From keeping better track of your expenses to taking advantage of hotel freebies, these tips can help you save money on business travel.
1. Don't Pay Luggage Fees
The easiest way to avoid this is by making sure that you don't need to check any luggage in the first place. But if you are going on an extended trip or have to travel with samples, there are a few ways to avoid having to pay checked luggage fees:
- Get status! Most airlines won't make you pay a fee for the first checked bag if you have status or have purchased a business class or better ticket.
- Check the baggage fees for the airlines, and fly with carriers who don't charge fees.
2. Book Travel in Advance
If you can plan your travel schedule in advance, don't wait to
book your flight until the last minute, as rates tend to get higher closer to a travel date. Find out more ways to
save on flights.
3. Stay in Hotels with Kitchens
If you need a
business hotel for more than a night or two, opting to stay in an extended stay facility can really help you save money on meals. Hit the local grocery store and buy some cheap do-it-yourself meals that you can prepare in your room. If your company pays you a set meal allowance whether you use it or not, you can actually head home having made some extra money if you skip dining out and are frugal about your grocery store picks.
4. Use Public Transportation
It's definitely not an option everywhere, but in cities with reliable subways and buses, do as the locals do and get around town via public transportation. Even if you have to take a cab/shuttle from the airport initially, try making your way around town via the subway or bus once you've unloaded your luggage.5. Save on Internet Fees
Though most
airports offer Wi-Fi via providers such as T-Mobile and Boingo, there are a number who offer free wireless Internet to travelers. If you travel through a number of airports on a frequent basis, it's worth signing up for a monthly subscription to a Wi-Fi provider, as the daily rates are much, much higher. If you are footing your own hotel tab, try to stay in hotels with free Internet. Many hotels without free in-room access do have free service in lobby/common areas, so take advantage. Most business centers in hotels won't charge for you to get online (just to print), making them a great option for those who don't need unlimited Internet access.
6. Avoid Valet Parking
Whether at the hotel or at a restaurant, stay away from valet parking if at all possible.7. Use Long-Term Parking Lots
Yes, it's convenient to drive into the garage closest to your departure gate, but the bill at the end of your business trip may give your boss a coronary. Save money - whether it's yours or the company's - by heading to the airport a little earlier and using one of the off-site parking lots. You can negotiate rates and usually get a vendor to match a competitor's price or coupon.8. Eat the Complimentary Breakfast
If your hotel offers free breakfast, eat it! You'll be less likely to need to buy snacks mid-morning, particularly if you grab a piece of fruit and a muffin to take with you on your way out (one or two takeaways is OK, but please no stuffing of your pockets or briefcase!).9. Order the Compact Car
Lock yourself into the cheapest rate, but ask for an upgrade (if you are a
frequent renter, they'll likely do this for you automatically) when you go to pick up your vehicle. Car rental companies generally have a lot more of the sedan-sized cars, so there will usually be one available. Best of all, you can usually get the upgrade free of charge just by asking.
10. Don't Opt for the Rental Car Add-Ons
Skip the GPS system add-on, particularly if you are renting a car for a longer duration. If you really need GPS, it may be worth it to invest in your very own system to take with you on business trips. Don't pay for gas in advance, either - fill the car up yourself to save money.
