Top gifts and tips for business travelers

Business travel can send individuals across the globe and back. While packing smart and keeping safe are always important, there are also a few gadgets and other items that can ensure smooth traveling. Consider one or more of these gifts for the business traveler on your gift list.

Navigation Systems Such as GPS Tracking Systems to Keep Business Travelers on the Right Path
Business travel often means visiting new or unfamiliar areas; while public transportation can sometimes alleviate getting lost, it’s not perfect. A GPS tracking system can help travelers to find the right destination – as well as locate relevant stops along the way, such as for gasoline or food.

Priority Pass, Airlines for Access to Airport Club Lounges

While air travel can be an efficient way to get from point A to point B, it can also mean flight delays and cancellations. A pass to an airport club lounge allows corporate travelers access to a quiet and relaxing place to work, hold a meeting or relax. One-day passes can be purchased through most airlines for access to their lounges.

Priority Pass is an independent airport lounge access program in which members can access any of 600 airport lounges around the world. Three membership levels are available; in addition, some high-end American Express credit card holders are eligible for free membership in Priority Pass.

TSA Approved Luggage Locks to Keep Items Safe

Luggage locks are essential for business travelers. Both checked baggage and carry on luggage should be kept locked when not in use to avoid items being stolen. TSA-approved luggage locks are a good choice for business travelers — not only do they keep luggage secure, but in the case of checked luggage, the TSA has a device that can open and refasten the locks without damaging or removing them.

Online Language Courses for International Corporate Travel

Travelers who venture overseas on business may require rudimentary or in depth knowledge of a foreign language. While face to face courses are available, another, more convenient option may be online language courses. Language instruction such as Rosetta Stone provides an interactive way for travelers to learn a language at their convenience with computer software and compact audio discs.

Credit Card Gift Cards for Travel Purchases

A gift card allows the recipient to use it however they choose. Consider purchasing a credit card gift card, such as Visa gift cards, for use on the road. These cards can be used at the airport to purchase snacks or souvenirs, or put toward a special dinner or other items.

Whether they are frequent travelers or new to corporate travel, business travelers will appreciate one or more of these gifts.

How to Find Cheap Airline Flights

The ability to search through hundreds of flights each day, in effort to snag the best the deal, is a task that many people do not possess. Although a quick search through Expedia.com, CheapTickets.com and Priceline.com can reveal some of the cheapest flights, they are not the only options available. Here are some ways to find cheaper tickets without wading through a vast array of website propaganda.

Fly From Smaller Airports

Although they might be out of the way and an hour’s drive farther, the price difference can be astounding. Do not assume that the big airport hubs are the only option. Often times a highly populated area will have more than one airport in the surrounding region.

Fly with Smaller Airlines

Going with a large airline has its benefits, but opting for a smaller airline can reap massive savings. Most of the time, these airlines are not even listed on major ‘cheap ticket’ websites. Call or visit the airport website to see what airlines fly out. Chances are that some of them will be unknown to the vast majority of travelers, yet provide the same services for a lower price.

Change Departure Time and Date

Traveling and flying during the most congestion time leads to higher prices. Choose weekdays rather than weekends, mornings rather than afternoons and late night flights rather than daytime flights to get a discount on price. Flexibility can save a lot of money in the long run where airline tickets are concerned.

Visit Major Airline Websites

Booking a flight directly from an airline’s website is usually cheaper than doing it through other services. If the airline is having a sale or a discount on certain flights, this is where to find them.

Think Outside of the Box

Finding cheap airline tickets is relatively easy once one learns how to think outside the box. Flying during unconventional times, at smaller airports and unknown airlines can save hundreds of dollars each flight. Being aware of sales and possible discounts offered through each airline is also a money saver when it comes to plane rides.