Flying Economy for Even Less

The National Business Travelers Association, or NBTA, reports that business travel has dropped 10% since 2008 and is being scrutinized by the press and by politicians as an lavish expense. Actually, it’s easier to persuade your prospect when you meet them in person, and business travel creates jobs . What’s needed is an effort to streamline the wasted money rather than try to wipe out business trips entirely.

So if you travel by air, here are a few ways to find a more economical plane ticket :

1. Be flexible   when you request dates to fly. If you’re willing to catch a red eye or even a flight during the off-season, you’ll end up with a much better deal .
2. Sign up to receive deals and alerts by email from your favourite(a) airline or from a number of airlines.
3. Use a frequent flier mile program.
4. Double check for any hidden fees before choosing an airline .
5. Think about flying stand-by, especially if you’re flying during the offseason.
6. Fly coach or economy class.
7. Use credit cards with rewards that are related to travel .
8. Ask about senior or student discounts .  Some flights are reserved solely for students and youth.
9. Avoid booking fees by checking the airline’s website directly .
10. Use the same airline both ways.
11. Check out airports other than your destination’s main airport.
12. research the option of renting a car through your airline—many offer discounts on packages.
13. Fly smaller discount airlines.
14. Accumulate knowledge. Ask about airline restrictions so that you’ll know how to get a cheaper ticket from your favorite airline.
15. Check out a consolidator’s website like lowestfare.com, cheapseats.com, or cheaptickets.com.
16. Book in advance . Generally, the earlier you book the better your deal will be.
17. When you confirm your flight the night before, pay for your bag online.  You’ll end up paying less this way.

Enduring a little discomfort, such as flying red eye, flying stand by, or flying with one or more stops can can be more cost effective for you or your company. Plan in advance by booking early, or use frequent flier miles. In the end, a little thrift improves the public’s perception of business travel altogether. And in a climate where people are hesitant to invest, this could really make your company stand out from the crowd.

Author: Lisa Brown is a Sales and Marketing Associate for Almost Home USA, a corporate housing company, whose goal is to provide such excellent experiences that clients feel almost home.