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JOHANNESBURG – Travellers, travel managers, bookers (and those holding the purse strings) face a mixed picture in 2026, with significant cost variations depending on where they’re heading.
The latest FCM data reveals some surprises: global airfares are down, certain hotels are more affordable than last year, but flying within Africa isn’t getting any easier. Here’s what to watch for – and how to make your company’s travel budget go further.
Africa: Flight constraints, accommodation relief
If your work takes you around Africa, you’ll still face crowded flights and limited options. Many airlines haven’t restored full schedules post-pandemic, so even as demand returns, it can be tough to find a seat when you need one. Mummy Mafojane, General Manager for FCM South Africa, notes, “If you’re not booking early and keeping an eye on route capacity, you could end up paying a premium or missing out on the flights you want.”
But there’s good news on the hotel front – especially in South Africa itself. Compared to early 2025, Cape Town hotel rates are down 19%, and Johannesburg hotels are 13% cheaper. Hotel rates in key African hubs such as Nairobi and Lagos are also considerably down, while Cairo is holding steady too. This is, in part, due to a development boom in Africa with a surge in hotel construction across the continent – leading to increased competition and more rooms (at cheaper prices).
“It’s a welcome change for travellers who’ve been squeezed by rising accommodation costs for years,” says Mafojane.
Global routes: broad-based savings
Here’s another welcome surprise: international travel is getting cheaper. Business class fares are down 4% and even economy tickets are 3% lower than last year. The reason? Although lower fuel costs have played a role, Mafojane explains that demand has actually fallen short of original forecasts, and airlines have had to adjust their pricing strategies to stimulate demand.
And it’s not just the price of the ticket, but ancillaries too (think seat selection, Wi-Fi and extra legroom). Seat selection fees are down 2%, Wi-Fi charges have fallen as much as 7%, and extra legroom is 3-5% cheaper.
“The decline in these add-on costs means you can often travel more comfortably without busting your budget,” says Mafojane.
If you’re heading to Asia-Pacific, you’ll find even more value. Hotels average $170 a night, and the typical business trip costs just $972, far below the global average of $1,600. Europe’s a mixed bag: hotels are up on average, but there are more flight options, thanks to a 4.3% increase in flights and 5% more seats in early 2025.
Regional hotel variations and the bleisure opportunity
Globally, hotel rates are up 10% to an average of $201, but there are big regional swings. While Europe and the US have seen price hikes, the Middle East offers deals (Dubai is down 18%, Doha down 13%), and Asia-Pacific and Australia/New Zealand are more affordable, often with perks like free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
These trends are making “bleisure” – tacking a few personal days onto a business trip – more attractive. “We’re seeing more travellers extend their stays, especially in affordable destinations,” says Mafojane. “Combining business and leisure can actually stretch your travel budget further and improve your overall travel experience, as long as you stick to company policy.”
Smart traveller strategies for 2026
Whether you’re booking for yourself or working with your company’s travel team, these tips will help you get more value:
- Don’t default to one airline (unless your airline of choice is stepping up in terms of loyalty benefits or serious corporate savings). Check for the “best fare of the day”—you could save more than you think.
- Book 2-3 weeks in advance. FCM’s data shows this is when the best deals are available.
- Keep changes to a minimum. If your change fees start to creep up, rethink your booking habits.
- Pick your destination with care. Some regions offer far better value than others, especially for meetings, events and incentives.
- Look for hotels that include extras like breakfast and Wi-Fi; these add up quickly.
The bottom line
2026’s travel landscape is anything but predictable, but the data shows clear opportunities for savvy South African travellers. As Mafojane puts it: “If you know where to look and plan ahead, it’s possible to travel better for less, even when the market is volatile. Be flexible, ask questions, and use the tools at your disposal. That’s how you’ll get the most from your business travel this year.”
“We’re seeing that the most successful business travellers today are those who understand the cost landscape and work collaboratively with their travel teams,” agrees Juan Antonio Iglesias, Head of FCM Consulting, EMEA. “It’s about being informed and making smart choices that benefit both the traveller and the company.” With the right approach, you can turn global shifts and local quirks into cost savings, extra comfort, and maybe even a little more time to enjoy the journey.
