Business Travel Tips

Here are some business travel tips to keep in mind to make sure you travel cheap, even when traveling for business. Many companies are now dramatically reducing travel budgets and requiring employees to justify the cost of business travel. Even in a tight economy, there are times when your company will need you to go on the road.

Be Aware and Informed
Besides opening a bag of airline peanuts, the most frustrating part of flying can be airport security, especially for business travelers. When traveling through the security checkpoint at most airports, you have to pull your laptop out of your briefcase or bag and run it separately through the machine. When packing your personal computer, make sure you can quickly pull it out of the bag when you reach security.

While doing your business travel planning, make sure to go to the airport's website for the latest DOT regulations. Understanding the rules and packing accordingly can make your trip through security a lot smoother.

Get Rewarded for Traveling
Even in a turbulent economy, airlines still offer frequent flier miles to passengers and membership typically is free. If you charge your business expenses, choose a credit card that offers rewards such as airline miles, hotel points or complimentary access to airport lounges.

Don't Waste Your Per Diem
Most corporate business travel involves an expense account or a daily per diem that pays for incidentals such as food and ground transportation. These days, companies are keeping a closer eye on the bottom line and expense accounts, which means they are setting stricter limits on the type and amount of charges you can make. A few common corporate business travel budget busters include:

Hotel mini-bar. For the price of a fast food meal, you can enjoy a can of soda and candy bar in the privacy of your hotel room. Instead of breaking into the mini-bar, ask the concierge where the nearest grocery or convenience store is located and stock up on snacks and soft drinks.

Taxis. When you have to get to and from the airport in a hurry, a cab is the way to go. Unfortunately, these can be rather expensive, especially if your hotel is far away from the airport. If your travel plans are flexible, use an airport shuttle service instead. These vans carry several people and take longer to get to your destination, but the savings can be significant.

During your stay, also use public transportation whenever possible. Many cities have excellent light-rail and bus services, which are less expensive than hailing a cab.

Laundry/valet. Though looking sharp for a business meeting is important, most hotels charge approximately seven to ten dollars to clean and press one blouse or shirt. One way to help keep the expense account intact is by pressing your own clothes. Most hotel rooms come equipped with an iron and ironing board, or you can request one from the concierge.

The Business of Business Travel
If your company doesn't have an in-house business travel planner, it could make good economic sense to enlist the services of business travel companies. These agencies can arrange for group rates on airline tickets and hotel rooms and save you money on your next business trip.

If you prefer to make your own corporate business travel arrangements, check some of the online clearinghouses that offer deep discounts on travel and accommodations.