If you are preparing for business travel, you may be in a quandary about exactly what you need to do and why. After all, preparing for a business trip isn’t quite like preparing for a pleasure trip. A business trip could be just the same as going to work with the added complication of being out of your office! Here are a few ideas to help you plan for your business trip in a way that reduces stress, supports productivity, and leaves a little room for fun!
There are a few essentials everyone should have whenever they’re travelling. No matter where you’re going, make sure to bring your photo ID, preferably in more than one form, any medication that you frequently or infrequently need, and a small amount of cash. Everyone has their own personal needs, so think of what yours are before you travel.
When traveling by plane make sure you take every precaution you can to ensure smooth travels. You first want to make sure your luggage does not exceed the maximum weight requirements by the airlines. You also want to label all of your luggage so that there is no confusion with other passengers who have similar luggage to yours.
Call the airport ahead of time to receive your seat assignment. Without a seat assignment there is a chance that you might be bumped from a flight. If this happens, you could find yourself stuck in the terminal waiting for the next flight. This could take several hours.
Know the rules for your airline’s baggage check policy. Some airlines will make you go and claim your baggage and recheck it for connecting flights. Be aware of this so you can schedule flights accordingly. You do not want to get caught running across an airport to catch a flight because of baggage!
When you are traveling by plane, consider bringing bottled water and hand sanitizer in your carry-on bag. Sanitize your hands after you wash them in the plane’s bathroom and make sure to drink as much water as possible. Both of these things will help to keep you from getting sick. Also remember not to touch your face and not to get ice included with your drinks. The water on planes has a lot of bacteria.
When traveling, many times you will need a rental car. When you arrive to pick up your car, the agent will help you complete the rental process. You will be presented with a car rental agreement, be sure to read it thoroughly before signing it. Assure you know exactly what your liability is and exactly what you are paying for by renting the car. You should look over the car and if you see any defects make sure it is noted on the agreement.
Consider swapping souvenirs when you are traveling. Many people in other countries are interested in hats, shirts and a lot of other items that come from this country. If something catches your eye in a vendor’s stall, see if they would like to make a trade with you. You will also have the opportunity to talk to local people and create interesting stories for your friends and family back home.
Utilize the feature of a website to select a seat on a flight that is going to be comfortable for you. The longer the trip, the more important it is going to be to pay close attention to where you are seated during the flight. You should be able to take care of this quite easily at the time of booking the flight.
Try to avoid exchanging currency when you are in a new country. Check with your bank before you leave, and notify them you are traveling overseas. They will help you find the best way to purchase and also let you know the exchange rates for using your credit card or ATM overseas. Use a bank ATM whenever possible. Bank ATM’s tend to have better exchange rates and are generally less expensive than an exchange.
Try to avoid eating anywhere that has a great view of a local tourist attraction if you are on a tight budget. While the food and atmosphere may be great, it will be incredibly expensive. This is due to the fact that you are technically paying a premium price just for the view of the tourist attraction.
Find entertainment and attraction’s websites before you leave for your trip. In many cases you will get a better price on the admission and it will eliminate standing in long lines to buy your tickets when you are there. It will also assure that the event will not be sold out when you get there.
When traveling, a contact case can come in handy. You can fill these with a little gel or lotion so you do not have to bring the entire bottle with you.
When going on a trip it is important to gauge the length of your stay and compare it with what you are packing. If you are going to be flying this is especially important because many airlines now charge baggage fees. In order to avoid baggage fees try to fit everything in your carry on for a short trip.
If you want to save money while taking a vacation, find a house or condo to rent that has a kitchen. Doing this will allow you to bring your own groceries, or buy them at your destination. Having your own food will help you save money by not going out to eat for every meal, which can really break the bank.
So remember, avoiding rushing is the key to successful business travel. By planning your travel well ahead of your meetings and obligations, you will be able to save some money, relax and have a good time. See if you can take a day off before and after the trip to avoid feeling pressured and rushed. In this way, you will have a productive and enjoyable business trip.
