Top 10 Alternatives to CWT for Modern Travel Management
Industry Insights
CWT (formerly Carlson Wagonlit Travel) is one of the largest and oldest Travel Management Companies (TMCs) in the world. For decades, it has been a go-to provider for large multinational corporations, offering a global footprint and a comprehensive suite of services. However, the corporate travel landscape has changed dramatically. The rise of modern, technology-first platforms has exposed the limitations of the traditional TMC model, which is often characterized by clunky technology, rigid service models, and a lack of agility.
Many companies are now seeking alternatives to CWT that offer a more intuitive user experience, more flexible policy controls, and a more efficient, automated workflow. This guide highlights the top 10 modern alternatives that are challenging the legacy TMCs and providing a better path forward for corporate travel management.
Why Look for a CWT Alternative?
Common pain points associated with traditional, large-scale TMCs like CWT include:
- Outdated Technology: Their online booking tools are often seen as difficult to use, leading to low employee adoption.
- Inflexible Service Models: They often have rigid contracts and a one-size-fits-all approach that may not suit the needs of more dynamic or smaller companies.
- Slow Implementation: Implementing their systems can be a long and complex process.
- Cost Structure: Their pricing models can be opaque, with a variety of fees for service, support, and technology.
The Top 10 Modern Alternatives
This list focuses on platforms that prioritize technology, user experience, and a more modern approach to service.
The All-in-One Travel and Expense Platforms
1. Routespring
- Why it's a top alternative: Routespring offers a powerful, all-in-one platform that combines a user-friendly booking experience with robust policy controls and integrated expense management. It is designed for ease of use and rapid implementation, making it a strong choice for companies of all sizes looking for an agile, modern solution. Its focus on centralized payments and automated expense creation delivers significant efficiency gains.
2. Navan (formerly TripActions)
- Why it's an alternative: Navan has gained significant market share with its modern, mobile-first platform and its integrated corporate card and expense product. It offers a good user experience and a strong inventory.
3. TravelPerk
- Why it's an alternative: TravelPerk is known for its large travel inventory and its "FlexiPerk" feature, which offers a flexible cancellation option. It provides a solid booking experience and has been expanding its expense management capabilities.
The Tech-Forward TMCs
4. Amex Global Business Travel (with Neo)
- Why it's an alternative: As another of the "big three" TMCs, Amex GBT is a direct competitor to CWT. With its acquisition of Egencia and its own booking tool, Neo, it has been working to modernize its technology stack to better compete with newer players.
5. BCD Travel
- Why it's an alternative: BCD is the third of the large legacy TMCs. Like Amex GBT, it offers a global service network and has been investing in its own technology solutions, such as its TripSource platform, to provide a more modern experience.
The Expense-Focused Platforms with Travel Capabilities
6. Ramp
- Why it's an alternative: Ramp is a spend management platform that has expanded into travel. Its core strength is its corporate card and expense automation software. It is a good choice for companies that want to start with a card-first approach to controlling spend.
7. Brex
- Why it's an alternative: Similar to Ramp, Brex provides a corporate card and cash management solution with integrated travel and expense features, primarily targeting the tech startup market.
The Regional and Mid-Market Specialists
8. Corporate Traveler
- Why it's an alternative: As the corporate division of Flight Centre Travel Group, Corporate Traveler focuses on providing a high-touch service model for small to medium-sized businesses, combining technology with dedicated travel consultants.
9. Direct Travel
- Why it's an alternative: Direct Travel is a large, established TMC that focuses on providing customized service and flexible solutions, often appealing to mid-market companies that feel underserved by the mega-TMCs.
10. FCM Travel
- Why it's an alternative: Also part of the Flight Centre Travel Group, FCM targets a larger corporate and multinational market than its sibling, Corporate Traveler. It offers a global network and a flexible approach, blending technology with a strong human service element.
How to Choose the Right Alternative
When choosing an alternative to CWT, consider the following:
- Your Company's Size and Culture: Are you a fast-moving startup that needs an agile, self-service platform, or a mid-sized company that values a more hands-on service model?
- Technology and User Experience: Demo the platform thoroughly. Is the booking tool intuitive? Is the mobile app powerful? High user adoption is key.
- Integration Capabilities: Can the platform seamlessly integrate with your existing HR and accounting systems?
- Pricing Model: Look for a transparent pricing model that aligns with your budget and travel volume.
The corporate travel landscape has evolved. By exploring these modern alternatives, you can find a travel management partner that is better equipped to meet the demands of your business and the expectations of your travelers in the digital age.