Tips and Tricks to Save Money on Your Next Business Trip
According to an infographic by Certify, Inc., the average trip can cost nearly $950 per person for domestic travel, while international travel can cost $2,600 per individual. In fact, the cost of the plane ticket alone makes up half of the total cost of a single business trip, with the cost of board and lodging being the second most expensive item on the travel budget list.
If you’re already cringing at the prices, then you’ll be glad to know that you can shave off a few dollars here and there with a little creativity. In this article, we’ll discuss a few tips and tricks that can help you save money on your next business trip, whether you’re funding yourself or have it all covered by your employer.
Take Advantage of Rewards Programs
According to an advice from Anthony Saladino, as cited in an article on Lifehack, you should choose and use credit cards that have aggressive rewards programs. Then, charge every single thing that you need, whether it’s for your personal or business needs, to earn points while making your usual purchases. Once you’ve racked up enough points, you can trade them in for plane tickets as well as board and lodging.
Downgrade Your Ticket and Accommodations
If you really want to save money for more important goals, then it’s time to sacrifice a few luxuries and switch to Economy Class airplane tickets and hotel rooms. You might even find that they aren’t as bad as you initially thought. Just make sure you don’t scrimp so much that you end up staying in an unsafe part of town or a vehicle so uncomfortable that you have to endure body pain for the rest of your trip.
Pick something that will ensure you’re still comfortable while avoiding any expensive extras that you can live without. Try looking for mid-range accommodations online using sites such as Traveloka.
Be Careful Where You Convert Your Currency
Though it may be super convenient to just walk up to the currency converter counters at airports or hotels, you’ll wind up getting way less for your money by using their services. Though some may say they offer 0% commission, you still end up on the losing side because they’ll give you a drastically reduced exchange rate, according to an article on Quick and Dirty Tips.
Instead, withdraw cash from an ATM that covers your network, since they tend to have much lower fees. Better yet, sign up for a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees so that you can sidestep these costs completely, according to an article by Melissa Lambarena on NerdWallet.
In Short: Always Think Before Transacting
Though you’ll have to do a lot of planning and research in order to get the best deals, your wallet will thank you for the extra effort later on. Always look for new ways to make the most out of your money, and you’ll be able to afford even more business trips—and perhaps even a personal vacation—without breaking the bank.
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