According to the NBTA, or National Business Travel Association, business travel has dropped 10% from 2008, and is being scrutinized by politicians and the press as an unnecessary expenditure. The article goes on to say, and rightly so, that persuasion is easiest when done in person and business travel creates jobs. What’s needed is an effort to streamline the waste, not eliminate business travel altogether. So if you travel by air, here are a few ways to find a less expensive airline ticket:
1. Be flexible. If you’re willing to catch a red eye, or even fly during the off season, you’ll end up with a much better deal.
2. Book in advance. Generally, the earlier you book the better your deal will be.
3. Sign up to receive deals and alerts by email from your preferred airline, or from a number of airlines.
4. Use credit cards with rewards that are related to travel.
5. Sign up for a frequent flier mile program.
6. Check the airline’s website directly to avoid booking fees.
7. Assess any hidden fees associated with the flight before choosing an airline.
8. Many airlines offer travel packages that include discounted rental cars.
9. Consider flying stand-by, if you’re flying during the off season.
10. Fly coach or economy class.
In essence, a little discomfort (such as flying red eye, flying stand-by, or flying with one or more stops) can lead to big savings for your company. Also planning in advance through the use of frequent flier miles, and booking a flight early can help your company’s bottom line. A little thrift improves the public’s view of business travel altogether. Which in a climate where people are hesitant to invest, could really make your company stand out from the crowd.
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