Fellow jet-setters and highway warriors, let’s face it, business travel has its peaks and valleys. One moment you’re chairing a metropolis conference; the next, you’re wedged into a center row seat on a crowded plane. So, for us frequent flyers and rental car racers, mastering the art of business travel is a must. Let’s discuss the holy trinity of business travel today – air travel, hotel stays, and car rentals. Imagine them as the outfield of your baseball diamond, the French fry to your fast food, the…well, you get the idea. So buckle up, because here comes a whirlwind tour filled with tips and advice to make your business ventures just that bit smoother.
Up In the Air – Winning at Air Travel
Rule number one with business travel – every minute counts, and delays are the enemy. Packing efficiently is a game-changer. Forget last year’s fashion, pack light, pack smart, and pack for wrinkle resistance. Rolling clothes instead of folding, utilizing shoe space, and avoiding the rookie mistake of overpacking are your golden tickets to a hassle-free journey.
And when every minute counts, consider investing in a lounge membership. For the times when patience is thin, and withering under not-so-comfy airport seating isn’t an option, lounges offer a sanctuary with food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and peace!
Sweet Dreams – Winning at Hotel Stays
Your hotel could be the difference between sealing the big deal and spending tomorrow’s meeting yawning. Travel apps like HotelTonight and Booking.com have some brilliant last-minute deals. But, if your company’s budget is tighter than a non-stretch pair of skinny jeans, services like Airbnb for Work offer cost-effective solutions with homely charm to boot. Repeat after me: CEOs don’t scrimp; they strategize.
It’s a brave new world out there with COVID pulling the strings. Keep yourself aware of your hotel’s cleaning protocols. Many now offer contactless checkins and using personal devices to avoid high touch surfaces. Silver linings, right?
On the Road – Winning at Car Rentals
When you’re out there selling ice to penguins or showing clients just why your company is top dog, you need wheels that wow but won’t drive your budget off the cliff. Striking a balance is important. Select a rental that suits not just your wallet size, but also your comfort needs and your business reputation.
Stay ahead of the curve by using car rental apps like Kayak and Expedia. These offer detailed comparisons of prices, vehicles, and terms, and conditions, helping you remain one step ahead in the rental game.
Now, not to rain on your parade, but insurance and collision waivers are the elephant in the room. It’s as complex as quantum physics but nowhere near as cool. Ignoring it though would be a huge disadvantage. Review your personal auto insurance and credit card protection before the rental to avoid duplicating coverage and shelling out extra bucks.
Remember, business travel is not just about where you go but how you go. The trick to acing it lies in strategic preparation, flexible solutions, and a strong enough coffee. Happy hustling!