British workers are spending an astonishing portion of their lives travelling for work, with new research revealing the typical employee dedicates over nine months to work-related journeys throughout their career.
The Daily Grind of Commuting
A comprehensive study involving 2,000 commuting workers found that the average person spends more than 52 minutes daily travelling to and from their workplace. This accumulates to nearly 155 hours annually – equivalent to approximately 19 full working days spent purely on getting to and from work.
Beyond the daily commute, employees dedicate an additional 84 minutes monthly to other work-related journeys. When calculated across a full-time career spanning from age 18 to 65, this amounts to the staggering total of nine months devoted entirely to work travel.
Widespread Discontent with Commuting
The research, commissioned by Travelodge, found that 43% of workers consider commuting to the office or going on business trips to be the aspect of their job they dislike most.
This dissatisfaction is so pronounced that a third of respondents said they would prefer to book a local hotel rather than endure lengthy journeys to and from their workplace. Among those who stay away from home for professional purposes (64%), they spend an average of 28 days annually separated from their families.
Nick Jacobs, sales director at Travelodge, commented: "Many people spend a significant part of their lives away from home for work, often missing the comfort and familiarity of their own space."
The Pros and Cons of Business Travel
The survey further revealed that 29% of those who travel for work stay away from home overnight at least once a month. Three quarters (76%) stay in hotels when travelling, prioritising location (52%), comfort (42%) and cost (28%).
However, a third of workers expressed dissatisfaction with the long hours that overnight trips entail, while 31% dislike feeling out of their routine, according to data from OnePoll.com.
On the positive side, 30% appreciate the extra time they get to themselves, and 22% even feel more productive when they're away. Additionally, 21% believe they sleep better when on a work trip, and 17% enjoy avoiding household chores.
Nick Jacobs added: "Staying away from home is bound to have its pros and cons. We know people value the quiet space and comfort that a hotel room provides, and while it's natural to miss family during work trips, having some personal time to relax, focus or unwind can be a real benefit."
Travelodge welcomes millions of business travellers every year, with many reporting they feel better rested and more prepared when staying over, as they can avoid the stress of combining an early start, long commute and tiring day into one exhausting experience.
