Frugal Business Travel

I will be off on a business trip next week, so I thought I would hilight some tips to travel frugally (and healthfully) while on business. The main way to save money is to plan ahead, which prevents having to run out and purchase things last minute.

–Create a checklist of things to pack so that you don’t inadvertently leave important things behind. My most commonly left items are: contact lens solution, cables to hook up to the internet (although most hotels have wifi these days), and pantyhose.

–Learn to pack light- really light.  I try to avoid checking a bag in at the airport.  Not only are many airlines charging for checked bags, but having only carry-ons reduces the risk of having the bag lost or delayed.  I have a comfortable pair of shoes that are walkable for medium distances and dressy enough for a business suit. In addition, when I buy gadgets (like a digital camera), travel-friendliness is part of the consideration.

–Pack healthy snacks–and don’t forget the protein.  At airports and 30,000 feet in the air, you are a captive audience, making the markup on prices very high. When packing food and snacks, try to pack healthy things to avoid the temptation of junk food.  I bring trail mix with nuts and protein bars in case I get caught between meetings on a trip, and have to postpone lunch.  I also bring tea bags, of my special oolong tea, to unwind in the evenings.

–Ask the locals how they would go to the airport — many airports, such as DC National and Portland, now have very good train service that is easily navigable, even with (one) piece of wheeled luggage.

–Have adequate amounts of small bills and change – for tips, vending machines, local transport, and small purchases.  This will prevent you from breaking large bills or buying a candy bar just to make change.

see more at the Festival of Frugality