Business travel can sometimes feel like a strange alternate universe where the suitcases never unpack, and airplane food becomes a primary source of nourishment. But, it doesn’t have to be this way. With some forethought and a splash of savvy planning, you can sail through your business travels almost as smoothly as your carry-on gliding down the TSA conveyor belt. I’m here to guide you on how to make your business travel experiences not just bearable, but enjoyable. Shall we?
1. Choosing the Right Airline
If you think all airlines are created equal, well, my frequent-flyer friend, you’re in for a bumpy ride. Investing some time in picking the right airline is the key to a stress-free travel experience. Airlines vary enormously in terms of customer service, baggage allowance, seating comfort, and in-flight amenities. While the sky-high prices of business class flights may make you shudder, it’s important to consider the added benefits like priority check-in, extra legroom, and more weight allowance that will reduce your travel headaches significantly. Make sure you join frequent flyer programs and use your miles smartly.
2. Mastering the Art of Packing
If you’re the business traveler who “packs” by throwing every piece of clothing you own into a suitcase, we need to talk. Packing light is crucial and anyone who tells you otherwise probably has a penthouse in Guilt Island. My golden rule is: lay out all the clothes you think you need, then cut it in half! One suit, two shirts, and a pair of shoes should do for a two-day trip. Remember to pack a set of casual clothes for the evenings. As much as you love your business attire, sometimes that tie can feel like it’s choking the life out of you.
3. Navigating Hotel Stays
When booking a hotel, location is king. The closer your hotel to your meeting or conference site, the less time you’ll spend commuting, and the more time you’ll have for important things…like sleep. Business travelers can benefit from booking hotels that offer a 24-hour service desk, Wi-Fi, in-room working desk, and laundry services. Staying loyal to a particular hotel chain can get you perks, points and major kudos in the traveler society.
4. Car Rentals: To Own or Not to Own
For business travelers, renting a car can be a boon or a bane. I’d recommend it if your travel plans involve visiting multiple clients across the town, or if good public transportation is wishful thinking in your destination city. But weigh your options, note the rental costs, and billable kilometers, sometimes a taxi fare might be cheaper. And, remember, every rented car should come with a GPS, otherwise, you might find yourself in a “Lost in Translation” scenario.
5. Dining Out: A Delicate Dance
Trying local cuisine can be thrilling – nothing screams adventure like chomping down an unfamiliar dish. But for a business traveler, it can be a dance with gastric distress. It’s a good idea to stick to “safe” foods, and gradually introduce local favorites into your meals. Use apps to find highly rated restaurants that cater for business needs. Remember to keep all your food receipts, your accountant will love you for it.
Business travel doesn’t have to be all about jet lag, tasteless food, and sleeping in unfamiliar beds. With these clever tips, you can conquer the travel world like a boss! Bon voyage!
