While business travel might have been restricted last year, in 2021 the pandemic is finally dying down and corporate travel is once more becoming a viable option for many business leaders. So much so, in fact, that you can start planning your national and international travels for 2021 as more and more countries continue to lift their travel bans. Even though you might have gotten used to handling business via Zoom, it’s important to resume traveling, especially to those crucial business events that can help you grow your brand on numerous fronts.
However, there’s no denying that corporate travel can be a time-consuming, resource-intensive process, especially when it comes to finances. That said, with proper planning and preparation, and by implementing some key tips while on the road, you can save money for your business and become a better corporate traveler in the process.
Let’s take a look at the top tips you can use to travel more efficiently and effectively for business in 2021.
Find a better credit card plan and join reward programs
The first and most obvious way you can become a better business traveler and save money in the process is to join the various rewards programs offered by your credit card provider, your airline, and even the hotel chain you stay at during your travels. Keep in mind that all of these companies have their loyalty programs, and the more you use their products and services, the better the rewards are going to be in the long run.
That said, your current credit card provider might not offer any perks for your chosen plan, or at all, and if that is the case, then it’s time to find a better one. You should look for a credit card provider that offers various perks like cashback rewards on certain purchases, zero transaction fees for credit card spending abroad, and the like. It’s also important to join a reward program with your airline so that you can accrue frequent flyer miles, and you can also get points with your hotel if you choose to stay with the same brand every time.
Keep your devices topped-off
Business travel can be taxing on the body and the mind, but it can also be taxing on all of those devices you use on a daily basis. In a tech-driven world, you can’t afford to get disconnected at any moment, especially if you’re constantly communicating with clients and team members while on the go. If you’re traveling the different stores and job sites you own to connect with your employees and boost morale, for example, that doesn’t mean that you can simply go off the grid and forget about your own work.
To that end, make sure to keep your devices topped-off at all times by bringing a portable charger. If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to check the power outlets and voltages used at your destination and bring your own power adapter just in case. This way, your devices won’t ever die on you in the middle of an important Zoom call, and you’ll stay connected to your clients and employees wherever you are.
Get the right insurance for every trip
Having the right insurance policy at your side is paramount to being a successful business traveler, because you never know what might happen on the road. The worst thing that can happen to you is having to pay out of pocket for any unforeseen expenses, and even though the company might cover those expenses, it’s not exactly the best way to save money for your business.
When you’re traveling and renting a car to get around with ease, it’s important to have a comprehensive car insurance policy to cover you against accidents and any mishaps on the road. Likewise, you should get the proper travel insurance and any other policy to protect your valuables to avoid any extraneous expenses should something happen during your travels.
Take the time to organize a detailed itinerary
Great business travelers always have everything planned out, with enough time allocated in their day for every business and leisure activity. Everything in your schedule should have its own timeslot so that you can make it to every meeting, and have enough time to rest and recuperate in your downtime. If you are traveling to promote your brand to new potential customers, then it’s all the more important to have a detailed itinerary so that you don’t miss out on any sales opportunities.
Try to fit everything into your carry-on
Lastly, keep in mind that you don’t need to bring any cumbersome luggage on your business trip – you simply need to learn how to fit everything in your carry-on. To do this, understand that you really don’t need that much stuff.
You can get by with only two suits and a couple of shirts, along with a pair of shoes that go with everything. If you invest in a functional carry-on bag, you will be able to easily organize your toiletries, devices, and other essentials to fit neatly in the overhead compartment.
Over to you
Becoming a better business traveler means less stress and higher financial savings along with a more enjoyable and productive trip. Use these simple tips to take your corporate travel to the next level and achieve all your goals while on the road.
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