Business Travel On a Budget

Just because you're traveling for business, it doesn't mean that you have to spend big bucks to get there and back, especially if you work for yourself. Save money, while still being productive by knowing where to splurge. You can be the hero of your company and the envy of other business people. Here are 5 ways to make the most of your money and get ahead.  

Get the wireless package

Gogo Wireless is your ticket to successful flying. If you take to the skies often, save big by buying a monthly plan instead of paying per flight. You can use it unlimited throughout the month on your chosen airline, or, for a few dollars more, on all participating airlines. Get all your work done online while other people are watching the in-flight movie or reading a book. The monthly plan pays for itself in just a few three-hour flights.

Purchase a Priority Pass for airport lounges

It’s hard to work in a crowded terminal or even at one of those tiny coffee shop tables, plus you need to find a place to plug your laptop in if you start to run out of juice. Airport lounges are so much more comfortable and efficient. Membership at Priority Pass gains you admittance to over 600 airport lounges across the world, where you can enjoy Internet access, free drinks and snacks and more. The best part? You don’t need to pay for a business class ticket to gain entry.

Pack light

Packing light is always a budget move. Not only do you save on baggage fees, you can go from the plane to your business meeting right away, without having to wait at the baggage claim or drop your bags at your hotel if you don’t have time. Women can make use of a little black dress, a blazer, cardigan and different accessories to make many outfits out of a few key pieces. Men can get by with one suit and several different shirts and ties. You can pack less and still look great and professional every day.

Use your smart phone to save time, money and aggravation

Chances are your phone bill is paid for by your company (or you write it off on your taxes), so use it to make the most of your time. Use a service like TripIt to keep track of all your miles and itineraries, book flights and get travel alerts on-the-go. You can also use it to make reservations with dining programs like OpenTable to get rewards and discounts on dining. Your clients will never know you wined and dined them on a budget!

Get more airline miles

As frequent travelers, business people spend a lot of time in airports. Why only get frequent flyer miles for flying? Accrue miles for parking, shopping and dining when you sign up with Thanks Again and get free flights faster. Use the free flights for your personal trips if you have to use your own money and get reimbursed for the costs. If you use a business credit card for your travels, use the free flights to save on your future business trips.

These are some great ways to make the most of your time and money, making you a more effective business traveler. Make sure to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and look your best when you arrive at your destination, in case you don’t have time to freshen up. Good walking shoes will also be a lifesaver, as they can be perfect for work situations and also for sightseeing if you have some extra time before heading back home. Feel better and more productive on all your trips!

How do you save on your business travel?