Business travel costs seen rising

Business travelers can expect to pay almost 3 percent more to get from “Point A” to “Point B” in the U.S. next year, according to a report from American Express Business Travel released Wednesday.

“Considering airfare, car rental and hotel stay, we expect the average domestic trip to increase 2.8 percent, or $31, to a total of approximately $1139,” said Herve Sedky, vice president and general manager global advisory services. “An increase of 4.3 percent, or approximately $147, is expected for international trips to bring the average cost to $3556.”

Sedky said lower fuel prices and the slowing economy could mean airlines will lower fares in 2009. But he cautioned that an array of fees for things like meals and baggage could keep the total cost of flights up. Sedky said fees can add as much as 15 percent to the cost of a trip.

The bad news for hotel owners — good news for business travelers — is that lower occupancy rates in most areas will keep 2009 room rate increases below this year’s level, according to the report.