tips for business travel

10 essential tips for the first time business traveler

Heading off on your first business trip and not sure how to prepare?

From packing like a pro to working and adapting to the local time — we've got the top business travel tips to help you master it all! These travel tips will help you save time and avoid the most common issues. Just sit back, relax and keep reading to get ready for the first of many business trips.

1. Pack like a pro

Start with proper carry-on luggage and take the time to pack light. Packing cubes and internal pockets can make all the difference for business travel. Bypass the lineups and head straight to your destination – you're on a roll! Read our packing personalities tips to find out which packing personality  you are.

Here are a few key tips for carry-on luggage:

• Good quality materials
• Lightweight
• Easy to maneuver (4 spin wheels are the best!)
• Security lock

2. Papers, please

As a first-time business traveler, you might be nervous about forgetting important documents. Let's do a quick review. For international travel, you need a current passport with at least six months until expiry.

And there's more. Do you need a visa or other authorizations? Do you have the correct type of visa for business travel? Starting in 2025, US passport holders traveling to Europe will need to apply for visa authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System ( ETIAS ).

There are many potential paperwork disasters on business trips, but lucky for you, your dedicated agent knows it all.

Check out the Traveler Resource Hub for more helpful information on travel visas.

3. Is your business travel covered?

Before you take to the skies, check business travel insurance off your to-do list. Whether it's a short trip or a long one, on a first business trip, we want to make sure you're covered.

Money may not buy happiness, but it can get you an annual policy – saving you time, money and many headaches later. One last thing: don't forget to scope out the risk landscape of your destination to make sure it's in policy. Questions? Your dedicated Travel Consultant is in the wings.

Ask about business travel insurance coverage for trip interruption and emergency medical treatment. Corporate Traveler offers a range of insurance products both for single-trip and multi-trip annual plans. Contact your Travel Manager for more information . 

4. Level up your airport experience

Airline lounges can reduce the stress of flying and lift you out of the chaos and noise of the main concourse. Step into peace and quiet, showers, healthy snacks and drinks for free (hello, morning mimosa!).

Business Class fares generally include lounge access, but some are available for a fee. Credit card rewards programs can also give you access to airport lounges. There is no better place to be if you're riding out flight delays or prepping for important business meetings.

If you're on a business trip during a busy time of year, this guide to airport survival for the holidays shares the top airport tips.

5. Going the distance

The carry-on bag is stowed and you're settling in. If you're on a business trip to a different time zone, try to eat and sleep during the flight based on the local time zone you're heading to. Body clocks are hard to reset, and it's better if you can start the transition mid-air.

While sleeping in Economy Class can be a challenge, earplugs and noise-canceling headphones may help. If your business meeting is crucial, upgrading to a Business Class fare could be the thing you need if your travel policy allows.  

For long-haul trips, make sure your member numbers are locked and loaded so you can maximize loyalty programs . Once you land, eat a meal, stay hydrated and move around a bit to beat jet lag.

6. Take advantage of tech

Apps exist for almost everything, and they can make your first business trip more relaxed, too. Keeping all of your travel itinerary together, finding a place for dinner, or translation apps are all at your fingertips.

We've selected the 9 best travel apps to help you plan ahead and stay organized while traveling. Get travel tips from other travelers and locals too!

7. Always ask about amenities

Global travel is a huge industry, and many operators are adopting sustainability programs. Small changes can make a big difference, especially on business trips.

It's now common for certain services and supplies to be on request at business travel hotels as part of efforts to reduce waste. Daily housekeeping, razors, lotions, and other amenities are still available, but they might not be stocked in the hotel room by default. Pack light and ask what's available when you check in.

What's the strangest perk we've seen? A full set of gym clothes and shoes to borrow while staying at a hotel.

8. Counting costs

A greasy burger or room service? Should you use a limousine, take a taxi, or use public transportation? Check with the boss before you travel on what counts as travel expenses rather than return to a chilly reception and a bill you have to pay.

Hold onto all your receipts and make a note on them if they're low on details, like a taxi ride.

9. Work smart and stay refreshed

It's easy to go from meetings to drinks to dinner to bed and repeat. It's important you keep a check on your mental and physical health while you travel. Jet lag can sneak up on you. The first day, you feel fine, and then, to your surprise, you wake up at 4 am every day. 

With the rising trend of digital nomads, business travelers have come up with new ways to find balance while on the road. A physical change of scenery can help.

Instead of working in the evening in your hotel room, why not answer emails in the lobby or patio of the hotel? Set a clear divide between work and travel, then your mind will be clearer, and you'll look and feel fresher.

10. Flawless first impressions

When you travel on business trips, you're representing your company and yourself. And your country. But a few travel tips can help you make a good impression. Know the local laws, be courteous and tip when needed.

Pro travel tip: watch what you eat and drink on a business trip. It may be fun to experiment on the deep fried delights from a street food vendor but why take the risk? Stick to bottled water in some destinations and avoid ice if you can.

Want to learn more? Subscribe to the CT newsletter   to get ready for your next business trip. 

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The ultimate guide to travelling for work: 35 best tips for business travellers

Before you travel…, 1. check your company’s business travel policy, 2. stick to carry-on bags only, 3. keep your essentials packed and ready to go in your suitcase, 4. keep your essentials handy when on the road, 5. pack both business attire and casual clothes, 6. keep security checks in mind when you pack, 7. make comfort a priority, 8. sign up for rewards programmes, 9. make sure you charge your electronic devices, 10. fly non-stop, 11. make use of airport lounges, 12. use a suit bag, 13. bring a power bank, 14. bring your (travel size) toiletries, 15. pack healthy snacks, 16. choose your plane seat wisely, 17. do your research on foreign business etiquette, 18. download helpful apps, 19. bring a power adapter, 20. check in beforehand, during your business trip…, 21. choose water, skip alcohol, 22. if you have a meeting shortly after landing and need to be fresh, try drinking coffee two hours before the meeting, 23. layover tip: take the time to connect, 24. stretch, 25. adapt to meal times as soon as possible, 26. beat jet lag with exercise, 27. don’t be tempted to sleep as soon as you arrive, 28. try to stick to your most important daily routines, 29. take pictures of all your receipts, 30. store your receipts properly, 31. use a firewall when using public internet, 32. there are alternatives to working in your hotel room, after your business trip…, 33. don’t forget to report your expenses, 34. send thank you emails, 35. leave reviews, did you find this article useful.

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17 Incredibly Useful Business Travel Tips from a Frequent Traveler

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17 Business Travel Tips You Need to Know

After several months of traveling every week for work, I’ve picked up some very helpful business travel tips that make traveling for work easy and enjoyable.

Whether you’re a consultant like me and you travel for work every week, or you just take occasional business trips, these tips will help you improve your business travel experience.

More of my favorite travel tips and hacks:

• 15 Extremely Helpful Airport Tips
• 15 Tips for Long Haul Flights
• How to Stay Healthy While Traveling

Best Business Travel Tips Summarized

Low on time? Here’s a quick summary of the business travel tips below!

• Travel with a carry-on only. It saves you time and hassle at the airport.
• Invest in good luggage. You don’t need the most expensive brand name out there, but get something that’s good quality and will last a long time.
• Pack portable and spare chargers. You don’t want your phone or laptop to die while traveling.
• Pack wrinkle release spray. A game changer for making your work clothes look perfect without needing to break out the ironing board.
• Stick with a single loyalty program. You’ll rack up airline and hotel points and status faster.
• Check to see if you can join any status challenges. Corporate status challenges allow you to earn airline and hotel status much faster than you normally can.
• Download airline/hotel apps. Stay organized and save time with apps!
• Make the most of rideshare apps. You can earn rewards from Uber/Lyft and also combine them with other travel loyalty programs.
• Keep an extra set of travel essentials. One to have at home, one to always have on the road.
• Get Global Entry/TSA Precheck. The best $100 you will ever spend.
• Get airport lounge access. If you’ll be spending a lot of time in airports, might as well enjoy it!
• Remember to pack casual clothes. Pack clothes you can wear to work out wear for a casual dinner or exploring the city after work.
• Pack earplugs. The key to getting a good night’s sleep at the hotel.
• Note your preferences on your travel profiles. Things like whether you prefer an aisle or window seat or a high or low floor at the hotel.
• Simplify expenses. Snap a photo of all your receipts using an app like Expensify and set aside a designated time to file your expense reports.
• Prepare the night before. Avoid early morning stress by creating a pre-trip routine.

1. Travel with a carry-on only.

If you’re in consulting like me, you’re probably only traveling Monday morning through Thursday night in which case you really don’t need anything larger than a carry-on suitcase!

Packing in a carry-on saves so much time when you arrive at your destination because you don’t have to wait for your checked luggage to come out (or worry about it getting lost.)

2. Invest in good luggage.

You don’t need to get the most expensive or trendiest luggage, but investing in good quality luggage is a must for business travelers.

I travel with a carry-on suitcase and a large Longchamp tote bag. When choosing a carry-on suitcase, be sure to get one with spinner wheels (like  this one. ) Some business travelers also like to get a carry-on suitcase that has a laptop compartment (like  this one. )

Here are more of the top-rated suitcases for business travelers.

3. Pack portable and spare chargers.

A portable cellphone charger ( this is the one I use ) is one of my top travel essentials, and it comes in handy when traveling for work too.

I also pack a spare charger for my phone and laptop which I keep in my work luggage at all times.

4. Pack wrinkle release spray.

Wrinkle release spray is a lifesaver for business travelers!

It’s perfect for those mornings where you want to smooth out a wrinkled dress shirt but don’t want to go through the whole process of setting up the ironing board in your hotel room and pressing it.

5. Stick with a single loyalty program.

The best way to rack up airline miles and hotel points is by choosing one loyalty program and sticking with it. 

Once you reach status with an airline or hotel, you get access to so many perks like priority boarding/check-in, complimentary upgrades, bonus miles and points, and more.

This also applies to other travel loyalty programs, like rental car companies and train lines.

6. Check to see if you can join any status challenges.

A lot of companies have “status challenges” going on with airlines and hotels. This is especially common in the consulting industry.

When you join a status challenge, you will be able to earn expedited status with an airline or hotel by completing a certain number of trips/stays in a specific timeframe (usually three to six months.)

This is how I was able to earn Gold Medallion status with Delta, Platinum status with Marriott, and Gold status with Hilton within just a few months!

7. Download airline/hotel apps.

Downloading airline and hotel apps on your phone will save you a ton of time.

Most airline apps allow you to check in for your flight, make/change your seat selection, and get a mobile boarding pass so you don’t have to print one at home or at the airport.

Similarly, hotel apps can save you time and some even offer a mobile check-in and mobile key so you can go straight to your room when you get to the hotel!

8. Make the most of rideshare apps.

Unless you are getting a rental car, you’ll probably be taking a lot of Ubers/Lyfts when traveling for work. Both of these rideshare apps have special programs for business travelers that you can sign up for and earn rewards.

You can also link your other loyalty accounts – for example, Delta and Lyft have a partnership where you earn Delta SkyMiles for every dollar you spend on Lyft!

9. Keep an extra set of travel essentials.

Save time packing and ensure you don’t forget anything by having a designated business travel toiletries case to leave in your suitcase between trips.

This can contain items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, a comb, deodorant, earplugs, and any other items you may need for traveling.

10. Get Global Entry/TSA Precheck.

Getting Global Entry (which includes TSA Precheck) has been a lifesaver. It has saved me so much time and hassle at the airport. My company covered the $100 fee, but it’s worth paying for out of pocket if yours doesn’t. Some travel credit cards will also cover the fee for you.

With TSA Precheck, you get to skip the general security line and go through an expedited line where you don’t have to remove your shoes or take electronics out of your suitcase. If you’re traveling internationally, you can go through an expedited customs line upon arriving back in the US.

At just $100 and lasting for five years, Global Entry is well worth it for business travelers.

11. Get airport lounge access.

This is one thing I don’t have but wish I did!

If you’ll be traveling frequently for work, it may be worth it to you to pay for airport lounge access (or see if your company will pay for it!)

This is another thing that some travel credit cards cover. You can also get airport lounge access when you reach a certain status level with airlines.

12. Remember to pack casual clothes.

One mistake I made on one of my first business trips was only packing work clothes.

I wanted to use the hotel gym one night, but I didn’t have any workout clothes or sneakers to wear. So be sure to pack one or two casual outfits to wear if you go explore or have a casual dinner or use the gym in the evenings after work.

13. Pack earplugs.

I sleep with earplugs every night, but even if you don’t sleep with them at home they can be extremely helpful when traveling.

Hotel rooms can get super noisy at night. Between the air conditioner/heater switching itself on and off, the sounds of other guests, and other annoying noises, you might find it hard to get a good night’s sleep. A good pair of earplugs helps a ton.

14. Note your preferences on your travel profiles.

If you download airline/hotels apps (see Tip #7 above) most of them will have a place for you to update your profile with your travel preferences. Things like whether you prefer a window or aisle seat on airplanes, or a high or low floor at the hotel.

You should also update your travel preferences with your company’s travel booking platform or travel agency, if your company uses one.

15. Simplify expenses.

If you’re traveling for business, you are probably responsible for tracking and submitting your expenses in a timely manner. This can be VERY important if you are putting expenses on your personal credit card and need to be reimbursed by your company.

Some companies require you to save your receipts. If that’s the case for you, download an app like Expensify or Receiptmate to keep track of all your receipts by snapping a quick photo of them.

Also, set a recurring reminder on your phone for when you need to complete your expense reports so you never get behind on them!

16. Prepare the night before.

Avoid adding to the stress of early morning travel days to get everything ready by packing for your trip the night before you leave.

Go ahead and take care of anything that needs to be done before you’ll be gone for the week so when Monday morning rolls around, you aren’t stressed out trying to get anything done.

17. Make time for fun.

One of the best things you can do when traveling for work is making time for fun!

So many people take business travel for granted, but I look as it as a mini-vacation and a way to explore a new destination (for free!)

Yes, your main focus is work and not leisure, but there are plenty of fun things you can do in the evenings after work (or in the mornings before!) Check out cool restaurants instead of just ordering room service at your hotel, go see a local show, or take a nighttime walking tour.

All of these things are easy to incorporate and will make your business travels more fun.

I hope you found these business travel tips helpful!

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About Denise Cruz

Denise is a marketing executive who escaped corporate to travel the world… twice. A Brazilian native living in the U.S., she’s lived in 4 countries and visited 35+ others. After side-hustling her way to financial independence, she curates solo destination guides, slow travel tips, and travel blogging advice on Wander Her Way. When she’s not on the road, you can find her in Miami with her dog Finnegan.

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Introduction

Traveling for business is an all-encompassing enterprise these days, for the road warriors and novice business travelers alike. Many, without travel policies to work off, are on their own. That’s a good thing, because it means more opportunities to personalize your trips— but this can also be quite daunting.

Consider this your all-encompassing guide to help make business travel seamless and stress-free, from what apps and podcasts to download and shoes to wear, to what to do during downtime at the airport, how to make your hotel room feel more like home, and much more.

Read on to make the most of your next business trip, and don’t forget to subscribe to get the latest news and stories from BusinessTravel.com

What Type Of Business Traveler Are You?

The Planner

Planners like to have their itineraries locked in place, but they should add flexibility when applicable. Your coworkers will appreciate it, and it could give you peace of mind should your all-important plans change. 

The Worrier

Worrier need not be a negative label, especially if you offset your travel anxiety with structured plans. Worriers should outline clear, easy goals to hit and map out what they can and can’t control. Talk to the planners and road warriors for more advice. 

The Homebody

Homebodies should do their best to mimic home settings on the road: Unpack right away, bring trinkets, and pack your own coffee. While travel may never be your thing entirely, the more you can personalize it to match your home preferences, the more you’ll enjoy it. 

Young professionals are ambitious, but they like guidance. If you’re a rookie, poll your colleagues with more travel experience to get their thoughts on nailing a business trip. You’ll be thankful and will build confidence to tackle the next one on your own. 

The Road Warrior

Adding a few tricks—such as finding off-the-beaten-path restaurants or traversing the city by bike or scooter—can break up the monotony of travel for even the most weary road warriors.

For a more in-depth breakdown of business traveler types, check out What Kind Of Business Traveler Are You?

Before You Depart, Do These Three Things

1. set goals.

Everything from unpacking luggage to reading an article specific to your industry can make you feel productive on a trip, so it’s a good practice to write these goals down—no matter how small—and cross them off as you complete them. 

2. Map Your Preferences

Plan a business trip around your preferences to create an environment you’re comfortable working in on the road. From hotel amenities, to rental car choice, to flight times, there’s flexibility at almost every stop of business travel. 

3. Have A Packing Plan

Packing efficiently isn’t just about fitting everything into a carry-on or including the right - sized toiletries. It’s about optimizing the space to help you get the most out of your business trip.

Learn more about these helpful pre-trip protocols. Read 3 Quick Tips To Prepare For Your Next Business Trip

No Business Travel Policy? No Problem

1. stick to one itinerary.

Being productive on the road starts with organization. Either manually or with the aid of an app, keep the details of your trip in one place. This way, when you want to know the check-out time for the hotel in reference to your departing flight, you can do so with one touch rather than two or three. 

2. Build Points That Work For You

Unbridled business travelers should explore loyalty programs that work best for them. You will find you can use your travel for work to subsidize your personal vacations. Beyond credit cards and hotels, Uber, Lyft and Airbnb all now have business offerings. 

3. Never Collect Receipts Again

There are plenty of apps on the market with both free and subscription offerings for keeping track of business travel expenses . Two apps for expensing business travel stand out in the field: Expensify and Zoho. While keeping physical receipts is still a good practice, these make tracking expenses a breeze. 

4. Plan & Debrief

Planning meetings, especially those that take place away from the office, can go a long way in easing the burden of traveling, while setting clear goals for the trip. When you return, debrief with your colleagues and chart your likes and dislikes to build up a reference for future travels.

Take a deeper dive into how to better organize your next business trip with this useful checklist: Best Practices For Managing Business Travel Without A Travel Policy

Podcasts That’ll Make You Smarter For Your Next Business Trip

Masters of scale with reid hoffman.

By presenting his theories and bringing on experts to discuss — and often challenge — them , entrepreneur Rich Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn, levels himself with his audience. You’ll take away business advice and hear firsthand that there’s always more to learn.

• Where You Can Get It: Apple Podcasts | Google Play Music

Planet Money by NPR

What’s going on in the economy? How does it affect your business? Stay up-to-date with these quick-hit episodes that cover current events or offer retrospectives on some of the most transformative economic events in world history.

• Where You Can Get It: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

The EntreLeadership Podcast

Educational and inspirational, the EntreLeadership Podcast will leave you thinking— in a good way . Take in the lessons and apply them to your everyday life. There’s more than just business here. 

TED Talks Daily

These are tailor-made for the business traveler. Have a short layover? Want to learn as you pack? Need a soundtrack for your morning hotel routine? Throw on an episode of TED Talks Daily and learn on the fly. 

Stuff You Should Know

Well, the “should” can be misleading. Should you really know how a Ouija b oard works? Probably not, but now you’re curious, and you can find out on a spooky episode of this podcast. It’s the podcast made to defeat awkward silences. 

Ologies with Alie Ward

The name says it all. Alie Ward takes a comedic approach to all the ologies, the studies of whatever you can think of. L earn about vexillology (flags), saurology (lizards), or acarology (ticks), and share the info with whomever will listen.

Learn more about these incredible podcasts, and where you can get them, with this helpful guide: 12 Must-Listen Podcasts For Your Next Business Trip

There’s An App For That

Business travelers often need to adjust on the fly in unfamiliar territories. Useful apps, therefore, play a crucial role in their work lives. Here are some common problems for business travelers and apps that provide solutions.

“I’d like to find a lounge at an airport”

Check out LoungeBuddy , which enables you to see what lounges you have access to. If you have an American Express card, you can purchase time at participating lounges as well. 

• Availability:   Apple
• Cost:   Free

“Can public transportation get me to my destination?”

Download Transit , an app that charts public transportation and suggests routes in 104 cities across the United States. 

• Availability:   Apple   |   Android

“I need to track my expenses, but I don’t want to bring home receipts”

Road warriors will find Expensify indispensable. Take pictures of your receipts and upload the details. It also includes integration with popular accounting programs. Expensify was named “The Best Business Travel App” by Business Insider . 

• Cost:   Free (Limited) | Subscriptions: Starting at $4.99/month

“I’d like to maintain my health routine on the road ”

With HabitMinder , you can set three fitness goals (with the free version) and track your progress hitting them each day. Goals include physical activities, like walking and stretching, to good habits, like hydrating and eating healthy. 

• Cost:   Free | Premium Subscription: $.99/month

Ready for more recommendations? Check out 14 Apps To Consider Before Your Next Business Trip

Versatile Shoes You Need (That Fit Your Budget)

A shoe that’s made for walking and looks good with every outfit is essential for business travelers. Here are four styles to check out, all less than $150.

Sperry Authentic Original 

Easy to slip on? Check. Formal look with a casual feel? Check. Great in indoor and outdoor settings? Check. The Sperry Authentic Original expands any business traveler’s wardrobe. Get a pair and thank us later. 

Nike SB Zoom Bruin 

The Nike SB Zoom Bruin combines the comfort and cool of skate shoes with the look of something a little more formal. You’ll feel good rocking them with board shorts or jeans and a blazer. The smaller swoosh hints at the balance the sneaker giant has found with its skateboarding collection: undoubtedly Nike but a little more understated. 

Rothy’s The Point

A shoe that comes in 23 colors is always green. That’s because the company makes one of its signature models from 100% recycled plastic bottles. It’s a 21st-century concept that you’ll love: a great looking shoe that helps the environment. 

Dr. Scholl’s

In an ironic twist, not many people associate a company built on comfort with having a great selection of shoes. But here we are. Dr. Scholl’s has a number of offerings that fit the casually formal description with the Freestep Laceup Sneaker (for men and women) standing out. 

Discover more incredible footwear for your next business excursion with this in-depth guide: 12 Shoes Business Travelers Will Love

Airport Tips For The Business Traveler

1. time is of the essence.

Stick to carry-on luggage. Sign up for TSA Pre-Check. Check in online rather than at the airport. And, if you don’t have TSA Pre-Check, know which security lines tend to be the longest, especially in airports where you can walk between terminals once cleared.  

2. Count Your Steps

Staying active in the airport is relatively easy for any traveler: choose the stairs over the escalator; skip all moving walkways; if time permits, walk the length of the terminal or explore other areas of the airport.

3. Whet Your Appetite

If time constraints limit your ability to explore a city’s food and drink scene, don’t worry. More and more airports are bringing local favorites — chains and dives alike — to their terminals, allowing travelers to get their fill on the go. 

4. Flag Down That Taxi

While Uber and Lyft offer business plans, they aren’t always the most reliable transportation options to save on time. From airports, taxis are often the most efficient in this regard.

For a more comprehensive breakdown of essential airport tips, check out 5 Airport Tips For Business Travelers

Make Your Hotel Feel Like Home

1. make use of the dressers & closet.

You’ll feel organized from the start, setting the tone for the rest of your trip. Plus, getting your clothes out of your luggage early will help keep them from wrinkling and may save you time with the iron. 

2. Brew Your Own Cup Of Joe

Nothing will make you feel at home like the smell of your favorite coffee brewing early in the morning. The routine will put your day in motion while making you feel accomplished. A bonus: Should you adventure out to sample local brews, you’ll have something to measure new flavors against. 

3. That’s Your Desk Now

Organizing your clothes is one important step to making your hotel feel like home. Organizing your work materials is another. By plugging in your laptop at the desk, you’ll have a ready-made workspace to turn to should you retire to your room with tasks still left to complete. 

4. Block Out The Noise, Literally

Sleeping on the road in a bustling town isn’t the easiest thing. While companies like Bose produce wireless sleepbuds that play soothing sounds, you can get a similar effect by listening to sleep-aid stations on Spotify or Pandora. Learn to set the sleep timer on your phone: In the clock app, set a timer and change “When Timer Ends” to “Stop Playing.”

Learn more useful advice on how to make your hotel room match the comforts of home with this in-depth post: 7 Hotel Tips For The Business Traveler

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The Ultimate List of Business Travel Tips

32 Business Travel Tips

The life of a business traveler is less glamorous than perceived. In addition to the stress that comes with travel, business travelers face many health risks as a result of frequent travel. Trying to figure out how to make business travel better? We have rounded up the most comprehensive list of business travel tips from start to finish. Following these tips may not eliminate all of the health risks caused by frequent travel, but it will make your next trip less stressful.

Before You Travel

• See Related: How to Sign Up for TSA Pre-Check
• Sign up for Global Entry. If you travel internationally, invest in Global Entry. Global Entry provides the same benefits at TSA Pre-Check, PLUS expedited processing at Customs and Border Patrol at airports upon arrival into the US. The cost for Global Entry is $100.
• Join travel loyalty programs. Before your trip make sure you join the loyalty program for each brand you will encounter during your trip. Update your reservations with your loyalty information. Many hotels offer perks such as free wifi to loyalty members (even during your first stay!).
• Be a Loyal Traveler: As much as possible, fly on the same airline, rent a car with the same rental company, and stay with the same hotel brand. Have a back-up brand, and use that anytime you can’t travel with your preferred brand.
• See related: 5 Reasons to Find an Airport Lounge During your Layover
• Charge Up: Charge all electronics 100% before you leave for the airport. You never know if you will have access to an outlet at the airport or in-flight.
• Print Your Itinerary: Make sure you have your travel information available someplace besides your phone. The thought is cringe-worthy, but your phone could easily get lost or break during travel.
• Out of Office : Set your out of office reminder, even if you are replying to email, let your recipients know the response may be delayed. This will keep your stress down and set expectations for the recipients.

Apps to Download Before Your Business Trip

• TripIt:   TripIt is a travel management app that builds and tracks your travel itinerary. The paid version ($49/ year) has many other features including flight tracking, gate change notifications, and the ability to find alternative flights.
• Expense Report App : There are a number of apps that provide expense reports. You take a photo of the receipt and upload it in the app. Forget worrying about losing your receipts! And you can avoid dealing with the dreaded mountain of receipts at the end of the month.
• Ridesharing Apps : Download both Uber and Lyft and create accounts with both before your trip. Some places only have service from one (such as the Orlando MCO airport- Uber only!). If you prefer to take a taxi, or simply want whichever services can arrive the fastest, also download a taxi app such as Curb.
• Airline App : Download your airline’s app so you can access your mobile boarding pass, gate information, and more!
• Rental Car App : Download your rental car agency’s app. Many allow you to check-in online and skip the counter when you arrive.
• Hotel App : Download the app for your hotel to find your reservation information. Many hotels offer mobile check-in (huge time saver during busy check-in times. And, the ultimate hotel app bonus is using the app to access your digital key (meaning you can head straight to your room with even going near the registration desk).
• OpenTable : OpenTable will make it easy to find quality restaurants, make reservations, and entertain clients during your trip.
• Best Apps to Manage Life at Home on the Road
• 5 Meditation Apps for Travelers
• Best Apps for the Airport

Business Travel Packing Tips

• Carry-on vs Checking Luggage : Business travelers tend to prefer to carry-on only, especially for shorter trips. This reduces the change of lost luggage and saves time when you arrive. Some frequent travelers hate lugging luggage through the airport and always check a bag. Personally, I think carry-on the way to go, even for long trips. If you are traveling for more than five days, plan on getting your dry cleaning done at your hotel or locally to save luggage space.
• Invest in Luggage : After you figure out if you will be a “carry-on only” or “check only” type of business traveler, invest in a lightweight, durable piece of luggage that has a warranty. The same goes for a laptop bag. Whether you choose a shoulder bag or backpack, make sure it has a lot of padding and distributes weight evenly. You do not want your luggage breaking in the middle of an airport.
• Rolling vs Folding : This is the age old packing debate. Personally, I am a huge fan of rolling, unless I am using packing cubes, in which case I will roll and fold, depending on what the clothing is.  It seems the best method  for most travelers is a combination of both.
• Pack Minimally : Do not pack more than you need. Plan your outfits before your leave. Document each outfit by taking a photo and pack. Planning outfits ahead will also make sure you do not pack two black sweaters or two black jackets. Coordinate outfit colors with shoes to pack minimal pairs of shoes.
• Make a Packing List : Create a master packing list and use it for every trip. I have one in my phone memo. This ensures I don’t forget my laptop charger (it has happened), make-up bag (also happened), and other essentials that I am using up until I head to the airport.
• Buy Duplicates and Leave Them in Your Luggage : Once you take a few trips, you will see what you always need to travel with. Identify these items and buy one of each for your travel bag. Leave those items in the bag when you get home. A few items that never leave my travel bag include headphones, phone charger, lint roller, and all liquid toiletries.
• Pack Workout Clothes : If you pack the clothes you will have one less excuse to skip your workout. Working out reduces jet lag, stress, and has many other benefits for business travelers.

Healthy Business Travel Tips

• Reduce or Eliminate Alcohol Consumption : On your day of travel, avoid drinking any alcohol. Drinking in-flight will cause you to be dehydrated and increase jet lag. Once you arrive, keep the alcohol to a minimum. In addition to disrupting your sleep, alcohol will pack on unnecessary calories that add up over time.
• Skip Free Treats : The more frequently you travel, the more perks you will receive. Often these perks include free food and usually the food is not healthy (like the famous DoubleTree chocolate chip cookies upon check-in). Just like alcohol, these empty calories will add up.
• See Related: 10 Tips for Eating Healthier During Business Travel
• See Related: 30 Healthy Travel Snacks for Flying
• Exercise : Whether you hit the hotel gym, workout in your room, or take a walk to explore the area you are visiting, be active!! There are many benefits of exercise for business travelers, including stress reduction, increased productivity and decreased jet lag.

More Business Travel Tips

• Customize Your Travel Schedule : If you are an early riser, enjoy one more night of sleep in your own bed and take an early flight. Or, if you like to be on location in advance, fly in the night before and get situated in your hotel.
• Reap Your Rewards : You earned the points and miles, take time off to enjoy them! Find out what your points are worth and cash them in for some fun. Bleisure travel (adding a few vacation days onto your business trip) is a great way to vacation without taking as much time off.
• Stay Organized : Keep your laptop bag and luggage organized. This includes cords, medications, papers, and anything else that has a tendency to get tossed into the bag. The more organized your bag, the less likely you are to lose or forget something along the way. Packing cubes, plastic bags, cord organizers, and smaller travel bags are all useful tools to stay organized.
• See Related: Travel Friendly Electronics
• Keep Your Routine : As much as possible, follow your home routine on the road. Traveling is stressful enough, don’t make it worse. If you workout in the morning at home, workout in the morning during travel. If you eat breakfast before work at home, eat breakfast before you leave the hotel. Keep your bedtime routine as well. If you drink tea before bed, bring tea and have some before bed. Following your night-time routine will improve your quality of sleep on the road.

What are your best business travel tips? Please comment below!

Business Travel Life

Business Travel Life is an online resource supporting the road warrior lifestyle. We give business travelers the tools they need to maintain their wellness and productivity when traveling. The topics we cover include business travel tips, travel workouts, healthy travel hacks, travel products, general travel tips, and industry trends. Our goal is to make business travel a healthier experience – and to make healthy travel practices more accessible to all road warriors.

Kristina Portillo, CPT, MS

Kristina is the founder of Business Travel Life. Her love of fitness and travel unified to create a resource for business travelers and road warriors who want to take a healthier approach to business travel. She has traveled for business on and off for the past eight years. Kristina received a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Colorado State University and received her Bachelors of Arts in Business Marketing from Chaminade University of Honolulu.

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Hi Kristina Portillo, I felt this blog was a tip for every corporate traveller. Thanks for sharing it, I personally feel that as a corporate traveller using Corporate and Business travel service providers would further reduce the stress, and would be so easy to handle.

Very nice tips. The getaway away from the usual rat race and the stress of your daily routine and work is good for employees.

Thanks for your fantastic travel tips. It really amazed everyone.

Great tips! Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

Thank you for the worthwhile travel tips that you have shared. I like the articles especially the packing tips. It is very informative.

So glad you enjoyed the business travel tips!

I’m always surprised that people use so little vacation. I encourage my team members to use their time because they earned it. And I set a good example by using all my days! Thanks for sharing Great article!

I like this article very much, it has some great tips that helps a business traveler a lot.

Hi Kristina, I am glad that I came across this blog and I will definitely share this blog with others who are going for a business trip. These are some best and helpful corporate travel tips which will help us a lot. Thank you for the worthwhile travel tips that you have shared and do keep up the good work!!

That’s a great point to customize your travel based on what you like. For example, take into account whether you’re an early riser. My boss is looking at going on a business trip in a few weeks. To make sure the trip is awesome we’ll have to follow these tips as well as look for luxury travel concierges.

Thank you for these wonderful advices. I will certainly use it in practice.

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11 Business Travel Tips From Frequent Business Travelers

May 17, 2024

From figuring out what to pack to scheduling an itinerary,, preparing for a business trip can be more stressful and overwhelming than actually going on the trip itself.

Alleviating the pain of business travel begins with your preparation. Experienced business travelers begin preparing for trips days before they leave to ensure they are able to put their best work forward while conducting business on the road.

11 business travel tips from frequent business travelers

We surveyed leaders in the business travel industry to get their takes on how to best prepare for a business trip. They offered some insightful commentary that should quell your worries regarding any business travel on your horizon.

1. Never run out of juice

“Bring a portable battery (power bank) to recharge your cell phone, especially if you're going to be on a plane for a long time. Make sure it's in your carry-on luggage so you can use it on the plane. You don't want to risk a dead phone when you need it most!”

- Miguel A. Suro, Miami attorney and lifestyle writer at The Rich Miser 

“I attended a marketing conference a couple of years ago and neglected to pack a portable charger. I didn't realize how quickly I would drain through my phone's battery while I used the event app and live-tweeted from conference sessions. While several of the expo booths had chargers available, none of them worked with my phone, so I ended up needing to walk back to my hotel for my charger and wait there for it to regain battery life, missing a couple of valuable sessions in the process.”

- Kathryn Hawkins, principal, Eucalypt Media

2. Carry on the essentials

“The first and only key is to make sure everything fits in a carry on, like a great soft tote bag to carry extras, including your computer or tablet. Everything should be able to be folded and if your carry on has a place for suits, even better. Usually, three changes max is enough with two or three shirts. One pair of shoes to go to all meetings and another for travel. Cosmetics, toiletries, etc. can be in your suitcase or tote bag depending on how much room there is. I have gone all over the world like this and it works.”

3. Avoid shipping essential materials

“Never ship your business cards with any other collateral you might be shipping as you never know where the shipment will end up or how long customs will retain the package, etc. I once showed up to a trade show in Berlin and I had a small stack of cards with me and my assistant had shipped over a new box of cards, along with brochures, a little later (after the new order of biz cards had arrived.) Well, we never saw that box and I had to be super stingy with my cards, to the point it was quite embarrassing!”

4. Look into the benefits of frequent travel

“If you find yourself traveling by air for business on a regular basis, a travel rewards credit card could prove advantageous by making your journeys far more comfortable as well as netting you substantial savings.

When choosing a travel credit card for business, contemplate what kind of traveler you are. If you’re someone who regularly finds themselves sitting in airports, a high-tier, high annual fee credit card could bring you substantial value in the way of lounge benefits, expedited screening, steep rewards, and more. Access to such amenities will make business travel less stressful and far more comfortable. If you are someone who travels by air infrequently, a travel card with a high-annual fee will likely not be worth the cost.”

5. Don’t check a bag on your flight

“Don’t check a bag. Aside from the fact that bags can be lost, the time spent checking bags and waiting at baggage claim is a huge waste. It’s important to be efficient on business trips, and you can lose so much time if you check bags. Also, if you don’t have to wait for a bag, you can get way ahead of everyone who does, thereby avoiding long customs lines (if traveling internationally).”

6. Be smart about hotel location

“Book a hotel close to the client or business location to avoid early morning commutes, traffic delays, etc. Before booking, try asking your client if they have a preferred hotel in the city and if there's a discount that you’d be able to use.”

7. Prepare for international travel smartly

“If it is a longer trip, make sure you have an international driving license. You never know when you may need to hire or borrow a car. Check your documents the night before you fly, such as your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and tickets. You can usually check these via travel management software if you booked through work.

I always print them, as not every international airport allows you to scan from your phone. If necessary, make sure you have the hotel address written in the local language of your destination.”

8. Make a detailed itinerary

“Put together a schedule that includes your flight, your meetings, and the time you're expected to arrive at the hotel. Budget extra time to visit something fun at your destination. You'll regret missing the opportunity later on.

Share your itinerary with a friend or family member that you plan to stay in touch with. You can contact them if you lose information, and they will know where you're meant to be if your phone goes silent.”

TIP: Traveling to a unique destination and looking to add some personal time onto your trip? Check out our guide to bleisure travel!

9. Make sure you eat enough

“Even on the road, you have to keep your belly filled. Having been stuck waiting unexpectedly at airports and on airplanes, and having arrived at hotel rooms at haunting hours or found the only time to eat is in a taxi between meetings, I always pack a filling emergency snack.

That typically means a few energy bars. They are the most compact food that doesn’t make a mess and can be stuffed into a pocket. They are not the nutritional nirvana, but they are filling. And who can eat a salad in a taxi anyway?”

10. Find the right workspace

“If you’re one of those people who doesn’t get car sick, then lucky you! That means you have found some time while traveling to prepare for meetings and get things in order. Otherwise, make use of your hotel facilities in order to get a nice space to think. Of course, you can always use your hotel room, but many hotels have a business center or lobby as well that could be good for being productive. Or, feel free to explore the new city and find a cute coffee shop or park to do your work.”

11. Double check the dress code

“Always find out in advance where you may be visiting while you’re on your trip. I traveled to Hong Kong once with a very casual start-up company who had no dress code. The last thing I expected was to end up in a very dressy hotel restaurant where they had to make special dispensation for me to wear my shorts and flip-flops!”

Time to hit the road

With these tips in tow, you’ll be able to travel for work with the peace of mind that you’re equipped to handle any unforeseen issues. The ultimate goal of any business trip is to perform at your peak when conducting your business obligations, and a failure to prepare to perform your best on a trip is preparing to fail. If you're still overwhelmed, maybe it's time to look into hiring a travel management company ?

Business trips require a lot of moving parts. Read up on the 8 most common business trip mistakes to better prepare you for your upcoming trip! 

Rob is a former content associate at G2. Originally from New Jersey, he previously worked at an NYC-based business travel startup. (he/him/his)

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The best 30 business travel tips for your next corporate adventure

Traveling for business can be a double-edged sword. For some, it’s an exciting opportunity to mix work with a dash of exploration. But without the proper preparation and tools, it can sometimes feel more like a test of endurance than an adventure.

Let’s explore 30 business travel tips to help you transform your travel experiences — everything from planning your trip to reimbursing expenses when you’ve made it back home.

1. Look over your company’s travel policies

Before you book your flights and begin packing your most Instagrammable travel outfits, make sure you're well-acquainted with your company's travel guidelines. Every organization has its own set of rules and regulations, from flight class preferences and hotel tiers to per diem allowances and ground transportation options. Overlooking these can lead to out-of-pocket expenses or reimbursement delays. 

2. Plan ahead

Last-minute travel arrangements are never a great idea. Not only do they often result in higher costs, but they can also lead to less desirable flight schedules, accommodation options, and even the risk of unavailability — not to mention hasty planning often results in oversights, causing avoidable stress or disruptions. 

Leveraging tools like Expensify Travel can significantly simplify your planning process. Instead of painstakingly scouring the web and cross-referencing airfare and hotel costs, you can sit back and let Expensify take the lead. We'll handle booking flights and accommodations, ensuring they align with both your personal preferences and your company's policies.

3. Take advantage of rewards programs

If you're jetting off for business, don't miss out on the potential perks. Consider enrolling in frequent flier and hotel loyalty programs to maximize your savings and benefits — especially if you’re a frequent business traveler. Plus, you could get access to upgraded seats, discounted stays, or even free trips in the future. 

4. Use a corporate card

Let's talk about streamlining expenses. Booking flights, covering dinners, and other work-related expenses? Consolidate them onto one corporate card and watch your expense tracking simplify tenfold. It's not just about ease; it's about efficiency. 

Using the Expensify Card for business travel takes this a step further. With its real-time expense reporting and seamless integration with the Expensify platform, it ensures that all your spending is immediately categorized and documented. Say goodbye to post-trip receipt wrangling and hello to instant oversight and control over your business expenditures.

5. Fly non-stop when you can

When traveling for business, it's tempting to opt for those flights with layovers — often because they're a tad cheaper. But take a second to weigh the pros and cons. Direct flights may come with a slightly higher price tag, but they significantly reduce travel time and the fatigue that comes with hopping from one flight to another. 

Remember, time is money, and the hours saved with a non-stop flight can be better spent preparing for that big meeting or getting some well-deserved rest. So, when plotting out your travel itinerary, prioritize efficiency and consider flying direct.

6. Select your preferred airplane seat 

Ever spent hours in a cramped seat, sandwiched between two passengers, and thought, "I should've booked a better spot"? Well, when reserving your flight, don't just click and go. Take a moment to select a seat that caters to your needs. 

Whether you need that extra legroom to stretch out, prefer the window for a solid work session without interruptions, or want the aisle to make quick exits for your layovers, your seat choice can make all the difference in how you arrive — refreshed or frazzled.

7. Read up on your destination

Traveling abroad? Before you take off, it’s important to do a little homework. Research your destination, dive into the local customs, and maybe pick up a few phrases in the native language. It can go a long way in making a great first impression when stepping into the conference room. 

It’s also important to understand the local currency of your destination. When it comes to handling expenses in various currencies, tools like Expensify can save you a few headaches by helping you easily account for foreign currency when submitting expenses.

8. Send your itinerary to someone you trust

Let’s get into some business travel safety tips because when it comes to traveling, especially solo, safety should always come first. While your employer will likely have your itinerary, it's also a good idea to share your live location or travel details with a close friend or family member outside of work. This adds an extra layer of security that ensures someone's got an eye out for you, just in case.

9. Consider travel insurance

Better safe than sorry, right? Travel insurance isn't just for individual globetrotters; it's crucial for businesses, too. Whether facing lost luggage, unexpected health issues, trip cancellations, or even logistical complications from multiple employees traveling at one time, having the right coverage safeguards against unexpected hitches and unforeseen expenses. 

Check and see if your credit card provides coverage for these unexpected issues or if your company already provides some kind of travel insurance policy.

10. Download essential apps

There's an app for just about everything these days, from language translation and local navigation to discovering top-rated eateries and managing expenses on the go. Before you hit the road, make sure your phone is equipped with the following essential apps:

Google Translate for language translation: This app allows you to break down language barriers, providing text and speech translations on the go.

Google Maps or Waze for mapping and navigation: Whether you're walking, driving, or using public transport, these apps guide you to your destination with real-time updates.

Expensify for expense management: Simplify your expense reporting process, especially on business trips, by capturing receipts and tracking business-related purchases.

Yelp or TripAdvisor for discovering local cuisine and activities: Find top-rated local eateries, read reviews, and discover hidden culinary gems in the area you're visiting.

11. Pack smart

When it comes to packing, frequent business travelers know that It's not just about fitting everything into your suitcase — it's about strategy! Think TSA-friendly clear bags for your liquids and electronics that are easy to take out during security checks. And if you plan to work on the plane, keep your laptop in a bag that will fit under the seat in front of you — not your suitcase. 

12. Bring clothes for business and pleasure

Dressing for success? Always. But don’t forget about the after-hours! Sure, you're there for business, but that doesn't mean you won't have some downtime. Maybe there's an impromptu dinner invite or a local sight you just can't miss. 

We recommend packing a versatile wardrobe that’s ready for boardroom presentations and also suitable for that evening stroll, casual hangout, or early morning hike. The more you can mix and match, the better. 

13. Don’t forget portable chargers

We’ve all been there — just as you're about to send that final email or pull up a critical presentation, your device decides to display the dreaded low-battery warning. This is where portable chargers swoop in as the ultimate business travel hack. 

Slip one into your bag, and you've got an instant power-up for those crucial moments. Whether you're navigating an unfamiliar city using your phone's GPS or catching up on work on the plane, stay charged and in control.

14. Bring travel snacks

Ever been stuck on a tarmac waiting for clearance or endured a surprise layover with no end in sight? While we can't always predict travel hiccups, we can certainly prepare for them. Enter travel snacks. 

Stash a few nutritious nibbles in your carry-on. Think protein bars, mixed nuts, or dried fruits. Not only do they help keep those hunger pangs at bay, but they also ensure you’re nourished and energized, especially when the only alternative might be an overpriced airport sandwich or, worse, nothing at all.

15. Keep your essentials at the ready while you travel 

You know the drill — once you get to the airport, passports, boarding passes, and IDs need to be kept handy! Instead of burying them deep within the abyss of your bag, have a dedicated pouch or section that’s easy to access. You don’t want to be that person holding up the boarding line because you can't find your ID. 

Even better: go digital as much as you can. Add your boarding pass to your phone and see if your state allows a mobile driver's license. That way, you simply pull out your phone for easy scanning.

16. Take advantage of airport lounges

Have you experienced the oasis that is an airport lounge? If not, you're missing out. These lounges aren't just for luxury. They provide a quiet space to work, offer refreshments, and can be the perfect spot to recharge — both your devices and yourself. Next time you're at the airport, consider stepping in and elevating your pre-flight or layover experience.

17. Optimize your layovers 

When you’re traveling for business, layovers can be more than just a pause in your journey; they can be a golden opportunity for productivity. Instead of aimlessly wandering the terminal or staring at the departure board, find a quiet corner, pop open your laptop, and dive into work. 

Tackling emails, prepping for meetings, or even strategizing for the week ahead can ensure you hit the ground running upon arrival. Remember, a proactive layover means less catch-up when you land at your final destination.

18. Say no to in-flight alcohol

While that in-flight cocktail might seem tempting, consider skipping it. Alcohol can dehydrate you, especially in the dry cabin air, and may disrupt your sleep cycle. Instead, opt for water or hydrating beverages. Your body — and your clarity during that upcoming business meeting — will thank you.

19. Adjust to your new schedule ASAP

Jet lag can be a serious drag, especially when you're traveling for business. The sooner you can sync up with the local time zone, the better. Upon arrival, try to adapt to the new schedule immediately. If it's daytime, resist the urge to nap, and if it's nighttime, get a full night's sleep. You'll be sharp and ready for those important business meetings.

20. Skip the hotel gym

While hotel gyms offer the convenience of a quick workout, there's nothing quite like lacing up your running shoes and heading outside to discover a new city on foot. Your daily jog can double up as a sightseeing session, letting you take in the ambiance and culture of your destination. 

21. Set a daily budget

We all know the dangers of unchecked spending, especially when traveling for business. It's easy to get carried away with that fancy dinner or an unexpected shopping spree. Setting a daily budget ensures you remain within the financial guidelines set by your company or yourself. It’s also helpful to check if your company offers a per diem for food and beverages while you’re traveling.

When you use the Expensify Card , admins can set spending limits for their on-the-road employees so everyone can avoid unexpected financial surprises.

22. Ditch paper receipts

Keeping track of countless paper receipts can be a daunting task when you’re exploring a new destination. Expensify makes it easy to upload receipts on the go , so you never have to dig through your bag for a crumpled receipt ever again. Receipt scanning technology is a green and efficient solution that helps you stay organized, ensuring you're reimbursed for every penny spent.

23. Use a firewall when you go online

Traveling for business means you might often rely on public Wi-Fi, be it in hotels, cafes, or airports. But remember, public networks can be a playground for cyber threats. Always ensure you're using a firewall and consider a VPN for an added layer of security. This way, you can work and browse with peace of mind, knowing your data remains protected.

24. Check out co-working spaces

Need a change of scenery from the hotel room? Co-working spaces are perfect for working and also networking. They offer a dynamic environment filled with like-minded professionals, fostering collaboration and fresh perspectives. 

See if your company has partnerships with local co-working spaces or if there are any popular ones in the area to enhance your work experience while traveling.

25. Opt for an international SIM card

Avoid exorbitant roaming fees. Before jetting off, consider grabbing an international SIM card or exploring the convenience of an E-SIM. Many employees have found success with E-SIM providers like Airalo, allowing you to secure a SIM for far-flung destinations without even leaving your home. 

These options are often far more economical than your standard roaming plans, ensuring you remain connected without burning a hole in your pocket. After all, staying reachable, especially on business trips, is essential.

26. Use Uber for easier reimbursements

Gone are the days of hoarding paper taxi receipts. With Uber expense reports , your ride receipts automatically populate as expenses in Expensify, so each trip is instantly ready for reporting — making life much easier for you and your company's accounting team.

27. Take advantage of networking opportunities

Traveling for business isn't just about the work you do in boardrooms. It's a fantastic opportunity to expand your horizons and professional network. Whether you're in a new city or a familiar one, seek out local events, workshops, or seminars related to your industry. The connections you make might lead to unforeseen collaborations or insights.

28. Track your mileage

When using a rental car or your personal vehicle for business, it's crucial to keep tabs on every mile you drive. Consider adopting technology, like Expensify’s easy-to-use mileage tracking feature, to ensure you're accurately reimbursed for every business-related journey you take. This saves you money and a lot of time and paperwork.

29. Leave reviews

Your experiences can be invaluable to both fellow frequent business travelers and your own organization. Whether it's a hidden gem of a restaurant, a stellar hotel, or an airport lounge that exceeded expectations, take a few moments to share your feedback online. Your insights could greatly aid someone else's travel experience or business decision.

30. Submit your expense reports ASAP

Don't let those expense reports pile up. The sooner you submit your expense reports , the sooner you’ll be reimbursed. Being timely keeps you in the good books of your finance department and improves cash flow while on the move.

Jetsetters use Expensify for business travel

Armed with these top-notch business travel tips, you're primed and ready to conquer any business journey that comes your way — and if you’re looking for even more ways to prepare, check out these business travel statistics . From pre-trip preparations to post-trip procedures, integrating technology like Expensify ensures a smooth and productive business trip. Safe travels, and here's to your next successful business adventure!

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22 Business Travel Tips for Frequent Corporate Travelers

If you’re frequently on the road for work, use these tips to make the most of your time away from home.

Business Travel Packing Tips

1. Use only carry on bags. Lugging a large suitcase through a foreign city or having your luggage lost before your destination is no way to start a business trip. Pack light to keep all your belongings in your allotted carry on bags.

2. Keep essentials packed between trips. Having extra toiletries, chargers, office supplies, and business cards already in your bag can save you time each time you travel.

3. Pack dress shirts in plastic garment bags. The plastic bags your dry cleaning is delivered in can help keep shirts from wrinkling in your suitcase.

4. Include casual clothes, not just suits. Having business-appropriate clothing is important. However, you’ll likely have time to explore your surroundings on foot and have a casual dinner one night. Packing gym clothes is also important.

5. Pack with security checkpoints in mind. Depending on where you’re traveling to, you will have to follow various security protocols. Your liquids and electronics should be easily accessible.

6. Invest in good luggage and accessories. A suitcase that is easy to pack and maneuver is worth the investment. A small digital scale that fits in a side pocket can help you avoid costly charges for a suitcase over the airline’s weight limit.

7. Pack items that help you sleep. Prioritize a pillow, headphones, or eye mask to help you sleep while at a hotel or on the plane. A good night of sleep is more important than a fourth pair of shoes.

8. Products like packing cubes can help you stay organized so you can easily find items when you need them. Each cube can hold a day’s outfits or contain a particular type of garment like evening wear or swim gear for that nighttime dip in the pool. Cubes can also keep dirty clothes sequestered from clean ones and make packing the morning of departure less chaotic!

Tips for Smooth Business Travel

9. Join rewards programs. Take advantage of your corporate travel to gain points or miles on your airline, hotel, or travel credit card of choice. You should also choose a credit card without foreign transaction fees.

10. Charge electronics before you fly. Your phone, laptop, and tablet should all have plenty of battery to help you pass time productively in the airport and on your flight. You won’t need to fight for an outlet at your gate either.

11. Use programs that speed up your travel. Check in to your flights online and print your boarding pass before heading to the airport. Apply for TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry to gain access to faster-moving security and customs around the world.

12. Book non-stop flights. Layovers lengthen trips. A two-or three-hour stop mid-trip can mean spending an extra day on the road, waking up earlier than necessary, or having a suitcase that didn’t make the same transfer you did.

13. Pay for an airport lounge membership. Most airlines provide lounges with plenty of food, outlets, and quiet space for a reasonable cost. Spend your time waiting for your flight away from the hustle and bustle of everyone waiting for your flight.

14. Print important confirmation numbers. While no one likes to think about losing their phone, it is possible to run out of battery just as you need your boarding pass or confirmation number. Print your itinerary and keep a copy in each of your bags.

15. Find (or pack) healthy food. Travel is hard on your body, and you need to continue to do your job well on the road. Packing or buying healthy snacks will help you stay well while traveling.

16. Use a travel management company (TMC). TMCs can help your company save money and optimize business trip itineraries. They can also simplify expensing and other forms of record-keeping required by business travelers.

Tips for More Business Travel Fun

17. Combine business and leisure. Add a few personal days to the beginning or end of a business trip to make it a “bleisure” trip! Bleisure trips are cost-effective and can help you be at your best personally and professionally!

18. Make more time for fun. Business trips can be stressful, especially when there are multiple locations or venues to visit. Plan ahead or use a travel management company to optimize itineraries. Renting a car instead of using ride sharing apps or waiting for cabs can save a lot of time and money.

19. Skip the hotel gym but don’t skip working out! Instead of staying on hotel grounds, use your daily jog as an opportunity to explore your surroundings. Research which areas of a location are safest and consider sticking to public areas like parks. Let family members or coworkers know you plan on venturing out on your own.

20. Find workspaces that double as leisure spaces. Hotels are converting rooms into WFH spaces complete with thoughtful amenities to accommodate the remote work revolution. Perks could include discounted meals and relaxing surroundings like poolside cabanas.

21. Avoid jet lag. Jet lag can really throw a wrench in your trip, especially when traveling internationally. Trying a melatonin supplement or any one of these tips can help you overcome jet lag and better enjoy your downtime.

22. Explore your hobby. Expand your horizons by researching what connections your destination has to your favorite hobby. Maybe there’s a museum dedicated to your hobby’s history or a unique retail store devoted to selling hobby-related products and services.

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Small Business Trends

15 business travel tips.

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Business travel can be fun and exciting, but there are many things you can do to make the experience better for a successful business trip . Whether you’re going for international business travel or domestic business travel, there are lots of things you can do to optimize business travel, including business travel safety. Here are some of the key business travel tips to keep in mind for your next trip.

How to Use These Tips for Business Travel

These tips will likely be most beneficial for a first-time business traveler, but even seasoned business travel professionals will find them valuable as reminders. These great tips can be incorporated into your business travel plans before you leave for your destination, as well as for when you get there.

Best Travel Tips for Your Next Business Trip

We’ve put together some essential business travel tips to help make business trips easier and help you gain more from each trip in this article, with additional travel safety tips for women available as well. This is by no means an exhaustive list, so feel free to share more business travel tips in the comments, as it will help others!

1. Look for coworking spaces on your next business trip

While staying in your hotel room might be tempting the whole trip, why not break the monotony a little? A coworking space is a great way to meet people on your corporate travels, and it makes it easier to work. You can take a business meeting there or rent a desk to get some work done and stay connected without being cooped up in a hotel room all day. As an alternative, you can also go to a local coffee shop to work out of as well if a coworking space doesn’t work.

2. Collect air miles

If you’re flying out for trips, you should sign up for air miles with any airline used for corporate travel and/or your preferred airline. Miles add up when you travel with the same airline, and you can use the perks like a cheaper flight, rewards, and advantages to your benefit for personal and professional travel moving forward.

3. Join a hotel rewards program

Asides from an air miles program, if you’re a frequent business traveler, you should also be part of a hotel rewards program. Like air miles, hotel rewards programs will give you a lot of perks and benefits as you accumulate points for hotel rooms booked through business travel. That can prove to be useful both personally and professionally, so make sure all your points get logged.

4. Seek out airport lounge access

Long layovers, flight delays, a long flight, or a combination of it all can often mean that you’re stuck in airports for a long time and generally feel pretty exhausted. Airport lounges are definitely something to consider since they offer a lot of benefits, including airport snacks, food, showers, a place to rest away from the crowds, and more. You can get access to airport lounges in a few different ways: If you’ve booked first-class or business class, most airlines usually have their airline lounges. You can also gain access through airline miles, a travel credit card, and more, so make sure to research beforehand.

Read More: international business travel

5. Maintain healthy habits

Even when traveling for work frequently, it’s crucial to take care of yourself and establish some kind of work-life balance. Jet lag and adjusting to local time are often issues during international business travel. However, it’s easy to let habits slip during the trip, even with domestic travel. Opt for healthy snacks where possible and use the hotel gym where you can to maintain cardiovascular health and take a break from work. You could also plan ahead and pack a bathing suit so you can use the hotel pool if the gym seems less appealing, but the goal is to make sure your physical health stays a priority even when traveling across a different time zone.

6. Look for rental car deals

If you need to drive a lot during your business travels, you should always keep an eye out for rental car deals. Many hotels and nonstop flights with certain airlines have package deals with rental cars that can save money and make it more efficient. You could also have it set up so that you’re able to pick up the rental car from the airport and drive straight to your hotel, rather than having to search for a taxi for added ease.

7. Pack Light

The best packing tips for business travelers tend to start with the same one: Pack light. Packing light makes it easy to move through airports and means less time spent trying to stuff everything into your suitcase last minute. If you want the essentials packed easily like travel toiletries, travel kit, casual clothes, and business clothes but don’t have space, there are options. For example, you can invest in items like packing cubes to help you stay organized while packing more. If you’re packing a suit, you can also get a suit bag for your suit jacket to avoid wrinkles.

8. Find your perfect carry on

Carry-on bags are essential travel bags that provide a lot of benefits for travelers. They’re usually pretty room, and having carry-on luggage means that you can take your bag with you on the plane. In addition, it speeds up travel quite a bit since you’re not waiting at baggage claim. A carry-on is usually on the smaller side for a business traveler and should fit in the plane’s overhead storage. Different airlines have dimensions requirements, so make sure to check the airline’s policy before purchasing – especially if traveling abroad.

9. Consider purchasing travel insurance

Travel insurance can be useful for business travel since it provides protection for different scenarios. Depending on where you’re traveling to and other factors, it might be worth researching insurance options for your business travel needs for emergencies.

10. Check-in for your flight online

Checking in and getting your boarding pass tends to be one of the more time-consuming parts of travel, but luckily, airlines have come up with ways to make it easier. For example, you can now check-in online for flights and add your boarding pass to your phone. That way, you can go straight to the gate when you’re at the airport and board, rather than having to wait in line to check-in and receive a physical pass.

11. Invest in noise-canceling headphones

Good headphones are important for business travelers and can be incredibly useful for both long and short business trips. A nice, high-quality pair of headphones that cancel noise can make noisy flights more relaxing, watch movies and TV while traveling, and even help you catch some shut-eye. Depending on your preferences, you can get over-ear headphones or noise-canceling earbuds .

Read More: Business Travel Safety Tips

12. Do your expense reports frequently

Expense reporting is not always the most fun task, but it is crucial. One of the most popular business travel tips tends to be around keeping an eye on expenses while you travel. Instead of trying to store all your receipts and backtrack filling out reports, try to do it on the go. You can take photos of receipts and log expenses in chunks throughout the trip to make the process easier.

13. Purchase a strong laptop bag

For your next business trip, it’s definitely worth investing in a bag for your laptop. It’s useful both for traveling internationally and on domestic trips and protects your work laptop from any nasty falls or damage. Some great bag options are available for laptops, including a sleek compact laptop bag or a messenger-style bag .

14. Optimize the airport process

If you’re planning on flying a lot, finding ways to cut time can make traveling so much easier. For example, checking in online is one method, but frequent travelers also have other ways to go through the airport process faster. Business travelers can sign up for Global Entry and TSA pre-check programs that provide immense benefits to frequent travelers. These programs are designed by the government to help you move through security lines faster and cut out time spent waiting in queues. You can sign up for these programs online, and they are essentially ways to expedite the security process at airports.

15. Frequent business travelers can still explore

A common misconception is that you don’t get to explore during business travel, but usually there are ways to get out and see at least some parts of the city. Look up some local visitor guides and travel blogs beforehand to understand what’s near your hotel, and what’s feasible for you to see. For example, you could try a popular local restaurant during your lunch break, or have an early dinner and catch a few shows during the week after work. If you have to undertake international travel or domestic travel for a corporate event, try and see if you can extend your stay for a few days before or after the event and take some time off to check out the city and sites.

Business travel presents both challenges and opportunities, and by following these valuable tips, you can enhance your overall experience and productivity during your trips. These tips cater to a wide range of aspects, from travel logistics to personal well-being, ensuring that your business travels are as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

Remember to maintain a healthy work-life balance, take care of your physical and mental well-being, and seize the chance to explore new places when the opportunity arises. By adopting a proactive approach to business travel and staying organized, you can navigate the demands of corporate travel with ease and make the most of each trip. Whether you’re a seasoned business traveler or embarking on your first corporate journey, these tips will help you optimize your travel experience and achieve success on the road. Safe travels!

Read More: travel safety tips for women

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5 Things Every Business Traveler Should Know

How to get Global Entry, when to splurge, and how to use airline loyalty for a better work trip every time.

If you’re an occasional flier, you might think business travel is all about cocktails in the airline lounge, first-class upgrades, luxurious hotel suites, and lavish dinners paid for with limitless expense accounts. The reality of business travel , however, is that it can be tedious and time-consuming — unless you take the necessary steps to make it all more convenient.

Here are five tips every business traveler can use to make their work trips better .

Get Global Entry (or TSA PreCheck).

The single best way to improve your airport experience is to join one of the government’s known traveler programs. Participating in TSA PreCheck gets you access to expedited security screening lines that cut wait times down to five minutes or under for over 90% of travelers who join. Global Entry will speed you through customs and immigration checkpoints when reentering the U.S. from abroad.

Most folks who join Global Entry also get TSA PreCheck automatically , so you’re better off just applying for it instead. Over a dozen credit cards will reimburse you for the cost of applying for either program ($78 for PreCheck, $100 for Global Entry).

You might also consider joining Clear , which is a biometric identification service that lets you skip to the head of the security line. It costs $189 per year, but certain airline elites get discounts on membership.

Pack right, pack light.

When packing for a business trip , nothing will slow you down more than checking a bag . You have to arrive at the airport before the cutoff window for your flight, and can end up waiting at the baggage carousel for an hour after you land, just hoping your luggage shows up . Save yourself time by going carry-on only .

There are plenty of great bags that help you organize your belongings, wrinkle-resistant fabrics that still look fresh even after days of being crumpled up in your bag, plus compact yet comfortable shoes that are functional enough to sprint through an airport but stylish enough to wear out to a business dinner.

Loyalty matters.

Focusing your travel with one particular airline and hotel group can help you earn elite status and benefits like priority check-in, seat selection, and boarding when you fly, or room upgrades, free Wi-Fi, and late checkout during stays.

Think about which airlines fly where you travel most and which hotels have properties in the destinations you visit often, and then concentrate your activity with them. That way, you can also put all the miles and points you rack up on flights and stays for work toward redeeming rewards for a personal vacation somewhere fabulous.

Carry the right credit card.

Whether you want to earn airline miles, hotel points , or cash back, there are a lot of reasons to get a business credit card for your work travel. Using one helps keep your professional and personal expenses separate. Some earn bonus points specifically on travel expenses and work purchases like office supplies and telecommunications. It also extends primary insurance on car rentals.

Others confer premium perks like access to airport lounges around the world plus significant discounts on business- and first-class airfares.

Keep up healthy habits.

Traveling frequently makes it hard to stay healthy on the road. You’re constantly surrounded by fellow (germy) travelers packing airports and planes, crammed into tiny seats for hours at a time, dealing with jet lag and sleep deprivation, and struggling to find healthy meal options, let alone a decent hotel gym. But there are solutions for every step.

Don’t be afraid to wipe down the surface of your seat with disinfectant. Pick up a healthy meal before you board the plane rather than relying on airline catering. And consider joining a program like Class Pass , which will get you into gyms and fitness classes wherever you happen to be traveling.

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25 Business Travel Planning Tips for 2024

As someone who frequently travels for business, you know just how crucial it is to plan for each trip. From booking flights and accommodations to scheduling meetings and events, there are countless factors to consider when it comes to business travel planning. But with the right approach, you can make the process easier, more efficient, and less stressful. 

This blog post will provide an easy guide to business travel planning with tips and strategies to help you stay organized and get the most out of your travels.

Top 25 Business Travel Planning Tips

1. Determine Your Travel Needs

Before you begin making any arrangements for your trip, you'll need to figure out your travel needs. This includes identifying the purpose of your trip, the dates you'll be traveling, and any specific requirements you have.

For example, will you need to rent a car, hire a driver, or take public transportation? Do you need to be in a specific location for a meeting or event at a particular time? Make a list of all your travel needs so you can refer to it as you plan your trip. 

2. Set Your Budget

Once you've identified your travel needs, it's time to set your budget. This will help determine how much you can spend on flights, accommodations, transportation, meals, and other expenses. 

Be sure to account for your company policies or restrictions, such as maximum daily allowances for meals or limits on travel expenses. 

3. Book Flights and Accommodations

You can begin booking flights and accommodations once you know your travel needs and budget for flights; book as early as possible to get the best prices and seat selections. 

You can use online travel booking sites like Expedia, Kayak, or Orbitz to compare prices and find the best deals. Regarding accommodations, consider factors like location, amenities, and price. Sites like Airbnb and Booking.com can help you find many options in your desired location. 

4. Plan Your Schedule

With your flights and accommodations booked, you can start planning your schedule. See if any meetings or events are on your calendar or if you have to schedule them during your trip.

You can use a calendar app like Google Calendar or Outlook to keep track of your schedule and be sure to account for any time differences between your home base and your destination. You can also use travel planning apps like TripIt to consolidate all your travel details in one place. 

5. Pack Efficiently

For many, packing is one of the most stressful parts of business travel planning, but it doesn't have to be. With a bit of planning, you can pack efficiently and avoid overpacking.

Make a packing list that includes all the items you'll need for your trip, and be sure to consider the climate and culture of your destination. Maximize space in your luggage using packing cubes or compression bags, and choose versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched. 

Here's a business travel checklist to get you started.

6. Manage Expenses

Managing expenses is a critical part of business travel planning. Keep all your receipts and record your expenses as you go. You can use apps like Expensify or Concur to track your expenses and create expense reports which you can directly upload to your company's corporate travel management software . Adhere to all the travel policies of your company or restrictions regarding expenses, and don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you're unsure. 

7. Stay Connected

Staying connected while on a business trip is essential. Please ensure you have all the necessary devices and chargers, and consider using a mobile hotspot or buying a local SIM card for internet access. 

You can also use apps like Skype or Zoom to stay connected with colleagues and clients, and consider using a VPN to access secure company networks while traveling. 

8. Stay Healthy

Staying healthy while on a business trip is also crucial. Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and exercise regularly. You can also research local health risks and take appropriate precautions, such as vaccinating or using insect repellent. If you're traveling internationally, be sure to bring any necessary medications or prescriptions with you. 

9. Be Prepared for Emergencies

No matter how well you plan, emergencies can still arise during business travel —plan for emergencies, such as lost or stolen luggage, flight cancellations, or medical emergencies. 

Keep important documents like your passport and travel itinerary in a secure location, and make sure you have emergency contact information for your company, travel provider, and local authorities. 

10. Reflect and Learn

After your business trip, take some time to reflect on areas of improvement and what worked well. Did you encounter any unexpected challenges? Were there any areas where you could have been better prepared or more efficient? You can use what you learned to enhance your travel planning process for future trips. 

11. Make the Most of Your Downtime

While business travel primarily focuses on work, making the most of your downtime is essential. Use your free time to explore the local area, try new restaurants, or attend cultural events. It can help you recharge and also make your trip more enjoyable. 

12. Network and Build Relationships

Business travel is also an opportunity to network and build relationships with colleagues, clients, and other professionals. Attend networking events, schedule one-on-one meetings, and engage in informal conversations with others in your field. Building relationships can help you advance your career and make future business trips more productive. 

13. Consider Travel Rewards Programs

If you frequently travel for business, it's worth considering travel rewards programs to help you save money and earn perks. Many airlines, hotels, and car rental companies offer loyalty programs that provide benefits like free upgrades, priority boarding, and discounted rates. Research your options and sign up for programs that align with your travel needs and preferences. 

14. Follow Travel Safety Guidelines

Travel safety is always a top priority, especially after the global pandemic. Follow all relevant travel safety guidelines, such as properly and regularly washing your hands and wearing a mask in areas where air quality or illness are a risk. Stay updated on any travel restrictions at your destination, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. 

15. Use Travel Planning Services

If you need more time or expertise to plan your business trip, consider using business travel solutions or planning services. Many companies offer customized travel planning services to help you with everything from booking flights and accommodations to scheduling meetings and events. It can help you save time and ensure your trip is well-organized and productive. 

16. Take Advantage of Technology

Technology can be a valuable tool for business travel planning. You can use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper to navigate your destination, and consider using translation apps like Google Translate to communicate with locals.

You can also use productivity apps like Trello or Asana to stay on top of your tasks and deadlines and document scanning apps like CamScanner to keep track of important documents. 

17. Be Flexible

Finally, it's essential to be flexible regarding business travel planning. Unexpected changes can arise, such as flight delays or last-minute meetings. Try to remain flexible, and be prepared to adjust your plans as needed. You can have a successful, stress-free business trip by staying open-minded and solution-focused. 

18. Consider Cultural Differences

When traveling to a different country or region, it's crucial to consider cultural differences. This can include language barriers, customs, and social norms. Research the local culture before your trip and try to learn some key phrases in the local language. Awareness of cultural differences can help you avoid misunderstandings and build stronger relationships with locals. 

19. Use Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can provide significant protection in case of unexpected events during your trip. It can include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Consider purchasing travel insurance before your trip to ensure protection during unforeseen circumstances. 

20. Stay Productive During Transit

Business travel often involves long transit periods, such as flights or train rides. Use this time to stay productive by catching up on work or reading relevant materials. Consider bringing a laptop or tablet, noise-canceling headphones, and any necessary chargers or adapters to maximize your time and stay on top of your tasks. 

21. Consider Sustainable Travel Practices

Sustainable travel practices can help reduce your environmental impact while traveling for business. This can include using public transportation or carpooling, choosing eco-friendly accommodations, and minimizing plastic waste. Consider incorporating sustainable practices into your travel planning to help promote a healthier planet. 

22. Choose the Right Travel Credit Card

A travel credit card can be valuable for business travel. Look for cards that offer rewards like points or miles that you can redeem for flights, hotels, or other travel-related expenses. You can also benefit from credit cards that cover travel and rental car insurance. Consider different cards' annual fees, interest rates, and rewards programs before choosing. 

23. Consider Time Zone Differences

Time zone differences can be challenging when traveling for business, particularly when scheduling meetings or calls. Use a time zone converter app like Time Zone Converter or World Clock to stay on top of the time differences between your location and destination. Be prepared to adjust your schedule accordingly to ensure you're available during critical times. 

24. Be Mindful of Jet Lag

Jet lag can be a significant challenge when traveling across multiple time zones. Please be aware of the symptoms of jet lag, such as fatigue, headaches, and difficulty sleeping, and take steps to minimize its impact. This can include staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and adjusting your sleep schedule before your trip. 

25. Plan for Time Off After Your Trip

Finally, planning for time off after your business trip is important. Returning to work immediately after a long journey can be physically and mentally challenging. Please take a day or two off after your trip to rest and recover before returning to work to ensure you're ready to tackle your next professional challenge.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, business travel planning can be daunting, but you can make it easier and more efficient with the right approach. Determining your travel needs and following these tips can ensure a successful and productive business trip. Happy travels!

Cvent Guest

Cvent is a market-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider with more than 4,000 employees, ~21,000 customers, and 200,000 users worldwide.

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19 Business Travel Tips for Frequent Corporate Travelers

Whether it’s been a while since you’ve engaged in corporate travel or you’re a first-timer, you might benefit from these business travel tips.

With the rise of video conferencing and other technological tools that help us to connect from afar, it’s easy to assume that traveling for work is a thing of the past. That’s certainly not the case! There are many reasons that people still need to make their way to remote offices and distant locations to get the job done. Whether it’s been a while since you’ve engaged in corporate travel or you’re a first-timer, you might fit from some business travel tips.

Gather the Team Together for a Scavenger Hunt

If your company is holding an annual conference or training event, consider a team-building event customized by the experts at Let’s Roam! We offer over 20 team-building activities , including virtual and hybrid events for those unable to engage in business travel. Contact us today to find out how we can help you plan effective exercises just for you and your crew!

Things to Do Before You Leave Home

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or you’re about to embark on your first-ever business trip, you should do a few things before you leave home. It’s never a good idea to travel for work without making arrangements in advance. If you travel on a whim without making any preparations, you may end up missing critical meetings, leaving something vital at home, or without a place to stay.

Book with Familiar Providers

Whenever possible, book reservations with airlines, rental car companies, and hotels that you’ve frequented before. By doing so, you’ll be familiar with how things work and the level of service you can expect. For example, you’ll know the terminal you’ll depart from and return to if you make reservations for your next business trip with your usual airline.

If you read travel blogs, you might be advised to bundle all your travel plans with one service provider, such as Expedia, Travelocity, or Priceline. While that can streamline the reservation process, it’s also a risky endeavor if you need to change your plans down the line. Even if you’re successful at changing your plans, you may end up paying a premium or you might not get a full refund if you shorten your stay or return your rented vehicle early.

Sign Up for Rewards Programs

Like your local yogurt store might give you a punch card that will entitle you to a free dessert after you collect ten punches for verified purchases, businesses in the hospitality industry often have loyalty programs that enable frequent business travelers to accumulate points they can later redeem for savings. You don’t have to travel often for these programs to benefit you.

Signing up for rewards programs is somewhat akin to offering future business to a provider. When you’re a member of loyalty programs, you may enjoy some perks like an upgraded seat, hotel room, or vehicle even if your rewards balance is zero because the provider wants you to use its services again down the line. In other words, providers may try to woo you with free upgrades to get you to book with them again.

Members of rewards programs often enjoy more conveniences, too. A rental car company may deliver your rented vehicle to you if you’re a member of its loyalty program, for example, while non-members may have to take the dreaded shuttle ride over to the company’s hub to get their automobiles.

Follow Your Company’s Travel Guidelines

Depending on the business you work for, your company may have a travel policy. If your organization has such a policy, make sure you make arrangements that are in keeping with those guidelines. The travel policy may require you to use a travel credit card instead of your own personal credit card if you want to be reimbursed for expenses incurred during your work trip. You may only receive a limited stipend for meals, too.

A typical travel policy varies from one company to another. Even frequent business travelers should review their company’s travel guidelines regularly to ensure they remain in compliance and won’t have to come out-of-pocket for non-reimbursable expenses unexpectedly.

Store Customer Service Numbers in Your Phone

As you firm up your travel plans, make sure you store the relevant customer service numbers in your phone. Having those numbers handy will be a big help if your plans get disrupted or you’re dissatisfied with the service you receive for any reason.

One of the best travel hacks you’ll ever receive is to follow your providers on social media. By following your airline, rental company, and hotel on social media, you won’t miss out on any promotions they offer. Some hotels share exclusive passwords on their social pages. If you use the designated password when you check-in, you may be privy to free perks, such as:

• In-room movie
• Hot chocolate kit
• Bottle of wine
• Preferred parking
• Drink or meal vouchers
• Room upgrades

Depending on the carrier or hotel you book with, you may be able to solve customer service issues on social media, too. If you tweet at an airline because you missed a connection or got bumped, you may be able to resolve the issue on Twitter and avoid waiting in line at a kiosk with the rest of the weary masses.

Dress Smartly

How you dress on the day you travel matters. If you dress professionally, it’ll make it more likely that you’ll receive preferential treatment and perks that can make your trip markedly more pleasant than it would be otherwise.

In addition to dressing well to possibly enjoy some benefits, you should dress with the TSA security check in mind. To make getting through security less of a hassle for you and everyone in line behind you, don’t wear a belt or metal accessories except for your wedding ring. Don’t forget to wear slip-on shoes so you can remove them and put them back on quickly without causing a traffic jam that will prevent you from winning any popularity contests.

Even if you book a direct flight, which is always a good idea to avoid oft-wasteful layovers, you may still wind up spending time in the airport lounge. Pick an outfit that will allow you to fit in during this travel time rather than making you stand out for all the wrong reasons.

Remember, there’s always a chance that you’ll run into one of your peers, competitors, or clients before you reach your destination. Always dress to impress with practicality and comfort driving your clothing choices.

Reserve Select Toiletries for Travel

You don’t need to be a frequent flyer to know that there are few things worse than arriving at a destination for a business meeting only to discover that you forgot your deodorant, conditioner, or favorite toothpaste at home. Having your preferred toiletries on-hand can be the difference between a successful work trip and one that literally stinks.

To ensure you’re comfortable during your trip, grab a small tote and fill it with all the toiletries you’ll need whenever you travel. Don’t use the items in that tote unless you’re traveling and replenish your supplies as they run out so you won’t have to rush around at the last minute before your next business trip.

Do you absolutely, positively need a certain item that you know you can’t travel with like a particular razor or aerosol spray? If so, consider ordering what you need from Amazon and having it shipped directly to your hotel before you arrive on-site. Be sure to alert the hotel about your package so the staff will know to keep an eye out for it and have it waiting for you in your assigned room.

Stick with Carry-On Luggage

Unless you’re going to be away from home for months at a time, you should do your level best to pack light. When you pack light, you’ll be able to avoid having to check bags, which can save you money and prevent delays waiting for stowed luggage to make its way to the baggage terminal.

Check with your airline to see how big your carry-on bag can be. Carry-on luggage is normally smaller than suitcases that are stored under a plane’s seating area, so start thinking in the realm of backpacks. As you pack, make sure you include an extra set of clothing among your things in case something spills on you during your flight.

You should also put essential items where you can access them easily. Rather than stuffing them at the bottom of your carry-on bag’s main compartment, put them in a separate pocket that you can lock.

If you’re traveling with a laptop, you’ll need to remove the device from your bag as you go through the TSA security checkpoint. Keep that in mind while you pack so you don’t bury your computer and charger underneath delicate items you’d prefer the public not to see, such as your underwear.

Are you going to pack clothing that needs to be wrinkle-free when you arrive at your destination? You may want to bypass your carry-on and stow them in a suit bag. Alternatively, you may want to wear the outfit on your travel day to keep it as wrinkle-free as possible.

If you don’t want to wear your good outfit on the plane and you’re required to check a suit bag, roll your clothes to keep wrinkles at bay. In addition to preventing wrinkles, rolling your clothes will enable you to fit more in your carry-on.

Pack Healthy Snacks

Too often, a business trip involves irregular mealtimes and unhealthy food choices. Even when you’re traveling in business class or first class, your meal options may only include processed foods that are devoid of taste and substantive nutrition.

You can avoid allowing yourself to get sucked into a food coma by preparing some delicious and nutritious snacks for long flights before you leave home. If your trip requires international travel, you can bypass a hassle at customs by ordering healthy snacks from Amazon and having them sent to your hotel.

Register for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry

Do thoughts of having to go through airport security turn your smile into a frown? If that’s the case, know you’re not alone. Luckily, you can turn your frown upside down by signing up for TSA PreCheck. Created by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration, TSA PreCheck allows registered travelers to sidestep certain security measures to expedite the airport screening process.

If international travel is a must for you, it might be wiser for you to sign up for Global Entry. This program also hastens the screening process, and it enables you to get through U.S. Customs faster when you re-enter the United States as well.

Both programs charge a modest fee for a five-year membership. If you find the cost of membership off-putting, contact your travel credit card provider to see if the bank offers a credit you can apply to cover the cost of registering in one or both programs.

What to Do During Your Business Travel

While business travel is different today than it was just a few years ago thanks to changes thrust upon the world as the result of the pandemic, some basic rules will always apply. One of those rules is to be courteous and compliant with an airline’s requirements. If, for example, your carrier requires passengers to wear a mask, do it, making sure you cover both your nose and mouth.

Everyone is tired of wearing masks, not just you. There is no point in giving an airline attendant grief because you don’t want to mask up. Similarly, it’s not your responsibility to chastise someone for not wearing a facial covering. Although you may think you’re being helpful, instructing someone to put a mask on can cause problems for airline attendants and other passengers, so let the professionals handle non-compliant travelers.

Another timeless “rule” of traveling is to familiarize yourself with the dos and don’ts of airline travel . Being familiar with these guidelines and adhering to them will ensure you’re viewed as a best-in-class passenger, which is definitely the reputation you want to have as a business traveler.

Book Your Seat at the Last Minute

Cancellations and seat changes are the norm for most flights. With this in mind, wait until about 30 minutes before takeoff to book your seat. By waiting until your flight is just about ready to board, you can increase the odds that you’ll reserve the best seat currently available. In other words, waiting to book your seat is kind of like giving yourself an upgraded seat in many cases.

Drink Water Instead of Booze

A lot of leisure and business travelers consider an airplane ride to be a great time to indulge in an adult beverage, two, or more. You should resist the temptation to do the same, especially if you need to get right down to business when you land.

Even if you’ll have a few hours to yourself when you reach your destination, you should still refrain from drinking during your travel time. Staying hydrated is a must if you want to avoid jet lag, so skip the booze and drink bottled water instead.

Sitting for long periods of time can negatively influence your circulation and it can result in neck or back pain. To keep your blood flowing and avoid a painful back or neck, stretch periodically during your flight. Be careful to not infringe on anyone else’s space when you stretch unless you like getting dirty looks and being on the receiving end of wisecracks.

Set Yourself Up for Success During Layovers

If you have to change planes during your business trip, use the time between flights to set yourself up for success. Connect to the secure Wi-Fi in the airport lounge and get caught up on work communications like emails. Check industry news outlets for any breaking news so you’ll be up to date when you arrive at your final destination. Doing these things is particularly important if you have to walk into a business meeting shortly after your next plane lands.

Once you’re caught up with work, use your cellphone to download some music, movies, or television shows. Once they’re downloaded to your device, you’ll be able to watch and listen to the programs even if you end up having to spend some extra time in a space that doesn’t have a Wi-Fi connection.

Are you planning to catch some shuteye during your connecting flight? Visit one of the airport’s retailers to look for things that can facilitate sleep, such as an eye mask and some quality earplugs. Resist buying a travel pillow or anything else that’s too bulky to fit into your carry-on. Adding bulk or too much weight to your carry-on is the last thing you want to do during a stopover.

Like staying hydrated can help you avoid jet lag, so can exercise. If you have some free time between flights, consider booking a training session for the morning or early afternoon on the day you’ll arrive at your destination to offset the effects of jet lag. Refrain from scheduling a workout in the evening or the session may negatively affect your ability to adapt to a different time zone and a new schedule.

Keep Your Boarding Pass to Yourself

Whenever you’re on a work trip, keep your boarding pass private. Even if you use a Sharpie to block out the numbers on the pass, people can still steal personal data if you share pictures of your pass on social media. The QR code on your pass contains sensitive information. If that information makes it into the wrong hands, it could compromise your identity and even your safety.

Use Your Own Charger

Many airports and hotel business centers have public charging stations. While public charging stations are convenient, they’re also dangerous. That’s because people can swipe information like your credit card number from your electronic devices via USB. To keep your information safe, bring your own charger or use a USB data blocker if you have no choice but to use a public charging station.

Save Your Receipts

Does your employer reimburse you for the expenses you incur during a business trip? Do you itemize your federal taxes? In either case, you should save all your receipts. It’s also wise to use your cellphone to take pictures of your receipts as you get them in case you lose the paper receipts.

Steps to Take After Business Travel

You may think the work is done when you return home after a business trip, but that’s normally not the case. There are still a few things you’ll need to take care of.

Report Your Expenses ASAP

It’s easy to put off completing an expense report, but you shouldn’t. Fill out your expense report as soon as you can while your expenses are still fresh in your mind. You’ll be more likely to notice discrepancies or missing charges if you complete your expense report sooner rather than later. Also, you’ll get your money back that much faster.

Send Thank You Notes or Emails

At the earliest opportunity, you should send thank-you notes or emails to everyone you met with during your trip. Although emails are quicker, handwritten thank you notes are often perceived as more thoughtful and personal.

Connect with Family and Friends

When you return from a business trip, especially a prolonged one, prioritize reconnecting with your friends and family members. Planning a virtual game night with Let’s Roam is one simple way you can reconnect with loved ones no matter where they’re located.

Frequently Asked Questions

Avoid falling prey to rookie mistakes, like going rogue, booking the cheapest flight or hotel, and not tying up loose ends at the office. These business travel tips should keep you on track!

There are many things to remember when traveling on business . For starters, re-read your company’s travel policies, try to tie things up at the office before you leave, and travel as lightly as possible.

Follow business travel tips from the experts! Adhere to your company’s travel policies, save your receipts, stick with carry-on luggage, if you can, and stay connected with loved ones !

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10 Tips for Efficient Business Travel

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Don't let a business trip overwhelm you.

Between planning for presentations and meetings, following airline guidelines and packing your luggage, getting ready for a business trip can seem like a project of its own. Keep your workload to a minimum and maximize the time you have by using the following tips to help you pack, travel and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

1. Keep essentials packed at all times.

If you are on the go often, like Jonathan Spira, editorial director of Frequent Business Traveler, avoid forgetting crucial items such as toiletries and charging cables for electronics by keeping them in your travel bag at all times. You may have to replenish some of these items every couple of trips, but the less you have to worry about while preparing for a business trip, the better, Spira says.

2. Bring disposable items to save space later.

Including a couple end-of-life pieces like old T-shirts or socks in your travel bag serves two purposes: One, it can help you clean out your closet at home, and two, by discarding items before returning from your trip, you make more room in your bag. “You can’t necessarily do this on every trip if you travel a lot, but if [you] shed items along the way it makes room for anything you accumulate,” Spira says.

3. Remember to pack leisure clothing items.

When preparing for a trip full of meetings and work-related adventures, it may be easy to forget to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes and jeans. Try to include at least one outfit that you could wear sightseeing or for an evening out on the town. You’re not going to want to spend your entire trip in a full suit or dress.

4. There is not a right or wrong way to pack a travel bag.

Some people may be passionate about rolling all items in their suitcase, while others insist that neatly folding all the pieces is the way to go. But if you want to optimize the little space you have, is there a better method? Spira says no, it varies, and it’s best to be flexible. “It’s really a personalized thing,” he says. “For example, I will fold T-shirts until I run out of room, and then I will roll them to fill the corners.”

5. Avoid checking bags.

If traveling by air, take advantage of carry-on bag allowances instead of paying to check luggage. Packing for that smaller size allowance may seem like a hefty feat at first, but Spira says as long as you focus on the necessities, it can be done. “For example, I usually have one pair of shoes packed and one pair on my feet,” he says. “You just can’t bring your whole closet.”

6. Use a "checkpoint friendly" bag.

Checkpoint friendly bags allow you to leave electronics in the case while they go through security, which reduces the time that would otherwise be used to unpack and repack your luggage, as well as the potential to leave something behind in the process. These Transportation Security Administration certified bags can be purchased online or at any luggage supply store.

7. Sign up for frequent traveler programs.

Ease international airline travel by registering for services like Global Entry or other pre-check programs. Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that allows pre-approved travelers to bypass traditional security checks. “If you spend half an hour each time waiting for a bag to be checked, you are spending a lot of time standing around,” Spira says. “I highly recommend that frequent international travelers look into this service.”

8. Be aware of cellular service rates.

Pay attention to your cellphone carrier’s service and data rates when traveling, especially if you are leaving the country. Spira suggests buying or renting a mobile hotspot to avoid hefty fees if you know you are going to need remote Internet access.

9. Ship items home to save more space and money,

If you accumulate more stuff while on your business trip than your luggage allows, Spira suggests filling one large box and shipping it home before departing. “I try to ship stuff by the cheapest means possible,” he says. “In the case of larger items, especially with business and first class, you get a reasonably nice check bag allowance. I usually allow myself to check a box or two maybe once or twice a year.”

10. I.D.? Check. Passport? Check. Ticket? Check.

Last but not least, make sure you have all the documents you need for your trip packed safely with you but easily accessible when needed. Print your boarding passes ahead of time and store them next to your passport and/or driver’s license so everything is right on hand when you get to the airport. This way, you can reduce the time spent waiting in line even more.

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5 Money-Saving Tips for Business Travelers

I f you’re someone who frequently travels for business, you know all too well that the expenses can add up pretty quickly. Fortunately, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to score a better deal -- and you can use the money you saved to buy yourself something from the SkyMall.

1. Book Two One-Way Flights

Sometimes you’ll find that booking two separate, one-way flights is actually cheaper than booking one, round-trip. Unless you’re trying to rack up rewards points, look at different airlines to maximize your savings. Sites like Kayak do this for you, but it never hurts to check the airline websites yourself in case they missed something. 

2. Book an Economy Ticket with a Y or B Booking Code

Why, you ask? Because these codes indicate that you’re looking for an upgrade. You will pay full price for your economy ticket, but if there are any open seats in business class or first class available, you will be the first in line to get one -- for free. This strategy works best if you are a loyal customer of the airline, but even if you aren’t you should still give it a shot.

3. Fake Your Country of Residence

If an airline is trying to break into a new country or if a country has a lower standard of living, they’ll offer the same tickets at lower prices for those residents. Although, you don’t actually have to be from that country to take advantage of those deals! You can simply look up that country’s version of Expedia, Kayak, etc, go to that site, and pretend you are from there. Be sure to have a currency conversion calculator handy, though, so you know exactly how much you’re paying. 

4. Keep the 24-Hour Refund Window in Mind

Even for non-refundable flights, there is always a 24-hour window to cancel your flight without having to pay a fee. So, if you’re having trouble deciding whether or not to buy a ticket, just go for it. Then, over the next 24 hours, you can periodically check the website to make sure the price hasn’t dropped, and if it did you can easily cancel your original ticket and book another one at the new price. 

5. Give Up Your Seat

Airlines frequently overbook planes to ensure that flights are full, so if you aren’t in a rush, you should consider giving up your seat in return for compensation. Ask the airline attendants for cash, and if they are offering flight vouchers make sure there aren’t a lot of restrictions or blackout dates. The compensation usually increases as the airline gets more desperate, so you may want to wait a while to see what they’re willing to give.