If you’ve ever had to travel for business, you know that it can be challenging. Whether you’re traveling by plane or by car, there are several tips you can use to make the trip easier.
Preparing For The Unexpected
Taking a business trip of any kind can be a drag. Luckily, there are several things you can do to make sure your skin stays on its lane. For starters, be proactive and try to use an online trip planner that offers a business travel itinerary template. Once you have planned your business itinerary everything will be a breeze. A few well-placed phone calls can go a long way in ensuring the safety of your loved ones. Many online travel services help you find the best deal on airfares, hotels, and more. From there, the fun starts. The best part is that you don’t have to wait for your flight to be canceled or delayed! Fortunately, a reputable travel agency can help make your next business trip a breeze. This includes travel insurance and other perks that make your life much easier. If you need some more inspiration, check out our travel service directory. Just remember to make time for yourself and your family! Whether traveling for business or pleasure, a little preparation goes a long way.
Keeping A Separate Set Of Toiletries For Business Travel
Keeping a separate set of toiletries for business travel makes life much easier for the traveler and their staff. This includes the items above, plus a few nifty gadgets like a decent-sized bag to stash them all in. The trick is to ensure that the contents are in working order and good condition. You’ll also need to check with the airline before handing them off to the baggage handlers. One of the best ways to go about this is to buy a cheap backpack or duffel from your local discount retailer. Once in possession of the said bag, ensure to give it a thorough once-over, including an entire run through the wash. After all, you don’t want to be caught short at the airport.
While at it, consider investing in some of the latest and most excellent accessories to ensure you’re on the ball for the long haul. A few items to pack include a set of flashy pens to write on and seal, a nice pen for making notes on, and a good quality business card case. If you’re lucky enough to travel internationally, you may also be able to pick up some swag in the form of a free airline credit, which is a definite plus. Lastly, bring some funkiest business cards to show off at networking functions.
Expense Reporting Is Crucial.
Expense reporting is a key part of keeping your business spending under control. It helps you document your expenses, analyze the efficiency of your operation, and calculate the profit you can make. You can also use it to claim tax reimbursements.
The expense report should include the expenses, such as the vendor name, the date paid, and the amount. There should also be subtotals for each category.
The employer should carefully review an expense report. This will help prevent fraud and ensure the correct taxes are paid for reasonable expenses. Missing receipts can lead to legal trouble, so get copies.
Expense reports are typically created in Excel or Word. It may be worth investing in software that makes expense reporting easier for larger businesses. These tools can reduce errors and fix them in real-time. They will also provide more accurate information and make your life easier.
Having a formal expense policy can also make the process easier. Your company should create a policy that defines the procedure. You should also require employees to submit an expense report for reimbursement. Creating this policy will help your staff follow the process correctly.
Getting reimbursed quickly is also essential. With the right software, employees can submit their receipts electronically and get them returned directly from their company’s wallet.
Booking Non-Stop Flights
Booking non-stop flights can help you avoid the stress and complications associated with traveling by car, train, and plane. Non-stop flights are also the most convenient and fastest way to get to your destination. However, to find the best deals on airfare, you should plan. To do so, look at the off-season and avoid travel during busy holiday seasons. Then, take advantage of the 24-hour rule, which allows you to cancel a US flight without penalty within 24 hours.
If you are looking for cheap flights, you should search for airfare at least 21 days before departure. This is because you usually get better fares when you book more than twenty days in advance. Each site has its way of searching for flights, but they all have similarities. You can also call an airline agent to link up your reservations.
Consider booking a premium economy ticket or a business-class seat if you’re in the market for a non-stop flight. Both types of keys come with more amenities than coaches, and you can usually find a good deal. These seats can also be reimbursed if you’re a United Airlines card member. Also, if you have TSA pre-check, you’ll save time at the airport.
