Best Western International released on Oct. 9 the results of its fall business travel survey conducted by Wakefield Research.

Best Western found that nearly two in five business travelers surveyed said their budgets have increased this year compared to 2011, leading 43% of business travelers to have expectations to travel more for business this year. Only one in ten said their business travel budget had been cut.

When it comes to planning, nearly seven in 10 travelers said they research and book their own travel, rather than use a corporate travel department or travel agent. Also, 82% of business travelers use third-party review websites to book hotels.

Younger business travelers aged 21-44 plan to travel more this fall than last year, compared to only 28% of those aged 45 and older with travel plans.

The top reason why business travelers sign up for travel loyalty programs is to get free hotel stays (48%) followed by airline tickets or upgraded seats (45%), hotel upgrades (40%) and then discounts on travel staples like food and gas (32%).

Overall, 75% said they have a positive attitude about business trips.

The study surveyed 502 U.S. business travelers between Sept.11 and Sept. 18, 2012 though an email invitation and an online survey.

Related news:GBTA's Global Business Traveler Study for 2012