employees with a rewarding experience. 

Even if you’re well-versed in booking business travel arrangements, getting all of the nitty-gritty details right for an incentive trip can be overwhelming. After all, attendees are expecting memorable experiences, not a corporate business trip. 

When you partner with TravelPerk, you can rely on our teams to craft personalized, impactful, and unforgettable incentive travel trips that leave a lasting impression and drive the desired goals for your organization. Our dedication to excellence and intuitive digital platform ensure that your incentive trips are managed seamlessly from start to finish. 

To discover how your incentive travel program can benefit from TravelPerk’s comprehensive and innovative travel management platform, request a demo today.

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As a travel manager, you know that incentive trips are not just vacations, but incredible rewards for hard-working team members that fuel employee satisfaction, loyalty, and performance. But how do you choose between bustling cities, seaside getaways with pristine beaches and captivating blue waters, and serene retreats? 

From sun-kissed sand beaches and majestic mountains to enchanting islands and breathtaking national parks, we take a look at a range of the best incentive trip locations, highlight the best activities in each location, and the best time to visit to help you plan your company’s next getaway. 

15 of the best incentive trip locations

1. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a unique Greek island renowned for its whitewashed buildings, iconic blue-domed churches, and unforgettable sunsets -- plus, Santorini is the only inhabited caldera in the world. 

The island’s rich history, fascinating architecture, and breathtaking views make Santorini the perfect setting for an incentive trip that promises unforgettable experiences. 

Activities: Explore picturesque villages like Oia and Fira, savor local wines in vineyards and wineries, relax on volcanic beaches, and witness unforgettable sunsets. 

Best time of year to visit: April to October for warm weather and less crowded streets.

2. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is a scenic Italian region known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful coastal towns, and Mediterranean charm. From the famous Amalfi lemons to some of the freshest seafood available in the world, this region is a huge hit amongst food enthusiasts. 

Offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, gourmet cuisine, and serene beaches, The Amalfi Coast is a great backdrop for any incentive trip. 

Activities: Visit the charming towns of Positano and Ravello, enjoy authentic Italian dishes, explore historic sites like Pompeii, hike along coastal paths and mountain trails, and take boat tours to nearby islands.

Best time of year to visit: May to September for warm weather. 

3. Big Sky Resort, Montana, USA 

Nestled in the Greater Yellowstone Region, Big Sky Resort delivers a treasure trove of different mountain experiences. Far from just a ski resort, Big Sky offers a variety of activities and several different accommodation choices to suit everyone. 

Plus, with over 30 nonstop flights connecting more than 25 destinations, Big Sky is the most connected mountain resort in the USA. 

Activities: Zipline tours, guided hikes, nordic skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and scenic lift rides. Plus, enjoy the resort’s complimentary pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

Best time of year to visit: The winter season is a popular time for skiers, while summer and spring are best for hiking and outdoor activities. 

4. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is steeped in history, offering a mix of old-world charm and a bustling cultural scene. The city is perfect for history buffs and those interested in Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo architecture. 

The historic center of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage site that will transport visitors back in time with its cobblestone streets and incredible buildings. Throughout the historic center are several landmarks including the Municipal House, the Grand Powder Tower, and the Jewish Quarter. 

Activities: Explore Prague Castle and the historic Old Town Square, walk across Charles Bridge, visit the astronomical clock, and enjoy traditional Czech cuisine.

Best time of year to visit: May to September for warmer weather. 

5. Four Seasons Resort and Hotel, Mexico City

The Four Seasons Hotel in Mexico City offers a high-end, luxury resort in a bustling metropolis. Set in hacienda-style property with a fountain courtyard, the Four Seasons Hotel is also home to serene gardens, a fire pit area, and singing birds.

Service is tailored to each guest for a highly-personalized experience, guests are provided with world-class dining options, and guests can take advantage of a tequila and mezcal bar and a health club. 

The five-star luxury hotel is also located close to Chapultepec Park, and there are plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and designer boutiques within a five-minute distance.

Activities: The hotel can arrange balloon rides over the Teotihuacan pyramids, organize forest picnics, plan excursions to Oaxaca, and arrange private art and architecture tours. 

Best time of year to visit:  October to April for milder weather. 

6. Malta

Malta, a small archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its rich history, stunning coastline, and natural beauty. 

With a variety of fascinating historical sites, charming villages, and vibrant cultural festivals including the Valletta Carnival and the Malta International Arts Festival, employees will be able to immerse themselves in the local traditions, music, and performances.

Activities: Explore the UNESCO-listed capital city of Valletta, ancient temples like Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, and the fortified city of Mdina. For those who want to up the ante, Malta offers great hiking routes, diving experiences, and natural wonders like the Blue Grotto and Dingli Cliffs.

Best time of year to visit: The best time to visit Malta is during the spring and autumn seasons.

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

The largest city in Iceland, Reykjavik is also the gateway to Iceland's breathtaking natural wonders. The city’s unique geology and untouched beauty make it one of the top incentive travel destinations in Europe.

It’s a perfect destination for employees who will delight in outdoor and adventure activities and enjoy the city’s vibrant culture. 

Activities: Explore waterfalls, visit geothermal hot springs, take in the dramatic landscapes, explore ice caves, witness the Northern Lights, and bathe in the famous Blue Lagoon. 

Best time of year to visit: The summer months from June to August provide longer daylight hours and milder temperatures for outdoor activities.

8. Vancouver, Canada

Sat between mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. 

The city offers a range of outdoor activities, a thriving culinary scene, beautiful beaches, glacial lakes, and lush forests for a well-rounded incentive trip experience.

Activities: Explore Stanley Park, visit the vibrant Granville Island Public Market, and take in breathtaking views from Grouse Mountain. Take part in outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Best time of year to visit: Vancouver's generally mild climate throughout the year makes it an attractive destination for incentive trips all year round. 

9. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is famous for its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. With its stunning beaches, warm hospitality, and a plethora of water activities

The island's pristine beaches create an idyllic setting for an incentive trip, but visitors can also indulge their adventurous sides with visits to the island’s many temples and elephant sanctuaries, and enjoy the lively nightlife scene.

Activities: Explore the streets of Patong, relax on the powdery sands of Kata Beach, and relax on Phang Nga Bay. For water-based activities, visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and island-hopping to the Phi Phi Islands. 

Best time of year to visit: The dry season from November to April is the ideal time to visit Phuket. 

10. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

The glitz and glamour of Las Vegas is a huge draw for visitors and makes the city a top incentive trip destination. Also known as the entertainment capital of the world with its countless casinos, extravagant shows, and vibrant nightlife, Las Vegas offers an experience unlike any other. 

For those who don’t want to try their luck in the casinos, the location is great for a day trip to the Grand Canyon, kayaking on the Black Canyon, and visiting the Valley of Fire National Park. 

Activities: Visit world-class casinos like Caesars Palace, indulge in shopping malls and fine dining restaurants, and try out attractions like the High Roller observation wheel.

Best time of year to visit: Las Vegas can be visited year-round, but spring and fall offer milder temperatures. 

11. Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is a resort town with stunning landscapes, glacier-fed rivers, and ancient forests. As well as adventurous activities like ziplines, jetboating, and skydives, visitors can also enjoy the clear mountain air, visit nearby fjords, or unwind at the numerous luxurious spas and wellness retreats. 

Activities: Experience bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating, or take a cruise on Lake Wakatipu. The town has a vibrant dining and entertainment scene, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. 

Best time of year to visit: The best time to visit Queenstown is during the summer months from December to February for milder temperatures. 

12. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is a tropical paradise in the heart of the Caribbean. Luxurious, all-inclusive beach resorts are dotted around the town surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere. 

As one of the best Caribbean destinations, Punta Cana offers relaxation, adventure, and luxury all in one place.

Activities: Relax on Bavaro Beach, go snorkeling or scuba diving in the coral reefs, or enjoy luxury spa treatments. Visitors can also visit championship golf courses, go on catamaran cruises, and zip line adventures. 

Best time of year to visit: The dry season from December to April is the most popular time to visit.

13. Yosemite National Park, California, USA

Yosemite National Park is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes and natural wonders. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite offers granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoia groves. 

Explore the iconic sights of El Capitan and Half Dome, hike along picturesque trails, and take in the beauty of Yosemite Valley. 

Activities: Visitors can indulge in wildlife spotting, camping, rock climbing, and stargazing. Yosemite’s rivers and lakes are also perfect for swimming, fishing, and rafting, while white water rafting is available on the Merced River, just outside the park.

Best time of year to visit: The best time to visit is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild. 

14. Six Senses, Douro Valley, Portugal

The Six Senses Douro Valley hotel and spa in Portugal is nestled among vineyards and hills with views of the terraced vineyards of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Douro Valley. 

Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, the hotel offers rejuvenating spa treatments and wellness programs, an infinity pool, farm-to-table cuisine, and experiences such as tile painting and water sports. 

Activities: Tour vineyards, attend wine tastings, and take scenic walks, bike rides, or boat trips along the river. 

Best time of year to visit: The Douro Valley's beauty changes with the seasons, making it a perfect destination to visit throughout the year. 

15. Balearic Islands, Spain

Each as beautiful as the next, the Balearic Islands comprise Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Famous for stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife, the islands are one of the best incentive trip destinations. 

Each island has its unique charm, and as well as renowned gastronomic excellence, the islands also boast a wealth of health retreats, iconic landmarks, and outdoor adventures. 

Activities: Visit unspoiled beaches and historical sites, enjoy the unmatchable nightlife, indulge in water sports, take a sailing trip, and feast on the local Mediterranean dishes.

Best time of year to visit: April to May and September to October for warm, mild weather. 

Let us help you choose the best incentive trip location for your top-performing employees

With so many great options for incentive trip destinations, it can be challenging to decide where to go next -- will it be Hawaii, Costa Rica, or New York?

If you want to make the whole process of booking incentive trips easier, TravelPerk can help. We’re experts in organizing hassle-free incentive trips, from sourcing the perfect location to handling travel arrangements and accommodation. If you need help booking and managing your company's incentive trips, request a demo today to discover how TravelPerk takes care of everything, so you can focus on creating memorable experiences for your team.

The post 15 great destinations for your next incentive trip appeared first on TravelPerk.

Corporate incentive travel programs are more than just a travel trend. Designed as a perk or employee incentive, the travel experiences you provide can improve employee engagement and retention, boost productivity, and in turn, deliver business growth. 

When it comes to successful incentive trip planning, the devil is in the detail. If you want the lowdown on how to plan an incentive trip for your organization, this quick guide lists everything you need to consider.

What to consider when planning an incentive trip

Setting clear goals for the trip 

The first step in planning incentive travel trips is defining what outcomes your organization wants to achieve by delivering such a memorable experience. 

As much as incentive trips are designed to reward top performers, you’ll also want to keep your company goals in mind. When rewarding employees with travel, you might also want to consider how the trip will foster better teamwork, motivate employees to work towards specific business goals, or inspire loyalty. 

With these goals in mind, you’ll have a better idea of what type of incentive trip you want to plan, including how to determine the types of destinations and activities that align with the objectives. 

Setting a budget

Determining your budget for the incentive trip is the next important step in creating lifetime experiences for your employees without breaking the bank.  

As well as taking into account how many employees will be traveling and how long the trip will last, you’ll also need to consider travel expenses including flights, trains, accommodation, meals, activities, and insurance costs.  

Plus, bear in mind that incentive trips might also have tax implications for both your business and employees. 

Choosing the destination and dates

With your objectives and budget firmly established, Your next task is choosing when and where the trip will take place. Remember to take into account the seasonality of the destinations, the availability of hotels or resorts, and any potential conflicts with other corporate events or holidays.

While there are plenty of incentive travel destinations to choose from, you’ll want to research places that align with both your trip objectives and budget. Choose options that include activities that align with the interests and preferences of your team members -- after all, incentive travel is distinct from business travel, and you should prioritize rewarding and motivating employees, rather than imposing itineraries that may not suit their preferences.

You’ll also need to consider the region or country’s local culture, safety, and suitability for both your trip objectives and team members. 

Finally, once you’ve finalized the destination and travel dates, make sure to plan the trip in advance. This will enable you to secure better booking rates for travel and accommodation, ensuring availability while also saving you money in the process.

Planning the itinerary and activities

A detailed itinerary makes for a successful trip. When planning activities consider the duration of the trip -- striking the right balance is key -- ensure that the itinerary includes enough activities without overwhelming travelers. You’ll also need to ensure that employees will be able to enjoy free time and wellness experiences in addition to team-building exercises. 

Consider the diverse interests, preferences, and demographics of all employees and incorporate activities that are enjoyable and engaging for everyone. Plus, make the trip extra special by planning unique experiences and activities that employees wouldn’t be able to do at home. 

Coordinating logistics and travel arrangements

Now that your itinerary is set in stone, you’ll need to arrange accommodation and transportation for your employees. 

Look for hotels or resorts that can accommodate your group size, provide a range of activities, and offer excellent guest services. Additionally, make travel plans that cater to the needs of the entire group, regardless of where they’re traveling from, and make arrangements for employees to move around when they reach the destination. 

Planning group travel trips can be daunting, and even with the expertise of professional travel planners and travel companies, it's normal to feel overwhelmed by the logistics involved.

Luckily, corporate travel platform TravelPerk is on hand to simplify incentive travel planning processes. We take care of every detail -- including sourcing destinations, making hotel and flight reservations, managing check-ins, arranging ground transportation, and even making prepaid restaurant bookings -- to make trip planning a hassle-free experience.

Communicating and engaging with participants

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful trip. Once arrangements have been made, provide regular updates to employees, communicate details about the itinerary and activities, and remind them of what documentation they’ll need to prepare - especially for international travel.

If you’re planning an incentive trip for less than 9 people, don’t get lost in long email threads and endless calendar invites; the TravelPerk Events solution enables you to both arrange travel and accommodation and collaborate and communicate plans all from one place. From here, you can easily share trip details, logistics, agendas, and itineraries with attendees and keep them updated on details or changes to the plan. 

Measuring the success of the incentive trip 

Finally, think about how you’ll measure the success and impact of the trip once it’s over. Asking employees to evaluate their experience will not only help you iron out any logistical details, but will also help you create benchmarks for any subsequent trips. 

Ask employees to provide feedback on the experience via a short survey; ask them what was done well and if they have suggestions on any opportunities for improvement. Some time after, ask senior leaders to evaluate the impact of the experience on your initial trip objectives to help better align goals and experiences in the future. 

Provide memorable experiences with successful incentive travel management

How you plan incentive travel trips can make or break the experience. A solid plan will result in improved productivity, loyalty, and engagement, and also help boost company culture and morale. On the other hand, a lack of a well-prepared plan results in a waste of time, money, and effort.

If you need help booking and managing your company’s incentive trips, TravelPerk can help you save both time and money by using the combined buying power of our clients to negotiate exclusive discounts on your behalf.

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While end-of-year cash bonuses and cash awards are still popular, incentive travel programs are gaining traction as a way for companies to reward their top-performing employees with meaningful, personalized perks. After all, who doesn’t enjoy air travel and vacation as rewards for hitting their performance or sales goals?

But, are incentive trips taxable? As payroll professionals, you're right to be concerned about the payroll tax implications that come with these non-monetary perks. Informing yourself of the impact of incentive programs helps your organization steer clear of any potential financial repercussions caused by non-compliance.

We get it -- income tax and the taxation of incentive trips can be a maze to navigate, especially since different regions have their own set of rules to deal with. This article intends to be a guide, giving your organization a clearer picture of how to handle the important tax rules that might come into play.

How should tax be treated for incentive trips?

So, are employee incentive trips taxable? Before we dive into the subject, let’s take a look at 

how employee incentives in general are treated for taxation purposes.

Are incentives taxable? 

Unlike federal income, social security, or Medicare taxes, the general rule is that employee incentive awards like cash rewards, gift certificates, gift cards, or tangible personal items earned during a tax year, are typically subject to taxes. It’s the same story for cash equivalents, which are incentives that can be easily turned into cash.

Whether incentives are awarded in the form of cash or non-cash items, they must be reported on employees’ tax returns.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sees these incentives as taxable income for employees. The fair market value of the incentives usually counts towards employees’ gross income and needs to be reported on their tax returns. However, the type of incentive, why it was awarded, and how much its worth can affect whether it’s tax deductible and its tax treatment. 

For example, in the case of employee achievement awards or tangible personal property (e.g. a watch or an iPad) given to an employee for length of service or safety achievement award, if the value of the award falls below a certain limit, it may be considered nontaxable income for the employee.

Are employee incentive trips taxable?

The short answer is yes, the IRS considers employee incentive trips to be taxable compensation, just like salary, wages, and other employee incentives. 

Just as with other employee incentives and awards, the fair market value of the trip -- which is the actual value of the trip excluding other miscellaneous fees -- is typically included in the employee's gross income for federal income tax purposes. 

When employees are rewarded for meeting performance goals, the value of the trip is generally considered taxable income. That means that everything from airfare, accommodation, meals, and other travel-related costs are taxable. The trips’ value should be reported as taxable compensation, and the correct tax withholding should be applied.

However, there are some scenarios in which the IRS may give you the green light to deduct the cost of travel awards as a business expense -- for example, if the trip is deemed an employee achievement award. According to The IRS Publication 15-A, you can exclude a maximum of $400 for all the awards given to the same employee in a year. But, if the value goes over this limit, it becomes taxable compensation subject to federal income tax withholding and payroll tax obligations.

Wrapping up 

Rewarding employees with incentive trips is a fantastic way to keep them motivated and show your appreciation. However, it's extremely important to navigate the associated tax rules for tax liability correctly.

This article is meant to serve as a quick guide to tax rules for employee incentive trips but it’s important to note that it doesn’t offer tax, legal, or accounting advice. Tax laws are ever-changing, so it’s wise to consult a professional before making any decisions. 

To ensure accurate compliance with tax rules and regulations, and for advice on your business’s tax, financial, or legal responsibilities, it's recommended that you seek the guidance of a tax professional or accountant. They will have a deep understanding of tax rates and reporting requirements and can provide guidance tailored to your situation.

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Incentive trips for employees are not your average company off-site events. They’re powerful tools that motivate and reward your top performers and have a ripple effect on productivity levels, engagement, and overall company success. 

If you’re just getting started with devising and implementing your company’s corporate incentive travel program, this guide will walk you through some of the most important aspects. We explore the benefits of these programs, offer insights on how to structure them effectively, and provide strategies for promoting them to your employees, ensuring you create successful trips with incredible outcomes.

What is an incentive trip?

Employee incentive trips are the ultimate travel rewards for your top performers that offer unique opportunities for them to relax, unwind, and indulge in unforgettable experiences. These trips go beyond the cash rewards and gift cards -- they boost employee morale by providing a well-deserved break in return for hitting goals and employees’ extraordinary performance.

Google and Salesforce are well-known for running successful incentive travel programs in return for their employees’ hard work. Unlike regular business travel, incentive travel programs are designed to motivate employees with all-expenses paid trips. These experiences create lasting memories and foster a strong sense of appreciation, driving them to continue achieving remarkable results for your company. 

What are the benefits of incentive travel for employees?

They’re motivated by the opportunity to travel 

While cash bonuses are always welcome, travel rewards create a powerful and tangible goal for employees to work towards. In fact, according to a study by The Incentive Research Foundation (IRF), 80% of employees consider group travel incentive rewards to be ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ motivating. 

A chance for rest and improved work-life balance

Incentive travel gives your employees the chance to take a well-deserved getaway from work to unwind, relax, and enjoy some free time. This is especially true since your company will take care of all the details involved in planning, booking, and managing all aspects of the trip. 

Did you know that almost half of American workers don’t use all of their vacation allowances? This statistic shows that employees aren’t currently striking a healthy work-life balance. Providing the opportunity for them to disconnect from work-related responsibilities and allowing them to focus completely on their personal enjoyment and prioritize their well-being. 

Opportunities to bond with their teams 

Happy hours are great, but incentive travel trips are better. Group trips create shared memorable experiences, and can help foster camaraderie, improve team building, and allow employees to get to know each other outside of the workplace.

Increased job satisfaction 

Providing unique experiences can contribute to higher levels of job satisfaction among your employees. A mixture of recognition for exceptional performance and the memorable trips themselves help to create a positive work environment, boost morale, and give them an improved sense of fulfillment in their roles.

What are the benefits of incentive travel for organizations?

It boosts motivation and productivity

Travel incentives motivate employees to ramp up their productivity, and as a result, achieve their targets and meet your company goals. These incentives also inspire others to strive for success to be in with a chance of the same, coveted rewards. If incentives are based on group performance, they also foster better collaboration and teamwork as teams work together to win the award.

Productivity leads to increased sales and profits 

When employees are motivated, they’re more productive. And when they’re more productive, they contribute to increased sales and profits and fuel your business’s growth. 

According to a study by The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), 80% of companies report that the most important benefit they receive from incentive travel programs is increased sales/and or profits. 

Employees are likely to stay longer at your company

Higher levels of employee engagement lead to better employee retention rates. Setting goals and rewarding employees when they achieve them provide a sense of purpose, and also increases the loyalty they feel toward your company. 

Top-quality candidates are attracted to travel perks 

Great candidates can afford to shop around when it comes to considering new opportunities. As well as salary, they’re also looking for great perks that come with the job, and advertising your incentive travel program is a great way of attracting top talent during the hiring process. 

Showcasing your company culture, including your travel incentive program for employees, also gives you an edge over your competitors when job seekers are looking for new roles. 

How do you structure an effective incentive travel program?

Decide on which type of incentive travel program you want to create

Numerous types of incentive programs exist, and before you begin to draft your incentive travel program, you’ll need to decide how to tailor them to meet the needs of your organization. 

Here are some examples of incentive travel programs that can help you meet your business objectives:

Sales incentive reward programs

This type of program is designed to reward top-performing sales teams and representatives and is a powerful tool for driving sales performance. Those who achieve their sales targets or surpass performance goals will be rewarded with a travel experience. 

Performance-based incentive programs 

These programs reward employees with a trip based on meeting or exceeding specific performance criteria. You can set targets related to productivity, efficiency, or achieving specific goals. 

Recognition incentive programs

Recognition programs focus on acknowledging and rewarding employees for their outstanding contributions or achievements. Depending on your criteria, those who demonstrate exceptional performance across specific areas of the business will be rewarded with a trip.

Use an online corporate travel company to help manage your trips 

Creating exceptional incentive trips involves a lot of moving parts. Online corporate travel companies can significantly streamline the booking and management of all aspects of your travel plans, including travel, accommodation, team-building activities, and itinerary planning.

If you’re booking a trip for 9 people or more, they even have a dedicated group booking service that handles sourcing the ideal incentive travel destinations, securing hotel and flight reservations at exclusive rates, arranging dependable ground transportation, and even handling prepaid restaurant bookings. 

Decide how you’ll evaluate the success of incentive trips 

One final important aspect of structuring an incentive trip program is deciding how you’ll measure the success and impact of the trip once it’s over to help you iron out any kinks in the process and create benchmarks for future trips. Here are a few ways you can evaluate travel experiences: 

Ask employees to provide feedback 

Send attendees a survey and ask them to evaluate the trip. Gather feedback on what aspects went smoothly, identify areas for improvements, and suggestions for future trips. 

Analyze performance metrics 

Relevant performance metrics will help you assess if the incentive trip had a positive impact on individual and team performance. For example, take a look at any changes in sales figures, productivity levels, or customer satisfaction ratings. 

Assess employee engagement 

Again, surveys can help you measure employee engagement and the trip’s return on investment. Look out for indicators such as increased motivation, higher job satisfaction, and improved collaboration.

How do you communicate and promote the incentive travel program to employees?

Making employees aware of your incentive travel program helps you maximize its impact. Here are a few ways to promote the program and generate excitement and anticipation among employees.

Make a big initial announcement 

Consider making a live announcement during a company-wide meeting, corporate event, or an in-person national sales meeting so that all employees know about the program, and be sure to communicate what the requirements are to qualify for an incentive trip!

Create a video about the incentive trip 

Using visual aids like videos is an excellent method of creating enthusiasm and also disseminating relevant information. You can include details about the destination, hotel, and activities, and can even consider creating a series of videos to maintain excitement and remind employees of what they need to achieve to secure a place on the trip. 

Personalized communication

Tailor emails or messages to each employee and provide information about which of their contributions will ensure they qualify for the travel incentives. Recognize past achievements and connect them to the opportunity of earning a trip.

Wrapping up: Final tips for implementing successful incentive trip programs

As you begin planning these exciting adventures for your top achievers, here are some final tips to ensure your programs are successful:

1. Clearly define your trip objectives and align them with your business goals.
2. Tailor the incentive trip program to match your business and its needs. 
3. Use an online travel company to help you plan successful, customized, hassle-free experiences.
4. Communicate the program details to generate excitement and participation.
5. Regularly evaluate and adjust the program based on feedback and results.

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Here, we delve into the key duties and responsibilities of a procurement manager, their tasks, and how they manage the procurement process to help a business achieve its strategic goals.

What is Procurement Management?

Procurement management is a complex business function that involves the process of planning, managing, and purchasing goods and services from external suppliers and sources to meet company needs. 

As a key business administration function, procurement officers and managers are responsible for acquiring goods and services of the highest quality at the lowest cost.

Effective procurement activities include identifying requirements, selecting suppliers and managing supplier relationships, contract negotiations, and managing purchase orders from start to finish. The head of procurement and procurement managers are ultimately responsible for getting the most out of the company’s purchasing power and ensuring high levels of risk management.

Ensuring a high-performing procurement function is essential for businesses that want to gain an edge over their direct competitors, realize cost savings while meeting business needs, streamline operations, increase their profitability, and optimize their processes.

What does a Procurement Manager do?

Procurement managers — sometimes known as purchasing managers — play a critical role in ensuring that organizations have the resources they need to operate effectively. They use a combination of management skills and negotiation skills to identify and source the best products and services for their organizations. 

To understand the business’s procurement needs, procurement managers excel at working closely with various departments and stakeholders to ensure that the organization has the resources it needs to operate effectively. 

They also select new suppliers based on an analysis of factors such as quality, price, and delivery time, and negotiate contracts to obtain the best deals. They’re also responsible for managing supplier and vendor relationships, approving purchase orders, and performing risk assessments on potential contracts and agreements.

Procurement professionals also have strong leadership skills that help them oversee the entire procurement lifecycle, manage and motivate a procurement team to achieve organizational objectives and make difficult decisions.

Procurement managers also rely on their strong communication skills to help them build strong relationships with various stakeholders, suppliers, and internal departments. They’re able to articulate the organization's procurement strategy and goals to both their teams and external audiences with the goal of obtaining the best goods at the best prices to protect the business’s bottom line.

Procurement Manager responsibilities, duties, and tasks list

A procurement manager’s job will vary depending on the business and industry they work in. A varied skill set and years of experience in relevant industries enable them to manage all stages of the procurement process, partnerships, and purchasing processes.

While some procurement manager roles are entry-level, others require additional certifications such as a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree.

However, while there are many different types of procurement and procurement roles, there are many duties that are commonly found within any procurement manager job description.

• Identifying the procurement needs of the entire organization.

• Managing direct procurement processes, including the purchasing or obtaining of raw materials, resources, goods, and services for manufactured goods. 

• Managing indirect procurement, including the purchasing of goods, services, supplies, and materials needed for daily operations. 

• Creating RFQs and overseeing competitive bidding cycles.

• Managing procurement budgets, strategies, and payment processes. 

• Developing and implementing cost-effective procurement strategies and policies for the purchasing of raw materials, goods, and services.

• Managing the procure-to-pay process, including requisitioning, purchasing, receiving, invoicing, and paying for goods and services.

• Evaluating and strategic sourcing of potential suppliers.

• Devising initiatives to drive procurement performance. 

• Negotiating contracts with vendors to secure the best deals and terms. 

• Maintaining advantageous relationships with suppliers and managing disputes.

• Monitoring supplier performance for optimal business operations performance.

• Ensuring the timeliness and effectiveness of goods and services. 

• Forecasting to predict future demand for goods, services, and purchase requisitions.

• Collaborating with internal departments to ensure procurement needs are met.

• Finalizing purchase details and approving purchase requests and purchase orders.

• Tracking key metrics and KPIs to reduce costs.

• Analyzing procurement data, conducting spend analysis, and preparing reports.

• Streamlining the organization’s business travel processes, including ensuring the best corporate management rates and maintaining compliance. 

• Optimizing workflows and automation processes to save time and money. 

• Compiling reports for the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO).

• Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, standards, and laws. 

• Incorporating new procurement software, e-procurement processes, and business processes when necessary.

• Leading the procurement department, including a team of procurement officers and other team members.

• Developing and implementing risk mitigation strategies. 

• Monitoring industry trends and developments.

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If you’ve been working in the Human Resources department or the HR field, and are now looking to make the leap into a managerial role as an HR leader, you’re probably wondering what Human Resources manager skills you need to be successful.

Here, we take a look at the key human resources skills, qualities, and competencies you need and how to engage in continuous development to help you grow into a highly effective HR manager.

What skills do you need to be an HR manager?

HR managers play a critical role in all industries by managing the workforce and ensuring that the company's human capital is utilized effectively to achieve organizational goals. 

While there are some skills for HR professionals that are universal and essential across all industries, bear in mind that there are also some industry-specific HR skills that may be required. 

Here are the key hard and soft skills that HR managers need across all industries:

1. Communication skills 

HR managers require strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey information to and interact with a range of people and business partners. They also need to be able to easily build and maintain employee relations, negotiate, and mediate certain matters.

Since their job responsibilities range from liaising with potential new hires and onboarding to presenting complex HR data to stakeholders and managing HR teams, HR managers also need to be extremely comfortable with and adept at expressing themselves.

2. Strategic thinking

A key part of being an HR manager is ensuring that HR policies, strategies, and practices align with the company’s goals. Strategic thinking is an essential skill that enables them to analyze situations and implement the correct solution that will benefit the business.

For example, when it comes to the hiring process, they can use their strategic planning and thinking skills to select a stellar candidate pool full of talented individuals that have the skills and potential to fulfill long-term business objectives. They also know how to enact strategies that will give their companies a competitive edge by investing in the right people at the right time.

3. Leadership skills 

HR managers are also highly effective leaders who can guide employees to fulfill their potential, create solutions to problems, and guide the workforce in the direction of company success. 

Great leaders also have great decision-making skills — they’re also able to take ownership in times of change and instability, can quickly anticipate problems before they arise, and lead by example.

4. Interpersonal skills and empathy

One of the most important HR skills is being able to empathize with employees and manage them in productive ways. HR managers interact with a wide range of people and different issues and are able to use their experience and judgment to manage different relationships and personalities.

They also have high levels of emotional intelligence and great listening skills which enable them to respond appropriately and with candor, irrespective of the circumstances or individuals they need to communicate with. These capabilities also help HR departments navigate conflict management processes.

5. Organizational skills

HR managers are responsible for a wide range of tasks. These include developing talent acquisition strategies, creating professional development programs, designing onboarding processes, conducting performance reviews, handling employee disciplinary meetings and conflict resolution, and producing departmental reports and evaluations -- just to name a few. 

With so many plates to spin, HR managers need to have high-level organization and time-management skills that will help them prioritize tasks and complete them in a systematic way — while keeping the needs of the business front of mind.

6. Command of HR technology 

Every human resources professional needs to have some experience with HR and recruiting technology, including applicant tracking systems, performance management tools, management software, and payroll solutions.

These technology solutions help track and manage the entire employee life cycle, manage the workforce, automate recruiting tasks, and produce essential reports to help guide the business toward its long-term goals. 

7. Training and developmental skills

HR managers are responsible for overseeing employee training, including identifying when an employee is ready to take on training opportunities, developing budgets, and highlighting how training programs will maximize performance and bring value to the business.

How to be a great HR Manager

HR managers play an essential role in all successful businesses -- after all, they oversee the management and development of a company's most valuable asset: Its employees.

As well as mastering the key human resource manager skills and qualifications, you also need to engage in continuous development to help your organization thrive. 

Here are a few tips to help you grow as a highly successful HR manager, broaden your skill set, and manage your career path.

1. Keep up-to-date with employment laws and regulations

As an HR manager, it is important to have a strong understanding of employment laws and regulations, particularly those that pertain to your country, state, and industry. This includes being aware of changes to legislation and how this might impact your organization and its employees. 

2. Foster a positive workplace culture

Cultivating a positive workplace culture is essential for attracting top talent and employee retention. You can focus on promoting a healthy work environment by creating employee engagement initiatives, encouraging and practicing open communication, conducting regular check-ins, and proactively offering opportunities for professional development.

3. Embrace technical skills

Technology is an HR manager’s best friend. As well as enabling you to automate tasks, monitor key metrics, and manage your workforce and talent pipelines, HR technology can also help you prioritize your most important objectives.

With the right technology, HR managers can also optimize other business functions. For example, if you’re responsible for managing your company’s business travel programs, corporate travel management software can help you better manage invoices and VAT, access corporate travel rates, optimize travel spend, and improve travel policy compliance.

Plus, to help you foster efficiency across the business, many HR software tools have robust integration capabilities to help you obtain data and insights from other tools and platforms you or other teams already using. 

4. Build a strong team

Your job as an HR manager is to build strong teams from the outset to help the business succeed. As well as investing time in building a rapport with core team members and current employees, make sure that your recruiting strategy includes details on culture fit and your company’s core values.

5. Commit to continuous learning and development

Being a great HR manager means committing to proactive learning and development. This includes attending HR conferences, taking relevant courses and certifications, seeking feedback from your team, and researching the latest best HR practices.

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Human resource managers wear many hats and are responsible for a wide range of human resources (HR) activities, including recruitment, training and development, managing employee compensation and benefits, compliance, and performance management. 

Here, we take a deep look at what a Human Resource manager does and the critical role they play in a business. We delve into what human resource management is and the core responsibilities of an HR Manager. 

What is Human Resource Management?

Human resource management (HRM) is the practice of managing an organization’s human capital -- otherwise known as employees. It involves the recruitment, selection, training, and development of existing employees and new staff to ensure that the organization has the right people in the right roles to achieve its objectives. 

HRM also includes activities such as performance management, compensation and benefits administration, employee relations, and workforce and strategic planning. HR professionals are responsible for creating and enforcing policies and procedures that comply with employment laws and regulations, as well as promoting a positive company culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and employee well-being.

Since HRM directly impacts employee engagement, productivity, and retention -- and therefore a company’s success -- effective HRM is critical. HR managers must have strong communication skills, leadership skills, sound decision-making competencies, and work experience in several administrative functions to enable them to balance the needs of employees with business objectives.

With the rise in remote working practices and hybrid working models, effective HRM has become even more important in the rapidly changing business landscape. Plus, as companies face the challenge of talent shortages, major digital transformations, and an aging workforce, talented HR professionals are increasingly sought after to lead human resources departments and help businesses thrive.

What does a Human Resource Manager do?

HR managers are responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources within an organization, including recruiting, hiring, managing training and development programs, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. 

They’re also in charge of employee engagement strategies, developing employee surveys, and implementing best practices. Developing and implementing best practice policies and procedures, managing employee performance and employee benefits programs, and overseeing the recruitment and selection of new employees are also key HR manager duties..

Since HR managers are responsible for maintaining compliance with the relevant industry regulations and standards, as well as internal policies, they must also stay up-to-date with changes in labor laws and regulations, as well as trends and best practices in HR management.

In addition, HR managers must be able to work effectively with other heads of department and senior management, as well as with external stakeholders, including job candidates, labor unions, labor relations specialists, and legal and regulatory bodies. 

HR Manager responsibilities, duties, and tasks list

So, what does a HR manager do on a day-to-day basis? An HR manager’s job will vary depending on the business and industry they work in. A varied skill set and years of experience in relevant industries enable them to perform a wide range of tasks and responsibilities.

Some HR manager roles also require additional HR certifications such as a master’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or an SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) certification.

However, there are many duties that are typically found within any HR manager job description. 

• Developing and implementing HR policies and procedures that align with the organization's goals and objectives.

• Managing the talent management process, including recruitment, selection, onboarding, and determining hiring processes for new hires.

• Designing interview questions, conducting interviews, and creating employment offers and packages for successful candidates.

• Monitoring training needs and developing and managing employee training programs.

• Ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations, including health and safety rules.

• Managing employee compensation and benefits programs, including salary reviews and bonuses.

• Managing employee relations and conducting conflict management and resolution.

• Enforcing company policies and leading disciplinary procedures. 

• Developing and managing performance management systems to track employee performance and conduct performance evaluations.

• Developing and implementing employee retention and employee engagement programs to increase employee retention. 

• Streamlining the company’s business travel programs, including establishing a travel policy and implementing software that allows employees to self-book trips and produce travel reports.

• Conducting employee surveys and analyzing the results to identify opportunities for improvement.

• Engaging in project management to devise new HR strategies. 

• Managing employee records and maintaining accurate and up-to-date HR databases.

• Developing and managing employee engagement initiatives to foster a positive work environment.

• Staying up-to-date with changes in labor laws and regulations and updating HR policies and procedures.

• Managing HR budgets and providing reporting HR activities to the HR director and other senior managers.

• Providing guidance and support to managers and employees on HR-related issues.

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When booking corporate travel, you’ve got two main considerations for the group: flights and hotels. 

We’ve already covered what you can do to get the best rates on group flights, and now we’re going to take a look at how you can do the same for hotel stays. 

Getting better rates on group hotel bookings is considerably easier than getting better rates on air travel. You’ve got more room to negotiate as hotels don’t have the same occupancy predictability and price fluctuations as air travel. They’re more likely to offer you a volume-based discount without worrying whether they’re sacrificing a higher-paying customer in the future.

New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, the Caribbean—you name it. These eight tips will help you get the best hotel rates when booking group travel, wherever you are.

Buckle up and let’s begin.

8 Ways to get group discounts on hotels

1. Negotiate directly with hotels

At the top of our list is to negotiate directly with the hotel you’re interested in. You might be able to access volume-based discounts or special rates if you get in touch early enough, so let them know exactly what you’re looking for and the size of your group. 

It’s also worth stressing the benefits of an ongoing business relationship between your company and the hotel. Outline the frequency and volume of business bookings your company is looking for, and highlight that you’re looking to find a hotel you can rely on for all your accommodation needs.

Don’t be afraid to shop around: you can use one offer as leverage when negotiating another. Business travelers are key for the hospitality industry’s post-covid recovery—use that to your advantage when booking rooms.

Plus, over time you’ll be able to build strong relationships with hotel reps. As the saying goes: it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. In the context of getting the best group hotel rates, the hotel sales rep is definitely someone you want a strong connection with.

2. Use a travel management company to make bookings

Negotiating directly with hotels is great, but getting access to pre-negotiated rates is even better—especially when those rates have been negotiated by experienced corporate travel agents and experts.

Wondering how to access these rates? Well, with a travel management company (TMC) like TravelPerk, the negotiating is all done for you. TravelPerk has pre-negotiated rates with a wide variety of hotel chains and accommodation providers, such as Premier Inn, Melia, and Eurostars. 

This ensures you get the best possible rates for group bookings, and simplifies the reservation process from start to finish. No back-and-forth with different hotels, no manually uploading guest details, no time spent waiting for sales reps to get back to you—just an easy-to-use online booking tool that gets the job done by EOD.

3. Don’t just focus on the price

When it comes to bagging a deal, you need to look further than the price—look at what’s included in the entire package. Does the hotel offer a shuttle service to and from the airport? Are any meals included in the rate? 

Alongside what the rate already includes, see if you can negotiate any further perks or upgrades. Hotels may not always be flexible on price, but they might be willing to throw in some added perks for your group—maybe early check-in or room upgrades where possible. These perks can contribute towards some significant savings. You can always add these on arrival,  but it’s worth considering when booking.

Without any perks or amenities, guest rooms are just a bed, a bathroom, and a TV (if you’re lucky!). It’s the extras that can make one deal more valuable than another, so it’s key to keep benefits in mind when making a final decision. 

4. Book in advance 

The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get a good rate. You might be tempted to leave it until the last minute in the hopes of an exclusive deal—trust us on this one. This is a risky tactic even with small bookings, never mind large group bookings. 

Booking early ensures you get a good rate, and it also ensures hotels have the availability you need. Leaving a 30+ room booking until the month before can mean that your options are limited to hotels with that availability—meaning you’ve far less choice and room for negotiation.

It’s also important to remember that negotiating your own group rates takes time—it can involve days, even weeks, of back and forth with hotels. Give yourself the time you need—don’t leave everything until the last minute.

5. Opt for smaller rooms

It’s standard practice for employees to have a room to themselves when traveling for business, so you’ll likely need one room for each member of your group. It’ll come as no surprise that different rooms have different rates. For example, a room with one king bed is typically less expensive than a room with two queen beds. It might not seem like all that much, but when you’re making group bookings, the difference quickly adds up. 

It’s also worth considering the number of rooms of each size a hotel has. Smaller hotels might be limited in the number of standard rooms they have, meaning you’ll likely end up paying higher prices for premium rooms out of obligation.

6. Choose non-refundable rates

If you’re 100% sure you’ll need the rooms over a certain period, book a non-refundable rate. Most hotels offer a reduced room rate that offers no flexibility, but you could be looking at savings of up to 25% if you don’t need flexible bookings.

7. Check your corporate credit card loyalty program

You may already have—or be looking at getting—a corporate credit card. Using these cards to pay for your group bookings can get you company hotel discounts, the occasional free room, or even some add-ons like extra meals. 

AmEx, Capital One, Citi, Chase, and Discover all maintain travel programs, and you can use your points to save money for your company. These types of corporate cards can be expensive to own and maintain, but using them frequently enough quickly earns the investment back.

It’s also worth considering if a hotel has its own loyalty program. Making regular bookings with the same hotel or hotel group can get you extra benefits and rewards. It’s a good idea to do some research ahead of making the booking—that way you know you’re getting a good deal.

9. Inquire about extended stay discounts

If you stay at a hotel for longer than five days, you can normally get what’s known as an extended stay discount. This might not be on the hotel’s website, but it’s common practice to ask for one—and it could make a big difference.

Make group booking a breeze with TravelPerk

Group bookings can be a corporate travel manager’s worst nightmare, especially if they need to be made relatively last-minute. Negotiating rates takes time and effort, and is just one of the many components involved in organizing group travel.

So, don’t! Save yourself time and money on group bookings by opting for a TMC. 

TravelPerk’s pre-negotiated rates help ensure you get great hotel rates for group bookings. The intuitive platform is easy to navigate and use, and you can find your ideal group booking from a selection of 26,000+ hotels in our inventory.

Plus, you can make group bookings even easier by using our group travel management service for end-to-end group travel bookings. We take care of every detail—using our connections and experience to ensure you get exactly what you need, without any of the nasty surprises that can impact group travel bookings.

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Whether you’re an individual looking for your next group travel adventure or a travel manager booking a company retreat, the intricacies involved in booking and organizing group travel can feel daunting. 

With so many people involved, how do you make sure that everyone’s needs are accounted for? How can you be sure that everyone’s submitted their information correctly? How can you make sure that the trip goes ahead with as few bumps in the road as possible? 

Luckily, many group travel companies specialize in organizing group travel and help to eliminate the stresses involved in organizing a trip for multiple people — especially first-time group travelers.

Whether you’re traveling to New Zealand, South America, or Morocco, we’ve put together this guide for individual travelers and businesses looking to book their next group trip or retreat. We cover:

• The common challenges involved in booking group travel
• What services group tour companies offer
• A review of 10 of the best small group travel companies

What are the common challenges involved in booking trips for large groups of people?

For individual travelers and businesses alike, there are certain challenges when it comes to choosing the best group tours, booking group travel, and organizing travel insurance.

Gathering all of the necessary group travel information

For travel managers especially, gathering business traveler information can be a huge challenge -- especially when you don’t have a centralized platform to store and modify their information. 

From recording names, birth dates, passport numbers, and dietary requirements to preferred seat type, loyalty program affiliation, and emergency contact numbers, manual methods just won’t cut it. A travel management solution that allows travelers to enter their own information, and enables travel managers to access it is vital when it comes to booking group travel. 

Multiple moving parts are difficult to manage 

As well as managing multiple people, travel managers also need to keep an eye on the best airline fares and accommodation deals. Maybe you found a great deal on group airline tickets, but one person can’t fly that day which means you need to revisit the travel itinerary from scratch. 

People often have different plans

Group travel can often be tricky when different people want to do and see different things. Plus, when groups travel for business, they’ll also likely have meetings and conferences at different times. Sometimes, travel itineraries can be rigid and not allow for much deviation which can lead to disappointment for some travelers. 

What are group travel companies and what services do they typically offer?

Group travel companies curate trips, adventures, and itineraries, and manage the booking of transport options, accommodation on behalf of a group. 

Many group travel companies have their niche. While some cater to certain age ranges (18-35 groups and “senior” groups), others cater to the type of trip, for example, overseas adventure travel, cycling vacations, and mountain trekking. 

Via their group travel websites, group travel companies will: 

Design travel itineraries according to client needs 

One of the key benefits of using group travel companies is that everything is taken care of on behalf of the traveler. Whether you’re traveling throughout North America, Asia, or Antarctica, every detail can be taken care of.

Group travel companies take care of finding and booking accommodation (they often have established relationships with hotels and other accommodation types and have access to negotiated deals), arranging all necessary transportation, booking restaurants or hotel-provided meals, and organizing activities. 

While some group travel companies have set trip itineraries that travelers can choose from, many also offer travelers the option of customizing their trip to their own wants and needs. 

Provide accessible assistance for travelers 

Many group travel companies will also provide support for travelers while they’re on vacation and find themselves in need of emergency assistance. Many group travel itineraries will also have a group leader who is in charge of the welfare of all travelers in the event of an accident or emergency. 

Offer locally based guides 

Some group travel companies offer locally-based guides who are either from the area or currently live in the area. This means that travelers get the most authentic experiences from locals who know the area like the back of their hands. 

10 of the best group travel companies

The best tour company for you will depend on your budget, the travel style you’re interested in, or your business’s needs. Luckily, there is a wide range of group travel companies that offer different group-booking services for every type of traveler's needs. 

Here’s our pick of the top ten group travel companies for your next great trip. 

1. G Adventures 

G Adventures is a group travel company established in 1990 with a vision of combining backpacking and mainstream travel and connecting travelers with local people in the countries they visit.

As the “world's largest small-group adventure travel company” headquartered in Toronto, Canada, G Adventures offers more than 750 tours in 100 countries, including a wide selection of small-group tours, safaris, and expeditions.

The company’s commitment to supporting global community development projects means that 90% of G Adventures travelers will visit a social enterprise project on their tour. 

G Adventures' main offerings include: 

• Unique and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences 
• Hiking, cycling, rail, and marine tours
• Tours focused on wellness
• 18-to-thirty-somethings tours 
• Solo traveler-friendly group trips

2. Intrepid Travel

Founded in 1989, Intrepid Travel is a group adventure travel company that offers over 1000 escorted adventure tours in over 100 countries, with an average of 10 travelers per tour. 

Headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, Intrepid Travel’s itineraries are designed so that travelers spend as much time as possible doing local things with local people. As a B Corporation, the company is committed to responsible travel and is certified to meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance. 

The company offers several tour “styles” to suit every traveler’s needs and budget (Premium, Comfort, Original, and Basix), and tours are managed by local tour guides. 

Intrepid Travel’s main offerings include: 

• 18-29s tours
• Active adventures (hiking, biking, kayaking, etc)
• Adventure cruising (travel by boat)
• Family tours 
• Wildlife and polar tours
• Women’s expeditions (all-female tours)
• Urban Adventures day tours

3. TravelPerk

TravelPerk is a corporate travel management company and platform that also provides a group travel solution for company retreats, team-building events, incentive travel, corporate meetings, and conferences.

The solution provides expert end-to-end service for booking and managing group business travel. From within one platform, users can book hotels and flights, manage check-in, car rentals, and even make restaurant bookings. 

TravelPerk also offers several unique services such as a VAT recovery solution and a carbon offsetting program. 

TravelPerk’s main offerings include: 

• World-class inventory
• Comprehensive and up-to-date travel alerts for peace of mind
• Self-booking made easy for travelers
• Automated travel policies and in-app approval system
• 24/7 business travel assistance  
• Access to real-time travel spend data
• Pay, report, and invoice all company travel expenses with just one account

If you want to learn more about how TravelPerk can streamline group business travel for your company, reach out today for a free demo. 

4. Exodus Travels

With 45 years of experience, Exodus Travels is longer in the tooth than many group travel companies. Headquartered in the United Kingdom, the company offers over 500 different itineraries in more than 90 countries and is committed to supporting the communities they visit and protecting the environments they travel to. 

Many of Exodus Travels’ team members have been professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, and diving and ski specialists to give travelers the best and most informed trips. The company was also the overall winner of National Geographic's Best Tour Operator Award in 2021.

Exodus Travel’s main offerings include: 

• Trips for those in their 30s-40s, families, and self-guided tours
• Mixed activity trips 
• Small ship cruises 
• Desert treks, coastal walks, and wildlife walks 
• Private group adventures 

5. MT Sobek

MT Sobek, also known as Mountain Travel Sobek, began in 1969 with an Everest Base Camp trek. With over 50 years of experience, the company offers small group itineraries (with group sizes usually fewer than 10 people) led by local guides. 

With headquarters in California, MT Sobek is committed to conservation efforts and supports many organizations such as the Galapagos Conservancy, Alaska Conservation Foundation, and The Fund for the Tiger.

MT Sobek’s main offerings include: 

• Search based on activity/fitness level
• Hiking, trekking, rafting, and kayaking activities 
• Family adventures
• Adventure cruising and camping
• Search by accommodation, including luxury hotels, safari camps and lodges, and rustic lodging 
• Private and customized travel tours 

6. Contiki

Contiki is a small group travel company exclusively for 18-35-year-olds with a commitment to sustainable travel and aims to be carbon neutral in 2022. Headquartered in California, the company offers 350 trips across 75 countries and six continents, with trips ranging from under one week to four weeks. 

Contiki’s trips combine a mix of sightseeing, free time, culture, socializing, and adventure, and also owns several accommodation properties across Europe. 

Contiki’s main offerings include: 

• Skiing and snowboarding tours 
• Short trips and festivals 
• Island hopping tours, road trips, and bus tours
• Pride trips 
• 24/7 customer support 

7. For the Love of Travel (FTLO)

For the Love of Travel (FTLO) is a group travel company aimed at ages 25-39. The company asks travelers to fill out a travel profile so that they can curate the best tour itineraries possible and match similar travelers on the same trips. 

With headquarters in Los Angeles, FTLO takes care of all of the logistics needed to create a group travel trip. The company claims to offer trips that “aren’t luxury, but aren’t budget either”, giving travelers a great middle-ground for their group adventures. 

FTLO’s main offerings include: 

• Weekend trips
• International trips 
• A commitment to being a climate-neutral brand, supporting local economies, and only working with vendors that align with their values

8. Globus

Globus, based in Colorado, is a small group travel company that specializes in group tours of around 20-24 travelers. For over 90 years, the company has planned getaways for a wide range of travelers on different budgets. 

Globus boasts a global network of premier travel partners, operations experts, and hospitality pros to curate smaller group trips, and also offers a personalized planning option. 

Globus’s main offerings include: 

• Low season travel tour deals 
• “Choice touring”, a selection of curated experiences in off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Private group adventures 
• Faith-based travel itineraries 

9. EF Go Ahead Tours 

EF Go Ahead Tours are perfect for travelers who are keen to learn while on their travels. EF is the world’s largest private education company, with Go Ahead Tours as its sister travel company, and uses the former’s partnerships with educators, guides, and tour operators to give travelers deeper insights into the places they’re visiting. 

The company offers more than 175 guided and educational trips across all seven continents and a wide range of destinations and trip types. 

EF Go Ahead Tours’ main offerings include: 

• Multi-country tours 
• Food and wine, history, and family tours 
• Seasonal and special event tours (including Oktoberfest, Christmas market tours, and summer tours)
• Safari and wildlife, battlefield, and national park tours 
• Private and customized group tours 

10. Classic Journeys 

Classic Journeys, based in California, offers small-group walking adventures and itineraries across 50 countries and six continents. The company provides local guides so that travelers can enjoy cultural hosts who truly understand local life. 

As well as “invisible check-ins” where check-ins are arranged in advance, bags are taken directly to rooms, and bellmen are tipped in advance, Classic Journeys also arranges private access events such as private visits to Stonehenge. 

Classic Journeys’ main offerings include: 

• A loyalty program offering discounts and priority room assignments 
• Groups and corporate luxury tours 
• Couples and friends tours 
• Limited edition vacations such as visiting Japan’s cherry blossoms or viewing a solar eclipse 
• A variety of walking, food and wine, multisport, and heritage and ancestry tours 

The post The 10 best group travel companies appeared first on TravelPerk.

Organizing a corporate group trip can be a challenge. Everyone has their own preferences, and you must make them all happy while adhering to a budget and the company travel policy. Some of these challenges include:

• Setting travel dates that suit the most people.
• Finding the best hotel rates.
• Dealing with the differing stay requirements within the group.
• Managing requests and expectations while building team morale and ensuring a successful trip. 
• Finding and booking the trip with all the required approvals. 
• Creating and monitoring tracking spreadsheets, and emails.
• Collecting and consolidating invoices. 
• Tracking costs against your budget manually. 
• Staying abreast of delays and changes. 
• Adapting flights and bookings quickly.

Manually doing all of this is time-consuming and demanding. By the time the arrangements are finalized, you need a holiday yourself.

There has to be a more automated solution to do this, right? The good news is that with the advances in travel technology there most definitely is a better way.

Travel management software is not built just for large enterprises anymore. Companies of all sizes can benefit from travel management software for their group trip and expense management requirements.

Whether you are new to travel management software or looking for alternative options to your current version, we have included the top 5 travel management software options with an overview of what they can offer you.

Let’s look at how using travel management software can simplify the challenges of group travel and give you a great customer experience.

Taking the effort out of group travel

In small business group travel of the past, each employee booked their own trip following the company travel policy. They then claimed a reimbursement.

Nowadays, there are a variety of small business travel services on the market that not only provide an innovative online booking platform, but a chance for your team to save money and streamline the way you book corporate travel.

Larger companies used travel agencies or even travel software solutions with big markups, commissions, and support call fees. You had to find a cost-effective solution to book trips for large groups, book the trips and collect all invoices.

With travel management software, booking group travel becomes a lot easier in the following ways:

• Each employee books for themselves on the system. 
• The travel policy is built-in, so they can only utilize options that comply with your rules. 
• Your company details are built into the system for payment, so there is no need to reimburse the employee later.
• Easy for you to book and manage upcoming group trips 
• Makes it quick to track the travel experience of previous trips. 
• Provides consolidated travel invoices and vendors so you can easily track travel expenses and qualify for bulk spending discounts.
• Provides expense reports.  
• Makes it easy to manage taxes and claim VAT. 
• Saves you time, money, and effort.

Best group booking software tools in the market

There are many travel management system options available across the travel industry, but not all are geared toward group trips. We have listed the latest top 5 travel management software options for group travel with a list of their unique selling points to make group travel easy for you.

1. TravelPerk

TravelPerk is a user-friendly online travel management platform that specializes in corporate travel management. Your group trips are done within your TravelPerk account so you can manage all your business travel in one place.

A trip on TravelPerk can have up to eight travelers. For larger group trips you can use the concierge service. They will help you to enjoy discounted group rates.  

The features and services from TravelPerk include:

• Biggest travel inventory worldwide
• Easy self-booking for travelers in groups of up to eight people
• Automated travel policy compliance and workflow for approvals
• 24/7, 7-star customer support
• Access to real-time travel spending data
• Pay, report, and invoice all company travel with just one account
• Automated VAT recovery so you can claim up to 25% of your group travel VAT
• Group booking for hotels, flights, and rail travel 

TravelPerk also has a specialized Events function. TravelPerk Events makes it easier and faster for you to organize every detail of your events-based business trips. You can do everything from managing attendees and the booking process to scheduling, or choosing locations. All with one click.

Some of the features of this complete solution for meetings and events management include:

• One-stop destination for simple meetings and events travel management: Saves you money and time
• Participants invite: Invite attendees to events and track responses and the status of bookings
• Collaboration: Share trip details like names, logistics, agendas, and more comprehensive travel itineraries with participants
• Communication: Keep attendees updated with additional information or changes to the plan
• Visibility: View travel plans, including arrival and departure times and accommodation details of attendees

TravelPerk is one of the highest-rated travel management software in platforms such as G2 and Capterra.

2. FCM

FCM is a travel management platform-based global company that promises to deliver a new type of travel management.

Their group travel offering caters to all groups and will tailor your group travel management path to your needs and requirements.

Their group travel services include:

• Negotiating fares
• Keep your people in line with your event travel policy
• Cloud-based delegate registration
• Pre- and post-travel management
• Budget management and reconciliation
• Group airfare options, charters, accommodation, and land transfers such as car rentals
• Consolidated travel data reporting
• Day delegate packages and food and beverage packages
• Off-the-shelf team-building, including CSR activities
• 24/7 emergency assistance

3. Youli

Youli is an online platform-based company offering tour operator software to help you organize group trips. Their offering is very different from the services offered by TravelPerk and FCM.

While their platforms are used by  companies to book their group business trips, Youli's solution is aimed at travel booking companies and tour operators to integrate within their website.

They have an interesting Itinerary Creator functionality that is accessible by your travelers 24/7, even when they are offline. The Itinerary Creator offers many functionalities, such as:

• Simple group travel management software able to create individual itineraries and profiles
  • Create opt-ins for pre-trip accommodations, activities, and rentals
  • All documents and tasks are always available to trips guests via a convenient mobile app
  • Integration with Unsplash stock images to help you look professional
• Bookings and payment processing
  • Offer flexible pricing options per individual within the group
  • 0% booking fee options to help you scale and keep more revenue
  • No need for Word docs and Sheets
• Starter travel website with booking integrations
  • High-speed, SEO, and mobile-optimized website with no web development knowledge
  • Time-saving tools and integrations essential for group trip management
  • Affordable custom websites for small travel businesses 
• A supportive community of travel professionals
  • Learn and apply best industry practices
  • Train your team fast with 1:1 consulting

4. Moonstride

Moonstride is a travel management platform built by a team of visionaries, architects, engineers, marketers, and strategic consultants.

They are part of the Vsourz Group, with headquarters in London and offices in the United Kingdom, Spain, Canada, UAE, and India. Their team specializes in travel CRM, booking engines, back office, travel CMS websites, mobile apps, and digital marketing.

They offer an easy-to-use system that helps simplify group travel bookings for tour operators, organizers, and travelers. The system covers the following features for the different users:

Organizers can:

• View, accept, reject and tailor quotes
• Review the details of their booking, from price per person to transfer information
• Turn an estimate into a booking by paying a deposit
• Invite travelers to the group booking to make their choices and payments

Travelers can:

• View invites
• Add their details to a booking
• Invite other travelers
• Choose their packages and options
• Pay for their spot 
• Make payments
• Choose the travelers to pay for
• Pick their packages and options
• Pay online via credit card or request a bank transfer

Your business can:

• Receiving inquiries
• Building a quote
• Creates an itinerary for the booking
• Managing bookings
• Tailor packages
• Handle operations
• Delivering reports
• Chase payments
• Liaise with suppliers
• Integrate with other systems

5. Groupdesk

Groupdesk is a B2B White Label Solution that helps you simplify your group travel business by bringing all the working parts online. They have revolutionized how your company sells group travel and manages online bookings.

With Groupdesk you can tailor and manage different types of trips. You can create any type of product inventory and price points to sell, from 5-star hotel suites, shared dorms, and insurance to ski rentals.

It offers a travel agent interface where travel planners can manage and control their products and sales. It also has a traveler interface where travelers make bookings and organize their trips.

The system features include:

• Automatic Recurring Payments
• B2B White Label Solution
• Brand Control
• 24/7 Bookings
• Tailored Experiences and Itinerary creation
• Marketing and Communication
• CRM and Sales
• Traveler Self-Management
• Inventory and Supplier Management 

Among these options, there is one that stands out in the features and services it offers. TravelPerk offers a travel management solution that focuses on corporate group travel. Their solution includes expense management software, VAT recovery, consolidated invoices, and much more. The reporting capability also includes spending optimization instead of just number tracking.

Do you want to see how travel management software can make it easy for you to find cost-effective solutions and book trips for large groups of people without having to collect invoices? 

Request a demo and experience business travel packed into an all-in-one travel platform with TravelPerk.

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