Originally Posted by
Nifton
Hi guys,
I've just landed a support role with international travel (North Europe & America) I have only ever traveled as a tourist previously, albeit quite extensively.
I'd love some general pointers of how to make the most of my traveling, I.E best rewards from hotels groups to stay with, credit or charge card options, itinerary management websites and even essential items to pack (I know it should be common sense, but even on pleasure trips I always neglect something important).
So a few quick details, I'll be based in Sheffield, and will be abroad perhaps 1 week in 5 or 6. Company does not provide credit facilities, nor do they book tickets or Hotels, it's all down to me.
Thanks in advance for helping me get my head round this myriad of info!
The key things I would do:
1. Learn your company's travel rules inside and out. What class of ticket do they allow, is there a cap on per diems? Do they pay actuals, and therefore need receipts, do they have any corporate rates at hotels, are you travelling on your own or with others, etc.
2. Find out where you will be going - is it the same half dozen places, or is it 100s? What hotels are int eh cities you will go to, and close to where you will need to be for work.
3. What airports will you need to fly to, especially North America? Connecting in the US is a bigger pain than usual, so if you can, pick an airline (and thus frequent flyer plan) that fly directly to where you need to be.
4. Work out what you want to be able to do - is it upgrade, free personal flights, free goodies, ability to board early etc.