Written by Mike McMullin
Business travel is back in a big way now that COVID is becoming more like yesterday’s news. That means that companies are sending people on business trips for training and to meet new or existing clients.
From rookie travelers to experienced veterans, it’s always good to be reminded of a few things. This is by no means a comprehensive list of traveling tips, but it’s a good place to start:
- Make sure you understand your company’s travel policy, so you can be reimbursed for all expenses. Many companies have discounts with certain car rental agencies and hotels as well.
- Whenever possible, book a non-stop flight. It may cost a little more, but the time saved will be its own reward.
- Check for rewards programs offered by your hotel and car rental agencies. Frequent stays and rentals can add up to free bookings or substantial discounts.
- Assuming your trip is short, only bring carry-on bags. Make sure your bags are the right size for carry on, though, as many flights have limited overhead bin space. You also save yourself the time involved with going to baggage claim when you reach your destination. Even more importantly, though, you eliminate the chances of your bags ending up in LA when you’re traveling to Orlando.
- Pack both business attire and casual clothing, as you never know if you’ll be going out in the evening for dinner or an event. Pack your suit or dress clothes in a separate suit bag that you can carry on the plane to avoid wrinkling.
- Understand the airline and airport security rules for bringing travel sized toiletries and pack them in one clear zip-lock bag to be visible. Pack any medicines in the same fashion and be sure to have them in the original containers they came in.
- Keep your passport, driver’s license, wallet and phone somewhere easy to find. You don’t want to be digging frantically in your bags to find your identification during a crazy check in process.
- Bring all chargers for your electronic devices and have them fully charged when you leave home. Take advantage of airport lounges and waiting areas that have outlets where you can charge your devices while you’re waiting to board your plane.
- Pack some healthy snacks, especially if you need to control your blood sugar.
- Arrive as early as two hours before your flight at the airport. You never know how busy check in and security lines will be. Remember to check in online early if possible, as that will be one more thing you won’t have to do at the airport.
- If your business travel takes you overseas, there are other things to keep in mind like electrical adaptors you’ll need and a host of other issues that may make for another article!
If you want to reduce the amount of stress that airline travel can cause, have a plan and stick with it. A little preparation in advance can save you a good deal of heart burn during your trip.
