Business travel is coming back. According to an October survey by the Global Business Travel Association, 78 percent of travel managers expect the number of business trips at their company will be higher or much higher in 2023 compared with 2022.
If you have a business trip planned for the first time in a long time, here are a few reminders before you get back on the road.
Your laptop becomes your office when you’re away from home, and that makes data security a top priority. Make sure your operating software and all of the apps you need are updated with the latest security patches. Check with your company’s IT department about installing an antivirus program that will warn you about risky websites, flag suspicious emails and prevent malicious software from embedding on your computer.
If you’re going to be a frequent flier in 2023, consider signing up for the Transportation Security Administration’s PreCheck program to save time going through airport security. You can fill out a short application online, then schedule an appointment at any of more than 500 enrollment centers to complete the process, which includes a background check and fingerprinting.
Perhaps it’s been a while since you’ve packed for a business trip, so think versatility. Bring clothes that go with everything, and that you can layer, including dark-colored items that will hide stains, because spills are bound to happen. You’ll need casual clothes in the evening, whether you’ve got a work-related dinner or you’re just relaxing. Make room for items that will help you sleep, like a neck pillow, eye mask or headphones.
It’s difficult to be “off the clock” when you’re traveling for work. Setting aside some time to recharge can help you feel mentally fit and ready for the next business trip. Check with your company about its policy for “bleisure” travel, giving you a few days off at the end of the business portion of your trip to relax or go sightseeing.
As they proved during the height of the pandemic, travel advisors are always ready to assist their business and leisure clients in a rapidly changing environment.
One of the most important services that JetSetGO provides is duty of care. It’s crucial to have someone who can act quickly when an employee needs help, whether that means getting moved to safety, arranging for a new hotel or changing an airline reservation. Travel advisors provide the employer and employee with the peace of mind that comes from knowing there’s a human being to call at any hour.
