Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, traveling like a pro can save you time, money and reduce some of the annoyances that can come with the territory. These three tips from business travel agency pros can help you avoid hassles and navigate travel more easily.
Get TSA Precheck & Global Entry
TSA Precheck can help you cut down on stress and save time. You can skip the line at airport security, you won’t have to remove your shoes, belt or light jacket and laptops & liquids can stay put. An $85 membership is good for five years, and all you have to do is submit an online application and visit an enrollment center for a short appointment that includes a background check and fingerprinting.
Global Entry is a program that allows for pre-approved, low-risk international travelers to return to the U.S. using automatic kiosks at select airports. That way, you can fly (no pun intended) through customs and get home sooner. Corporate travel companies have professional business travel agents who are well-versed in the details of obtaining a TSA Precheck or Global Entry and can help you with the process. The less time spent languishing at the airport, the better, right?
Pack Light
Packing like a pro allows you to skip the hassle of waiting at baggage claim and possibly losing your luggage. $25 to check a bag doesn’t seem like much, but if you’re a frequent business traveler it adds up fast. Even if it’s a long trip, pack only the essentials and use laundry and dry cleaning services at your hotel. Just ask your business travel management company to book you a hotel that offers these amenities. Bringing just a carryon will save time and money, and it’s one less thing you need to keep track of when traveling.
Research Your Destination Before You Go
Food and travel information is more accessible than ever. Researching your destination online and checking out the travel sections of newspapers can keep you abreast of the latest restaurant trends and things to see and do. Because their agents are experienced in planning events around the globe, corporate event travel management services can be a great resource for getting the scoop on what’s hot.
Locals like taxi drivers are typically more than happy to give you the skinny on restaurants, sights and can’t-miss activities. Following your nose while you’re out exploring can yield affordable and tasty results; and street food will give you an authentic taste of the local culture. If you’re traveling to a foreign country and don’t know the language, learn basics like, “Hello,“ “Please,” “Thank You,” and “Do you speak English?” Using phrases in the local language such as “I would like…” can help make sure you’re ordering what you want to eat or drink. While it’s okay to splurge once in a while, eating healthy and nourishing foods can keep your immune system working like a charm and leave you feeling good overall.
If you’re looking to make travel a little more painless and a lot more fun, a business travel agency can provide specialized corporate travel management solutions designed to fit your specific needs.
With business travel worldwide on the rise, the best flights and hotels can get booked up quickly, especially to the most popular destinations. While sometimes you can’t help but arrange a last-minute trip, when you can, plan your trip arrangements early.
