Brief
SMEs urged to lock in travel bookings as South Africa’s fuel prices hit record levels
Corporate Traveller’s GM outlines five strategies for SMEs to curb travel expenses amid soaring fuel costs.
By Felo News Desk · Published
South African small and medium‑size enterprises (SMEs) are confronting a costly fourth quarter as record fuel prices add pressure to peak‑season demand for flights, accommodation and car hire, according to a Bizcommunity report published on 23 October 2026.
What happened
Fuel price increases have coincided with the busiest travel period of the year, when year‑end meetings, conferences and holiday trips compete for limited capacity. SMEs, which typically book travel closer to departure than larger corporates, risk paying higher fares and facing fewer options if they delay.
What the reports add
The article quotes Herman Heunes, general manager of Corporate Traveller, who explains that multinational firms often secure flights 21 days in advance, whereas SMEs operate with a more reactive booking window. Heunes stresses that the combination of peak‑season demand and rising fuel costs makes last‑minute bookings especially expensive.
What was said
“Smaller businesses tend to have a smaller booking window when compared to larger corporates,” Heunes told Bizcommunity.
“SMEs don't have the travel volume to negotiate good rates on their own. A TMC does. Partnering with one gives you access to its buying power, so you benefit from negotiated rates with airlines, hotels and car rental companies that you wouldn't get booking direct.”
“Always look at total trip cost rather than just ticket price. Paying slightly more for a flight or a hotel near a client’s office can deliver more in the long run.”
How it came about
Heunes outlines five ways SMEs can manage Q4 travel costs without compromising business needs or traveller wellbeing. First, businesses should predict trips based on the previous year’s calendar and lock in fares early. Second, they should adopt a total‑trip‑cost approach that includes ground transport, lost working hours and traveller fatigue. Third, Heunes advises paying for flexibility where it counts, as non‑refundable bookings can become costly if schedules shift. Fourth, he recommends partnering with a strong travel‑management company (TMC) to access negotiated rates and a credit facility that protects cash flow. Finally, Heunes suggests evaluating the impact of flexible corporate fares, which, while more expensive upfront, can shield firms from peak‑season price spikes.
Key facts
- Record fuel prices are increasing Q4 travel costs for South African SMEs. (bizcommunity.com)
- SMEs typically book travel closer to departure than large corporates, limiting their negotiating power. (bizcommunity.com)
- Corporate Traveller offers a credit facility and buying‑power access through its TMC services. (bizcommunity.com)
- Heunes recommends a total‑trip‑cost approach that includes ground transport and lost working hours. (bizcommunity.com)
- Flexible corporate fares cost more upfront but can prevent higher last‑minute expenses. (bizcommunity.com)
Sources
- [1] bizcommunity.com — originally reported as “Record fuel prices put Q4 travel costs under pressure for SMEs”
