When it comes to the glamorous world of business travel, savvy travelers like ourselves know that it’s less champagne and business class and more navigating infernal flight delays and woefully cold hotel rooms. So, let’s share the love, and by love, I mean those indispensable tips and tricks that keep your sanity intact while rocketing through the stratosphere in a glorified tin can.
Master of Air Travel
Ah, airports, the love-hate relationship of every business globe trotter. Here’s a trifecta of liquid gold advice. First, loyalty programs are your best friends. Make sure to sign up for frequent flyer programs and collect those air miles like a squirrel preparing for a winter’s hibernation. These can be traded for upgrades, free flights, and if the gods are feeling benevolent, access to the sought-after airport lounges. More legroom and less random elbow encounters, yes, please!
Second, invest in a pre-check status. TSA PreCheck or Global Entry will whisk you through security faster than you can say cavity search. This magic ticket lets you skip the unwashed masses, avoid the disrobing ritual, and leaves the laptop undisturbed in your carry-on. Your stress levels will thank you.
And third, travel apps. Fancy technology is a noble steed in your travel crusade. Apps like FlightAware, LoungeBuddy or TripCase can help track flights, locate lounges, and manage itineraries.
Hotel Stays – A Home Away from Home
When the day is packed tighter than your carry-on before the complimentary-mini-suitcase-weight-limit-increaser got involved, the hotel becomes your sanctuary. So, naturally, choosing wisely is the name of the game.
One little gem is using hotel comparison websites. You may also signal your siren song towards loyalty programs once more for freebies and upgrades. A little bird also tells me that hotels will appreciate if you book directly through them instead of third-party websites. So, on your next booking, try shooting them an email or giving them a call. You never know what upgrades or discounts they might throw your way just to bypass the middleman.
Be sure to pick a hotel that’s conveniently located near your meeting venues or has easy transportation access. Time is money, people. Also, make sure the hotel has a solid Wi-Fi connection unless you intend on playing charades with your office while interpreting the boss’s emails.
Vroom-vroom…Car Rentals
If you think you’ll need to zigzag around town faster than your Uber app can keep up, renting a car might be your golden ticket. First up, partake again from the buffet of loyalty programs offered by most rental companies. Not only can points land you luxury upgrades (ever feel the wind in your hair in a convertible?), but also fast-forward your check-out process. Can you say VIP?
Another sweet tip is to check rates frequently. Just like your mood can change at the sight that last piece of luggage that ISN’T yours, rental car rates fluctuate. If the rates drop, you can often cancel and rebook at the lower price, no harm, no foul.
And assurance is the mother of tranquility. Be sure to understand your insurance coverage so that you don’t end up talking to an insurance agent instead of finalizing that deal of a lifetime.
Restaurants and the Business Traveler
Belly grumbling during a conference call because you skipped lunch? Unabashedly falling asleep in your Sushi? Fear not. With a little homework, you can combine meals and business quite effectively (and deliciously!).
First, reach out to the local contacts or concierge for restaurant recommendations. They’ll often have off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will impress your clients. Don’t forget to check on business meal expense policies. Either with your company or your client’s – you don’t want to end up with a truffle-oil-infused-ravioli bill haunting your dreams.
For those adventure-starved souls, lookup into meal delivery options like Uber Eats, GrubHub, or local delivery services. This way, you can sample local fares without having to step out of your cozy hotel room. Just you, your comfy pajamas, and the culinary world at your feet.
So there you go, my intrepid business travelers. While this life may have fewer swim-up bars and more power presentations, with these tidbits of knowledge, you’ll be the smoothest operator at the gate.
And remember, no matter whether you travel frequently or occasionally, being prepared, informed, and flexible can make your journey not only bearable but quite enjoyable. So, buckle up, sign up for those loyalty programs, and let’s get you jet-setting like a pro! Happy travels!