(BPT) – When it comes to business travel, more women are taking to the road and sky to get to their destinations. In fact, women account for 47 percent of all business travel worldwide, reports the Global Business Travel Association.
With female business travel on the rise, many brands are taking note of this growing consumer group. This year, Hertz is continuing its heritage of supporting the needs of female road warriors through award-winning customer service with its new ‘Her in Hertz’ campaign.
Before your next trip, take note of these savvy travel tips and expert advice from frequent traveler Kristina Portillo, founder of BusinessTravelLife.com.
Plan ahead
“Productive business travel starts before I leave for the airport. I can save hours during my travel day by simply planning ahead and not wasting time. Many of my travel accessories never leave my luggage. I have two sets of chargers, headphones, toiletries, etc., so the ones in my bag stay in my bag. I also pack items I need during transit on top. I always travel with a few healthy snacks, so I don’t have to waste time finding snacks at airports.”
Choose reliable brands
“In addition to planning ahead, who you chose for your business travel is equally important. As a mom and frequent business traveler, I need brands that have earned my trust and provide dependable, consistent service. That is why I, and so many other women, choose Hertz, a six-time consecutive winner of the annual Women’s Choice Award.”
Carry-on only
“I save at least an hour by traveling with only a carry-on. If I were to check my bag, I would wait in line at the airport to check it (10 minutes), then wait for it to come to baggage claim (20 minutes) when I reach my destination, and then repeat when I fly home. Traveling with only a carry-on also significantly reduces my chances of luggage being lost.”
Join travel loyalty programs
“Travel loyalty programs reward travelers for their business. These programs come with perks that make travel more efficient and enjoyable. Travel programs also reward their members with upgrades and expedited services (aka less time spent waiting in line).”
Download and use travel apps
“Travel apps are a huge time saver. I use TripIt to organize my itinerary. I use OpenTable and TripAdvisor to find places to dine. And of course, I use airline, car rental and hotel apps during my trip. My airline app will allow me to check in online, serve as a mobile boarding pass and notify me of gate changes and delays. Many hotels now have apps that offer digital check-in and digital keys.
“The goal of a productive business trip is to complete my work before I get home. Therefore, I channel my inner Rihanna and ‘Work, work, work, work, work, work’ as much as possible during my trip. Once I get through security, I find a quiet place to work (preferably a lounge). If my flight has Wi-Fi, I work during my flight. Even without Wi-Fi, I clean out my inbox and reply to email (they will send once I connect to Wi-Fi). Once I get to my hotel, I do not turn on the TV unless I’m caught up on work. As we all know, watching TV is a major distraction and time suck. On the way home, I wrap up any reports and reply to necessary emails to close out my trip.”
