Handy Travel Hacks Every Business Traveler Should Know Gabby Teaman February 11, 2023 general If you basically work out of a suitcase and are always on the go for business meetings across the country, you probably could use a few helpful hints that could make your life a bit easier when getting ready for the road. Whether you’re taking a lengthy trip or an overnighter, these handy business travel hacks can help you travel with ease while saving time and money. Pack as light as possible Packing light is a must when it comes to business travel. In general, most travel experts recommend packing only what you need on a business trip. When picking out clothes for your trip, it’s best bring a basic set of business attire — like a suit or jacket/pants combo — then switch things up with different shirts and accessories. Also, choose shoes and belts that go with every possible combo. Travel experts further recommend rolling your clothes instead of folding them. Rolling clothes is a great space-saver and also ensures that all of your outfits will be wrinkle-free when you arrive at your destination. You’ll also need toiletries. But instead of buying travel-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner, purchase some empty travel-sized container and fill them up with full-sized containers you have at home. This also saves on plastic waste. Invest in a luggage scale Save yourself the hassle of being oblivious when it comes to the weight of your luggage. Invest in a portable luggage scale. Lightweight and easy to use, this little tool allows you to weigh your luggage before you get to the airport. Now travelers can eliminate anxiety surrounding the weight of the bags that they plan to check. A luggage scale offers insight into what someone can add or remove before heading to the airport. Nothing is more annoying than arriving at the counter and then having to decide if you’ll discard items or pay an unexpected fee. Luggage scales are easy to find and easy to carry. Download your airline’s app Make sure to download the app for the airline that you plan to travel with. Doing so will allow you to manage your trip before, during, and even after it happens. A few of the benefits that come with downloading your airline’s apps are early check-in, the ability to manage and update your seat assignments, as well as access boarding passes, airport maps, dining suggestions, and food ordering. The airline app also lets you see real-time updates on your flights. These updates may include things like weather alerts, delayed departure times, and gate changes. Maximize travel credit card perks There are quite a few credit cards that focus on travel perks. Do your research and find a card or several cards that will allow you to maximize travel credit card perks. Benefits include free checked bags, discounted companion fares, and double or triple rewards points for eating out or even ordering in. You can even earn double or triple rewards points for travel expenses such as hotels, flights, homestays, and car rentals. Sign up for TSA Pre-Check Thankfully, you don’t need to go through the hassle of getting through the security checkpoint at the airport. With TSA Pre-Check, you can use alternate screening line that will allow you to save time and energy. Some of the perks of TSA Pre-Check are you don’t have to remove your shoes or take your laptop out of your carry-on baggage. Also, you can walk through without having to remove your jacket and belt. Lastly, you won’t be asked to take your liquids out. TSA Pre-Check is a no-brainer for busy travelers. Book at the best time When it comes to booking flights, the earlier, the better. Data from travel websites suggests that customers who book their flight at least 30 days prior to their departure not only get the best price but also their choice of seat. Flying with the same airline also allows travelers to enjoy certain perks. If you know you’re going to be in a hurry when you land, consider booking a seat in the front of the plane so you can be among the first in the security line. Booking the first flight of the day also has its own distinctive advantages. Studies suggest that early morning flights, particularly those between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m., are more likely to arrive on time than flights at later times. Invest in noise-reducing headphones Noise-reducing headphones allow you to turn travel time into you time. They’re especially useful when one considers the poor quality of complimentary headphones given out by airlines. If you’re looking to catch up on work during your flight, noise-reducing headphones can help you tune out distractions, from talkative seatmates to crying babies. Working on your flight is especially easy when one considers that most airlines now offer free Wi-Fi. Noise-reducing headphones are also a great investment for passengers hoping to relax on their flights. Sitting from the comfort of your seat is the perfect time to binge watch the latest season of your favorite show or check out a new podcast. Or, you can always take a nap. Try not to check in luggage Unless your trip will last more that a week, most travel experts say that it is better to avoid checked-in luggage. Using a simple carry-on bag has many benefits for business travelers, both ensuring that you pack more efficiently and helping you save time and money at the airport. With a carry-on, you won’t have to wait to pick up your luggage. The best types of carry-on luggage feature compartments so you can easily pack essentials like clothes, shoes, and toiletries in specially designated places. Travelers looking for a more individualized setup can also buy packing cubes to organize their bag. Front compartments are also useful for documents and an easy place to store your tablet or laptop. You may also enjoy: Five Secrets of Productive Business Travelers Pack healthy snacks Traveling can sometimes be a little draining, so pack a few of your favorite treats for when you need a pick-me-up. While airports are full of many tasty vendors, not all of them provide healthy options. Packing a few nutrition bars or a bag of grapes is a wonderful way to satisfy a craving. The sometimes unpredictable nature of air travel also makes including snacks and even a water bottle that you can fill up after going through security a really good idea. Flight delays are fairly common occurrences, as are situations when flight staff are unable to serve passengers food and beverages. While these mishaps are inconvenient, you’ll find that enduring them with a bag of your favorite snacks in tow will make the situation all the more bearable. What are some of your favorite travel hacks? Share them with us in the comments.
