The rise of business travel
In 2022, Americans completed almost 430 million business trips within the US, and according to TravelPerk, 62% of CEOs expected their travel budgets to increase in 2024. With corporate travel on the rise, it raises an important question: Does business travel make infidelity more likely?
Is it true that when one spouse or long-term partner is out of sight, they inevitably become distant in their minds and hearts as well?
Or, as Frankie Miller sang for the first time in 1979, “Yes, I blame you, but it’s really me, can’t rid myself of jealousy.”
Does business travel increase the likelihood of infidelity?
There isn’t conclusive statistical evidence to confirm the direct correlation between business travel and infidelity. However, opportunity theory suggests that when individuals are placed in situations with fewer constraints, greater privacy and higher temptation, they may be more likely to act on impulses they wouldn’t entertain at home. This doesn’t apply to everyone, but the combination of distance, novelty and anonymity can influence behaviour. Additionally, moral disengagement can play a role as some individuals may mentally separate their actions from their values while away from home.
The stay-at-home partner’s perspective
Several perspectives on this problem have been explored. From the standpoint of the stay-at-home partner, the possibility of being cheated on by their significant other may add an extra layer of stress to the already pressing issues of managing day-to-day household matters alone.
As a result, the staying-at-home spouse or partner, already dependent on the help of neighbours or in-laws to take care of the children, may feel lonely or emotionally neglected. This emotional vulnerability could, in some cases, make them more susceptible to seeking comfort or attention outside the relationship. Studies suggest that feelings of insecurity and lack of communication can increase suspicion, further straining the relationship.
The travelling spouse’s perspective
According to the Institute for Family Studies, men are slightly more likely than women to cheat on their spouses. This tendency may occur because men are naturally more opportunistic, while emotions primarily guide women.
Business travellers often face high-pressure environments, late-night socialising and networking events, which sometimes involve alcohol and relaxed boundaries. These factors can create scenarios where impulsive decisions are more likely to occur. Psychological distance also plays a role. Being in a different city or country may reduce the sense of accountability or make actions feel less consequential. Additionally, temporary anonymity in new social settings can encourage behaviour outside of one’s typical moral framework.
The third-party perspective
Why would someone consider dating a married man on a business trip?
Such brief encounters are risky, irrational and unlikely to grow into meaningful relationships. Yet, some individuals are drawn to these fleeting moments driven by curiosity, the thrill of secrecy or even a desire for emotional connection without long-term commitments.
Because the object of their attraction is in town for just a few days, they may feel free to shed their usual moral inhibitions, making it easier to rationalise an affair as a one-time event rather than a serious betrayal. Excitement-seeking behaviour and short-term gratification are psychological factors that may override long-term commitment in these moments.
The geographical factor
The destination of one’s business travels may increase the likelihood of cheating on one’s spouse or partner while away.
For example, Thailand is well-known for its nightlife and statistics suggest that infidelity is more common in certain regions. In 2020, Thailand had an infidelity rate of 55%, and by 2022, 51% of surveyed participants admitted to having cheated.
Similarly, some cities have reputations for indulgence and anonymity. Business travellers who frequent locations known for high levels of casual encounters may find themselves in an environment that normalises extramarital activities.
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) coined this phrase in 2003 as part of a marketing campaign promoting the city as an adult entertainment hub.
The “City of Sin” offers a level of anonymity that could lure business travellers into short-term extramarital affairs without fear of social consequences. The psychological effect of being in an environment where “anything goes” can lower inhibitions and make risky behaviour feel more acceptable. Additionally, social influence plays a role when surrounded by peers engaging in similar activities, individuals may feel a sense of peer normalisation of infidelity.
The world’s most faithful nation
While some destinations may encourage temptation, others uphold strong cultural and social values that discourage infidelity.
Uruguay is one such example. In 2022, Uruguay had an infidelity rate of just 10%, which is one of the lowest in the world. This may be attributed to deeply ingrained family values and social norms.
Uruguayans internalise family commitment from an early age and social disapproval of extramarital affairs is strong. As a result, business travellers from Uruguay may be less inclined to cheat, knowing that their actions could carry significant societal consequences even if they are far from home. Cultural expectations of monogamy play a crucial role in shaping behaviour.
The role of technology in business travel infidelity
Modern technology has made cheating more accessible than ever. Dating apps and social media platforms allow travellers to connect with new people instantly.
A 2025 survey by a travel research firm found that 42% of business travellers admitted to using dating apps while on work trips, even if they were in a relationship. The convenience of digital communication enables discreet arrangements and may lower the psychological barriers to infidelity.
At the same time, technology has also made it easier for partners to track each other, with GPS tracking, video calls and real-time social media updates increasing transparency. This has led some couples to implement mutual trust-building practices, such as frequent check-ins and open digital communication while apart. Technology can act as both an enabler and a deterrent, depending on how it is used in a relationship.
How to strengthen relationships despite business travel
While business travel can create challenges, it does not necessarily lead to infidelity. Strong relationships are built on trust, communication and commitment. Here are a few ways couples can maintain a healthy relationship despite frequent travel:
- Frequent communication: Regular check-ins via phone or video calls help maintain emotional closeness.
- Clear boundaries: Discuss what is acceptable behaviour while travelling.
- Trust-building habits: Reassuring words, transparency and small gestures of affection can strengthen trust.
- Quality time at home: Making an effort to reconnect after business trips can reduce emotional distance.
- Avoid temptation: Being mindful of high-risk situations (excessive drinking, private meetings, etc.) can prevent regretful decisions.
Conclusion
So, does business travel really increase the likelihood of infidelity in long-term relationships? The answer is not clear-cut. While travel presents increased opportunities, infidelity is not inevitable. The likelihood of remaining faithful depends on individual values, the strength of the relationship and the cultural environment.
Ultimately, strong, monogamous relationships are built on trust, mutual respect and commitment, factors that remain unchanged regardless of location. By fostering open communication, reinforcing emotional bonds and setting clear expectations, couples can ensure that business travel does not become a threat to their relationship.
Image of Cathay Pacific Boeing 777 by Norbert and iPhone image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay
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