Are you finally taking a work trip away from the office? Whether it’s to meet perspective clients, attend a training seminar, or any reason to travel for work, going on your first trip can be daunting. Here is a breakdown of what to expect — as well as some advice for how to prepare.
You’re probably wondering, what all will you be paying for and what will the company cover? This is akey question to ask. The answer depends on the company.Every policy can differ. In the U.S., the average cost of business travel per day is $325, so make sure you know what to expect.
Typically, expenses incurred on a “work trip” or “business trip” are covered by the company. Necessary expenses such as airfare, car or limousine rental, meal costs, and parking fees are covered with many companies. You can expect to pay for additional services such asbaggage fees and alcohol. Also, it’s important to note, some companies work on a reimbursement system, and you may have to pay for everything upfront.
How can you know what your company covers? First, check the travel policy. It should provide the rules and an outlook for what to expect. Be sure to know beforehand what receipts will need to be saved, your itinerary, and theallowances. If the company does not have one —60% of companies have a corporate travel policy — check with a travel manager orsupervisor.
Once you have an idea of what the company does, it’s time to prep on your end. A successful business trip begins with thorough planning.Start by organizing travel papers, business materials, and any necessary equipment. Keep essential documents —such as plane tickets, hotel information, and presentation materials — on you or close by at all times. Same goes for equipment. From company laptops to flash drives, don’t drop the ball and misplacecrucial items before the big presentation.
What’s important to keep in mind beyond preparation? Have fun. Be sure to include some free time in your schedule. Not only does this make a big difference when things go wrong—they inevitably do— but it allows you to see the sights. Having a flexible schedule, even if just an hour, helps with unforeseen delays or for visiting a well-known local eatery or landmark. Setting aside time to relax and gain a deeper appreciation for the place you’re visiting can make a big difference in the trip’s success.
For more answers to commonly asked questions and other helpful tips, please see the accompanying resource.
[Sources]
https://cboardinggroup.com/11-tips-to-crush-your-first-business-trip/
https://travelparlor.com/week-long-biz-trip-prep/
https://www.primermagazine.com/2013/earn/how-to-prepare-for-your-first-business-trip
https://travellingforwork.com/how-to-prepare-for-your-first-business-trip/
https://www.travelperk.com/blog/10-questions-to-ask-when-traveling-for-work/
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