Payments in Travel: Key Takeaways from Areka's Latest Webinar

Travel payments are evolving rapidly. New distribution models, emerging payment technologies, changing regulations, and increasing pressure for better data are transforming what was once viewed as a back-office function into a strategic component of corporate travel management.

During our recent webinar, Payments in Travel: Navigating Complexity, Capturing Opportunity, we explored the trends reshaping the travel payments landscape and shared practical considerations for organizations looking to optimize their payment strategy.

Here are a few of the key takeaways:

Travel payments are becoming increasingly complex
Unlike many industries, a single business trip can involve multiple suppliers, payment methods, currencies, booking channels, and settlement processes. As new distribution models such as NDC continue to expand and additional payment providers enter the market, organizations are managing a more fragmented payment ecosystem than ever before.

Payment strategy extends well beyond card programs
Organizations are shifting away from viewing payments simply as a corporate card program. Instead, leading travel programs are evaluating their entire payment ecosystem, including how payment data flows into ERP and expense platforms, supports supplier negotiations, improves traveler experience, and strengthens financial visibility.

Virtual cards continue to gain momentum
Virtual cards offer stronger spend controls, richer transaction data, improved fraud protection, and greater opportunities for automated reconciliation. However, successful implementation depends on supplier acceptance, thoughtful integration with booking tools, and understanding the broader economics behind TMC payment recommendations.

Data quality drives automation
One of the strongest themes throughout the discussion was that technology alone cannot solve reconciliation challenges. Automated expense management and reporting depend on complete, accurate payment data flowing consistently across booking tools, payment providers, expense platforms, and ERP systems. Organizations should design these systems together, not as separate initiatives.

Regulation continues to reshape the landscape
From Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) requirements in Europe to evolving interchange fee regulations and increasing PCI compliance expectations, organizations must stay ahead of regulatory changes that can impact traveler experience, payment costs, and operational processes. Understanding both regional and global requirements is becoming increasingly important for multinational travel programs.

Payments deserve a strategic review
One of the webinar's key messages was that payment programs should be evaluated holistically. Rather than focusing on a single payment product or rebate opportunity, organizations should assess how their payment strategy supports policy compliance, operational efficiency, financial controls, traveler experience, and long-term business objectives.

Watch the Webinar
If you missed the session, or would like to revisit the discussion, you can watch the webinar recording here:

You can also download the presentation here: Payments In Travel Areka Webinar Presentation

If you'd like to discuss your organization's travel payment strategy or learn more about Areka's payment consulting services, we'd be happy to continue the conversation. Follow us on LinkedIn or contact us here.

*Cover photo from Adobe Stock