How to save on your next business trip!

Business travel is distinctively different from a leisure trip. A business traveler needs to be disciplined and very mindful of the travelling expenses. While it may not be feasible to avoid business travel expenses altogether, the key is to minimize them while making the most of each business trip. The prudency lies in sticking to a budget and curtailing unnecessary expenses.

However, as a business traveler if you find it extremely difficult to keep a tight rein on your pocket, then we suggest you follow these tips to breeze through your official tour.

How to save on your business trip

• Do your research
• Work out your budget
• Choose the right accommodation
• Opt for the right mobile phone plan
• Check on your commute cost

Do your research well

Your business trips could be several times in a month at the same location, or it might require you to travel to several different locations. Depending on your business needs research all available travel options to determine the one which works best for you. Brand loyalty with one hotel group or airlines might get you great discounts. So, try sticking to the brand if you are satisfied with the services.

Work out a budget
If your travel expenses are going out of hand, then first and foremost take the time out to make a budget plan for the next few months. Make a rough estimate of expenses including travel and hotel bookings per month. Book lower hotel rates and avoid business class flights (unless you are getting a free upgrade!). Spend wisely and try to work within your budget goals.

Pick the right accommodation
Accommodation forms a major part of your travel budget. However, on your business trip you would certainly want your hotel to be well connected and have basic minimum amenities. Thanks to reputed branded hotel chains, this too isn't a worry anymore.

For instance, if you are traveling to Bangalore and are looking for good business hotels in MG Road Bangalore, (one of the prime locations in the city) opting for OYO Rooms, India's largest branded network of hotels, is a great idea. Consider booking business hotels in MG Road Bangalore via OYO Rooms,which has a vast list of budget hotels. Of course, while booking less expensive hotels, you do not want to compromise on factors such as cleanliness and basic amenities. Rest assured. OYO offers rooms at affordable rates, along with standardizedfacilities.

Opt for the right mobile plan
Your phone often is your major medium of contact on your business trips. It is advisable to sign up for the right mobile phone plan on your official tour. Be mindful of the roaming charges and mobile internet plans and choose packages that best suit your needs. Switching to Wifi mode and switching off the mobile data is highly recommended, when Wifi is available.Similarly look for customized packages post your research and settle down for the one that suits your needs.

Check on your commute cost
If you are new to the city take the help of online maps to get a fair idea of different locales. Also, branded taxi chains offer shared services nowadays that come in handy and easy on pocket. As much as possible, choose less expensive public transportation and use shuttle services, if available, rather than booking a taxi.

In case, two or more employees are traveling together to the same location, then try booking the flights on the same day and time so that you can share a taxi. An extravagant business trip can take you miles away from your profit projections. Eventually, keep your personal expenditures, and business accounts separate during business travel.
Armed with all these tips, you can significantly reduce your expenses and hence increase the efficiency of the company. Even if your trip is for a company you are working with, then keeping travel costs low will help create a positive vibe with your employer and they will trust you more as well as respect your sense of ethics.