Travel Safety
The FBI and local authorities of major cities are warning everyone to be extra vigilant about suspicious activity right now. In light of the recently uncovered terror plot, places like stadiums, hotels, planes and subway stations are on alert. As a business travelers, we can't generally avoid those hot spots, which is why I've rounded up my best safety information:
Continental OnePass Changes
Continental Airlines announced on September 17th, 2009, that it will be making some changes to its frequent flier program, OnePass, on October 27th (when it joins the Star Alliance). One of the changes is a new $75 fee for reward tickets booked within 21 days of travel. To see the complete list of OnePass changes, visit the Continental Airlines website.
AAdvantage Members Should Update Profiles
As of September 15, 2009, American Airlines will be collecting secure flight data from all passengers in order to comply with new regulations from the TSA. From now on, whether booking online or through an agent, passengers will be required to supply the precise spelling of their name (as it appears on your government id), birth date and gender. AAdvantage members are encouraged to update their online profiles to reflect this new data.
Keeping Up With Expenses - NeatReceipts
The end of a business trip is always my favorite part - until I look at the pile of unorganized receipts I have accumulated and realize that sorting through them is the only way to get reimbursed. If you are like me and need help organizing your business expenses (I'd like back the thousands of dollars I know I've lost over the years due to my disorganization), the NeatReceipts scanner may be a step in the right direction. This relatively mobile device can eliminate piles of crumpled receipts from your briefcase for good, keeping you organized and, perhaps, even motivating you to get your expenses in on time (a new found resolution for me after dealing with a pile of papers at tax time!).
Liquids Onboard
Since I never check a bag, I am very familiar with the airport security 3-1-1 rule (and just how far I can bend it). Nevertheless, I still found myself having to dispose of liquids on a recent flight back to the States. After having gone through immigration, customs and security, passenger carry-on bags were searched on the jet bridge before boarding. Once again, any items that fell out of the 3-1-1 parameters were confiscated - even if purchased in the airport.
Save Money on Business Travel
With the unemployment rate hitting a 26-year high this week, saving money for my company has become more important than ever. I could get frustrated by the fact that my company is slashing expense budgets and limiting business travel, but since they could also choose to save money by cutting me loose, I'm jumping on the money-saving bandwagon with a vengeance. No matter who foots the bill for your business travel, save money on the road with these 10 money-saving tips - your boss, or your wallet, will thank you.
NYC on the Cheap
What with the strange odors wafting up from the subway vents and the rotting smells on garbage day, NYC isn't exactly easy on the nose in the hot weather. That said, it's still one of my favorite cities, so I never complain about traveling there for work (particularly these days, when the hotel rates in NYC are seriously low). If you are planning a business trip to NYC anytime soon, don't just check rates at the usual mid-range hotels - you might be able to stay in much nicer digs for the same price.
What (Else) to Pack
I refuse to check a bag - for work or otherwise - unless absolutely necessary, which means I've got my space-saving techniques down to a science. This means everything from making the most of the space available to choosing the clothes I pack wisely. There are certain items, however, that always make it into my suitcase on business trips, sometimes at the expense of shoes or spare toiletries. Find out which must-have travel items I won't leave home without here, and be sure to add your favorites to the list.
Weather Delays in Charlotte
If you are heading out of Charlotte this morning , be sure to check with your airline or this FAA site before you head to the airport. Delays caused by weather and poor visibility has resulted in a ground stop for traffic arriving at CLT. Safe travels!
Luggage Features - What Is Most Important to You?
I don't really care about having a suiter system in my business travel luggage, but there are features (mobility, internal organization) that are important to me. What luggage features matter most to you on your business travels? Sound off in the poll below.
Need help getting more in your bag? Check out these space-saving packing tips!
