New research finds hotel rooms have become one of the few places travelers can truly switch off - underscoring the role of Hyatt’s Essentials portfolio in delivering the comforts business travelers value most.

Business travel doesn't end when the workday does. New research commissioned by Hyatt finds that 90% of business travelers say their hotel room is the only place they truly feel "off the clock" during a work trip.

Nearly half (47%) would rather spend free time relaxing alone in their room than attending optional networking events. And some travelers are going to creative lengths to protect that time – including blocking fake meetings on their calendars or inventing excuses to skip optional work events, from caring for a pet anaconda to video calls with family.

The findings underscore the increasingly important role hotels play in supporting business travelers beyond providing a place to sleep. The tactics may be humorous, but the motivation is relatable: for many travelers, the hotel room is where the workday finally ends. Hyatt's Essentials portfolio, including the Hyatt Place, Hyatt House and Hyatt Studios brands, is designed to deliver the everyday comforts and conveniences travelers value most, wherever their journeys take them.

"Business travel has evolved and so have travelers' expectations," says Jason Ballard, Senior Vice President, Global Brand Leader, Essentials, Hyatt. "I travel frequently myself, and I know firsthand how much the little things can make a trip.  From a thoughtfully designed guestroom and comfortable bed to reliable Wi-Fi and breakfast before early meetings, every detail matters. We want guests to spend less time worrying about the basics and more time feeling refreshed and ready for whatever comes next."

The Essentials That Matter Most

Travelers expect comfortable, consistent accommodation that helps them recharge. Nearly half of respondents (46%) say consistency across stays is one of the biggest indicators of a high-quality hotel, with 79% believe staying at a high-quality hotel directly improves their work performance.

When asked, respondents prioritized amenities that help them stay productive and well rested, including:

• Comfortable beds
• Reliable in-room Wi-Fi
• 24-hour food options
• Complimentary breakfast
• Early check-in

The findings reinforce Hyatt's focus on delivering the everyday comforts business travelers value most through its growing Essentials Portfolio. Nearly three-quarters say they typically work in their hotel room after the workday ends.

This underscores the need for guestrooms that support both productivity and rest. Hyatt's Essentials Portfolio guestrooms are thoughtfully designed to include dedicated workspaces in each guestroom that help guests transition between work and downtime. Guests can also enjoy complimentary breakfast at participating hotels and convenient 24-hour food and beverage options, helping them feel at home on the road.

Rewards for the Road

The majority (80%) of business travelers say hotel loyalty programs influence where they choose to stay when booking work travel, highlighting the importance of earning meaningful rewards when away.