What's Working Now in Incentive Trips? Top 5 Trends for 2025
Incentive trips aren't just a nice-to-have anymore—they're becoming a must-have for keeping teams inspired, especially with remote and hybrid work on the rise. And companies are stepping up in a big way! Spending on these trips is set to soar by 54% this year, with businesses investing an average of $4,900 per person to recognize and celebrate their top talent. When done right, incentive trips aren't just a reward—they're a chance to build stronger connections, boost team spirit, and motivate everyone to bring their A-game.
But let's face it—what worked a few years ago isn't cutting it anymore. BizBash recently teamed up with Ashley Case, our Senior Director of Operations for Meetings & Incentives, to explore Key Trends from this Year's Incentive Travel Index. The takeaway? Today's incentive trips are all about thoughtful design that goes beyond recognition. They leave employees wowed, energized, and motivated for the long haul. Let's dive into five key trends shaping the future of incentive travel.
1. PERsonalization is the new standard
The future of experiences is all about personalization, and we're seeing a growing trend toward deconstructed options—customization is king! Even meals are shifting to "build your own" formats, giving everyone the freedom to tailor their experience. Also gone are the days of one-size-fits-all itineraries. Today's attendees crave choice, and personalized options are now trending. Whether it's adrenaline-packed hang gliding or calming sound therapy, offering a "choose-your-own-adventure" style of rewards empowers attendees to create experiences that truly matter to them.
These special moments aren't just about having fun—they're about making sure everyone feels seen and appreciated. Smaller, more personal group activities help create deeper connections and spark meaningful conversations, giving everyone stories and memories to share back with the bigger group.
Pro Tip: Consider offering "Pen-Pal" experiences where attendees connect with local guides for intimate activities like cooking traditional dishes or creating art. These highly personal experiences leave a lasting impression—attendees make a friend in the destination and can take home a meaningful memento.
2. balance leisure time & networking
Have you ever been on a business trip where every single minute is planned out? Exhausting, right? Now imagine an incentive trip that feels the same—doesn't sound much like a reward, does it? Incentive trips should be about unwinding and making real connections. These days, attendees are craving something better: more flexibility, more time to recharge, and way fewer back-to-back events.
The key is balancing company networking with personal downtime. Why? Because people value the freedom to relax and choose how to spend their time. The best incentive trips combine group activities, small gatherings, and plenty of free time. For example, a perfectly balanced day might feature small group adventures from morning to mid-afternoon, followed by free time in the late afternoon, and a large group gathering in the evening where the day’s events serve as natural conversation starters. It's all about creating fun, effortless moments that encourage engagement and connection!
PRO TIP: Let attendees customize their schedules. Offer optional activities and free time blocks so everyone can tailor their experience to suit their needs. A little freedom goes a long way!
3. embrace local culture
Resorts are great, but the real magic of an incentive trip lies in the destination. Today's travelers want to explore the area and connect with its culture. They prioritize authentic, eco-conscious experiences that make a positive impact on the local community.
We recently helped turn an ordinary welcome reception in Hawaii into something truly special—a lively market featuring local artists and farmers! Guests got to "shop" for amazing locally crafted goods like honey, hot sauces, chocolate, coffee, kukui leis, kapa fabric and skincare crafted from local ingredients. We collaborated with the chef at the resort to showcase local farmers' produce, as well as products from local distillers and brewers. Each had a presence at the "farmer’s market-style" food stations, where they engaged with guests, talked about their product, businesses and island life. It left everyone feeling connected to the destination and made a positive impact on the community along the way. Companies are embracing this trend by working with local DMCs (Destination Management Companies) to plan activations that respect the environment while helping support the community.
PRO TIP: Pre-trip webinars are becoming increasingly popular, educating attendees on everything from local etiquette to traditional customs. It could be as simple as understanding how to greet someone properly or knowing what to pack for activities that involve religious or cultural traditions.
4. wellness is a must-have
Wellness isn't just a bonus anymore—it's becoming an essential part of modern travel programs. From early morning yoga sessions and walking groups to immersive experiences like sound baths or wellness lounges, attendees now seek options that cater to the mind, body, and soul.
Programs are increasingly looking at wellness from diverse angles, offering unique touches like redlight and compression therapy, wrist stickers and supplements that feed individual needs (energy, focus, relaxation), meditation spaces, and activities, and vibration therapy. Arrival experiences, such as welcome lounges featuring relaxing touches like hand and foot massagers, eye masks and mini facials set a calming tone after long journeys. Designing events around wellness ensures attendees feel cared for, creating a memorable experience of relaxation and positivity.
PRO TIP: Provide options tailored to individual needs. Include wellness activities such as yoga, sound baths, or a dedicated "wellness lounge." A customized itinerary lets guests recharge or engage on their own terms.
5. plan for trending destinations
No incentive trip is complete without experiences that are both unforgettable and perfect for social sharing. In 2025, there will be an emphasis on creating picture-perfect moments, from cliffside sunset dinners to team photos in a dune buggy. Here are the destinations gaining momentum:
• Hawaii: A long-time favorite, Hawaii continues to impress with its perfect mix of luxury and adventure. It is ideal for both first timers and seasoned travelers.
• Japan: Demand for Japan is skyrocketing. Its clean, immersive culture and endless charm make it a standout choice, especially for West Coast travelers.
• Europe: Always a classic, Europe offers everything from luxurious French vineyards to stunning Italian coastlines—an easy way to add the "wow" factor to any trip.
• The Caribbean: A tried-and-true favorite, the Caribbean shines with new properties and all-inclusive options. Its variety of activities and accommodations makes it a reliable crowd-pleaser.
PRO TIP: For companies with diverse teams across the U.S., alternating between East Coast and West Coast-friendly locations makes travel more manageable (and keeps everyone happy).
The evolution of incentive trips opens up exciting opportunities for planners to think outside the box and design experiences that truly resonate. By prioritizing personalization, cultural immersion, wellness, and a thoughtful blend of leisure and connection, these trips are no longer just rewards—they're becoming memorable moments that inspire, unite, and spark stories worth sharing for years to come!
