Don’t fall victim to the many business travel myths circulating among the corporate community. Stay in “the know” by reading the following debunked myths about business travel. Whether you’re a Human Resources professional making travel arrangements for an employee, or an individual looking to book a weekend trip, there are cost-saving tips in here for you!
Myth #1: Loyalty Programs Save Big Bucks
Loyalty programs may seem like the best way to save money on business trips, but in reality, they could be costing your company (or yourself) hundreds of dollars. The points you’ll earn in these programs don’t compare to the money you could save by “shopping around” for other travel deals at different agencies, especially if you aren’t a frequent traveler. Because these loyalty programs are designed to last for the life of the traveler, it can take years to earn enough points to actually earn big rewards. By then, you could have saved more money by taking advantage of deals and discounts from other travel companies and airlines. Additionally, many of these programs are designed to create brand loyalty. Sure, you may have a preferred agency or airline to travel through, but mixing it up from time to time is an effective way to save money. It doesn’t hurt to enroll in loyalty programs, but don’t limit yourself to the program.
Myth #2: Travel Agents are a Thing of the Past
It’s true that online travel sites like Expedia, Travelocity, and Hotwire are an easy way to find flights and book hotels, and of course, these sites have cost-reducing deals. But, travel agents have bigger and better networks, and bigger and better networks mean bigger and better savings. Agents will have access to special deals unknown to those browsing online through Expedia and other sites. Additionally, hiring a travel agent will cut back on the time that you and your employees and co-workers spend making these arrangements. A travel agent has professional experience booking trips and can quickly find favorable results for any travel enquiry. An agent just might be worth the extra cost, if not for the financial aspect, then at least for the concept of saving time.
Myth #3: Travel Insurance Isn’t Necessary
While emergencies don’t often happen, it’s smart to plan for them. And it’s even smarter to have insurance in the event that something catastrophic occurs. The old saying “You don’t need it ‘til you need it” has never been more true in this case. Travel insurance can cover mishaps from extremities such as evacuations or natural disasters, to smaller inconveniences, such as missing luggage. Even the most basic travel insurance package can become worthwhile in the event of an emergency. Err on the side of caution and purchase some form of travel insurance. If faced with a dire situation, you’ll be thankful you did.
Myth #4: All Business Travelers Prefer to Make Their Own Travel Arrangements
While it’s true that individuals like being in control of their life and having options at their disposal, it does not mean they enjoy booking their own travel arrangements, especially if the arrangements are made for a work-related trip. In addition, employees may not be the most experienced traveler and that could produce financial consequences for the company for two reasons. The first is that employees may have limited experience booking travel arrangements and may not know how to properly find the best deals. The second reason is that employees may not have the company’s financial restraints in mind when booking trips. It’s easy for costs to add up when an employee knows that the company will reimburse him or her for any travel expenses. Check with your employee before having them book their travel plans, and if they are going to book their own trip, ensure that proper guidelines are in place.
Myth #5: Weekend Trips are More Expensive than Weekday Trips
This statement is true… if the traveler is heading to Disney World or another resort on vacation. Most business hotels, especially those in the city or near convention centers, showrooms, and airports, are cheaper on Fridays and throughout the weekend. While a Saturday afternoon business meeting may not be as exciting as an afternoon at the happiest place on Earth, it’ll at least be cheaper. If a traveler is on a trip for an entire week, staying a day or two longer for the weekend may be an inexpensive way to have some personal travel time! Furthermore, Friday and Sunday flights are often more money than flights during other days of the week, so staying until the weekend may even save money on that air ticket.
If saving money on lodging during your next personal or work-related international business trip is of importance, then Dwellworks Corporate Housing arrangements may be the perfect solution. Enquire about Dwellworks Intercultural Services to prepare for a trip abroad as well!
If you're heading overseas for a long-term assignment, consider preparing yourself for the culture that awaits before embarking on your journey.