The Art of the Deal: Business Air Travel Tips
If there were awards for accumulating air miles, savvy business travelers would take them all. Indeed, hitting quotas and clinching deals aren’t their only badges of honor; navigating around grumpy gate agents, weather delays and long airport security lines with grace and style is quite an achievement as well.
1. Bag the Baggage
In the world of business air travel, time is money. Checking bags? Ain’t nobody got time for that! Your carry-on luggage is your best friend, but remember, it’s not about how much you can cram into it—it’s about packing smart. You can’t risk losing important items like business attire or your laptop, so keep those essentials with you.
2. Loyalty is King in the Skies
Hit those elite status tiers faster by sticking with one airline. Show some loyalty and reap the rewards: priority boarding, extra legroom, and cooperation when you need to switch flights, to name a few. Before you’ve even set foot on the plane, being an airline elite comes with significant perks that can make your trip somewhat more delightful.
3. Say ‘Hello’ to the Club Lounge
Business travel can often mean long hours at the airport. Club lounges provide not just comfy seats, but also power plugs, free Wi-Fi, good coffee, and some space for peace and quiet or a quick meeting. Many airlines offer day passes, so even if you’re not a high-flying silver member, you can still enjoy the benefits.
4. Always Check-In Online
While we’re talking about time-saving tips, let’s not forget the importance of checking in online. You can do it from the comfort of your own home, office, or even on the move. This saves you from unnecessary queuing at check-in desks and gives you more time to prepare for your travel.
5. Fast Track Your Way Through Security
Business class or not, airport security is the bane of every traveler. Luckily, you can beat the system just a little by enrolling in TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR. These investment-worthy programs grant you access to speedier security lanes and reduce your airport time substantially.
6. Stay Charged Up
Speed, efficiency, and dead gadgets don’t mix. Always keep your devices fully charged, carry a portable power bank, and keep an eye out for charging stations at the airport. After all, those emails won’t send themselves!
7. Stay Healthy Onboard
Did you know that flight cabins have ultra-dry air which can lead to dehydration? Stay hydrated and maintain your immune system by drinking water regularly and avoiding too much alcohol and caffeine. Airport food may not be Michelin-starred, but most now offer healthier options you can take onboard, so there’s no excuse to not eat well.
8. Layovers Can Be a Blessing
Rushing to capture connecting flights can be stressful. If you can’t avoid a layover, use it wisely; catch up on work, stretch your legs, or grab a decent meal. Hint: Some airport hotels also offer day rooms for a quick power-nap or shower.
9. Noise-Cancelling Headphones – A Godsend
Finally, but certainly not least, do yourself a favor and invest in a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Between chatty seatmates and engine sounds, peace is a rarity. However, with these, you can dive into your own quiet world to work, rest, and not lose your sanity.
In a nutshell, conquer business air travel with smart planning, efficiency and a couple of membership programs. Not every travel day will be perfectly smooth, but with these tips, you can navigate the occasional turbulence like the professional globetrotter you are!