Tag: business travel

Business Travel Sustainability: All About “Green” Corporate Travel

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date February 28, 2023

Sustainable Business Travel - Green Corporate Travel

While the COVID-19 pandemic caused a massive healthcare crisis and shrank the global economy, it also had an upside: it drastically reduced environmental pollution on a global scale. Reduced energy demands resulted in decreased fossil fuel consumption and fewer particulate emissions. This led to improved air and water quality, among other environmental benefits. And what’s not to like about blue skies and the absence of rush hour traffic?

This environmental upside brought sustainability into the limelight. Many businesses, more than 36% of surveyed companies, according to Business Travel News, increased their commitment to sustainable practices, including sustainable travel, as a result of the pandemic.

What is sustainable business travel?

Simply put, sustainable business travel is traveling in a less environmentally impactful manner. As consumer consciousness grows and government and industry regulations drive changes in the travel industry, corporate travel managers are increasingly responsible for sourcing sustainable vendors and incorporating sustainability into travel programs.

From selecting carbon-neutral travel options to purposeful business travel, sustainability requires the responsible consumption of resources.

5 Ways to implement sustainable business travel

If you’re wondering how to travel sustainably, there are various ways to implement sustainable business travel practices into your corporate travel program. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Implement Purposeful Travel Policies

Adopting a purposeful travel mindset encourages companies to look at travel as an investment rather than a cost. Identify the types of travel your company does and evaluate its importance. Can certain meetings or trips be combined to conserve resources and reduce carbon footprint? Could some business trips be shortened? Is there a way to identify objectives for each business trip to measure effectiveness? Asking these questions and others will help you keep conservation at the heart of your business travel program and make the most of your travelers’ time on the road.

2. Decrease Your Air Travel Carbon Footprint

Sustainability, as it applies to air travel, mostly focuses on decreasing the amount of greenhouse gas “Scope 3” emissions, as categorized by the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol. These are emissions released by airport operational and employee ground vehicles, airport utilities, and aircraft travel, with the latter accounting for about 50% of total airline Scope 3 emissions.

While a clear, single emissions reporting system is somewhere down the road, there are several simple ways to decrease your air travel carbon footprint in the meantime:

Select greener airline vendors. For travel in 2023, Delta, KLM Royal Dutch, Alaska, Xiamen, Cathay Pacific, and American Airlines received the highest marks.

Opt for greener aircraft. More fuel-efficient planes, planes that use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)—a biofuel with a smaller carbon footprint—and planes with lower operating costs fall into the greener aircraft category.

Touted as the most fuel efficient, the Airbus a350-900’s range is 8,000 nautical miles and it can fly for up to 17 hours before refueling. Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner is about 20% more fuel efficient than comparable aircraft, and the Airbus a320neo is the most fuel efficient single-aisle aircraft.

Book nonstop flights. Direct flights require fewer resources as there are fewer takeoffs and landings and no route overlap between your point of departure and destination.

3. Stay at Hotels that Employ Sustainability Measures

Many pandemic protocols that hotels adapted prevail in the post-COVID-19 environment. Sustainability trends that “stuck” include asking travelers to modify their resource consumption behavior, such as reusing towels and sheets.

Sustainability importance increased significantly in the hotel industry; Marriott’s requests for carbon footprint information almost tripled during the pandemic, an upward trend Hilton Worldwide and IHG Hotels & Resorts also experienced.

As with airlines, there is no single agnostic hotel industry resource for measuring carbon footprints. However, there are sustainability tools hotels can use now, such the Hotel Water Measurement Initiative, the Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative, and ENERGY STAR’s Portfolio Manager tracking tool.

If you’re investigating more environmentally friendly hotels as part of your travel sustainability requirements, look for your preferred vendor’s green certifications and participations in programs such as LEED, Green Globe, Green Key, Audubon Green Lodging, Green Seal, EarthCheck, and Travelife. Additional sustainability measures to look for include:

Property-wide recycling. This may include standard glass, paper, and cardboard recycling back of house as well as in-room recycling bins and use of recycled paper and donating unused toiletries to local charities.

Resource conservation. Low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads, as well as auditing water use, guest towel and bedsheet reuse, energy efficient light bulbs, and onsite alternative energy sources, such as solar panels, increase hotel stay sustainability.

Emphasis on organics. From coffee to flowers and food and beverage options, use of organics not only lessens chemical impacts on the planet but also supports fair-trade and local vendors.

4. Consider Sustainable Ground Transportation Options

Transportation is the largest contributor of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions—about 27% according to the EPA. As industry-governing bodies take more significant measures to increase sustainability and government and private agencies promote the use of alternative energy vehicles, markets are responding accordingly.

The electric car market is projected to increase 12.9% by 2029 and car rental agencies are increasing investments in electric vehicles (EVs) and charging stations.

However, EVs remain problematic for business travel except where charging stations are more available. If you’re opting to incorporate electric vehicles as part of your travel sustainability program, check hotels and lots for charging stations or consider EVs when trips require less than 40 miles of driving.

Hybrid vehicles, therefore, may be a more sensible option for increasing the sustainability of your travel program. Hybrids are also more widely available; major car rental companies Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, Alamo, and SIXT offer hybrid vehicles.

With the Global Business Travel Association projecting a 6.8% increase in business travel car rental costs this year, these alternatives may stretch your ground transportation budget and boost sustainability:

Buddy up. Encourage your travelers to share rental cars when traveling to the same destination, thereby decreasing emissions and costs.

Consider location. Book hotel stays and meeting venues with sustainable travel options in mind. Look for hotels with shuttles, near trains, and within walking distance, as well as public transportation and ride sharing where your risk management program allows.

Negotiate discounts on hybrid vehicles. Revisit your rental car contracts annually to ensure you’re getting optimal rates on greener vehicles.

5. Educate Travelers on Sustainable Business Travel Practices

The number of travelers wanting sustainable options is high—90% according to a consumer study. Of utmost importance to travelers are decreasing environmental impacts and supporting local cultures, communities, and economies.

Inform your business travelers of newly-adopted practices and teach them how to travel sustainably themselves. Organizations can even implement reward programs to encourage adoption of sustainable business travel practices.

And although their itineraries may not include the Galapagos Islands, travelers can tread a little lighter on the planet. This checklist offers ways to increase sustainability on a personal level.

Why is sustainability travel important?

While business travel is often a key measurement of economic success, it’s important to remember that travel also has social and environmental impacts.

For the altruistic, sustainable business travel practices protect and preserve our natural resources for the future. For those more driven by bottom-lines, sustainability sells. Business Insider reports that today’s shoppers “want more than just quality, often looking for products and brands that align with their personal values. … Protecting the environment topped that list.”

While there are many additional reasons to adopt sustainable business travel practices, your team needs to understand why it’s something your company is advocating for. Getting your employees on board with what you are trying to accomplish is the best way to reach your goals of a more environmentally-friendly corporate travel program. Once educated, your business travelers will be more aware of and make greener choices that benefit your company, their travel destination locales, and the environment at large.

How can a travel management company help implement sustainable business travel policies?

Christopherson’s corporate travel experts can help you implement green corporate travel policies that encourage eco-friendly behaviors while traveling.

As your corporate travel management partner, we will collaborate, guide, and assist as you seek out vendor partners who meet your sustainable business travel goals.

Our experienced corporate travel agents and your integrated online booking tool can help travelers book sustainable hotels, flights, and ground transportation.

And our AirPortal technology digitally aligns your entire corporate travel program by integrating those policies and plans so you can succeed.

To learn more about Christopherson, contact us today.

Tags business travel, corporate travel, corporate travel management, sustainable business travel

Business Travel Featured Travel Tips

Your Ultimate Car Rental Guide from Our Travel Experts

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date June 20, 2022

Renting a car is often considered the most convenient and independent way to get around on your business trip. But for first-time or inexperienced renters, the car rental process, with its potentially numerous add-on options and lengthy contracts, can feel a bit overwhelming. Luckily, Christopherson has years of experience managing car rental policies for corporations across the country. We can help you have the most efficient and cost-effective car rental policy. Below, we’ve compiled our top car rental tips for corporate travel.

9 Basics of Car Rentals

Start here for the basics of car rentals. If this is your first time renting, or it’s been a while, this review will come in handy when you show up at the rental counter or get behind the wheel.

Things to Know When Picking Up Your Rental

1. Airport vs Non-airport Location

– When traveling for business, it’s always most convenient to pick up your rental car at the airport. Be sure to verify that the company you’re renting with has an on-site location or a shuttle to their off-site facility. You don’t want to be stuck scrambling for a taxi or Lyft to take you to your rental car.

2. Insurance Coverage

— Your company’s corporate travel policy will outline how to handle car rental insurance. If your company does not have a policy or an agreement with preferred vendors, talk to your travel or HR team before traveling to know how you should handle car rental insurance.

3. Drivers under the age of 25

– If you are a business traveler under the age of 25, your company may have to pay extra. Check your company’s travel policy as young drivers can be negotiated in a contract and no additional fees will be added.

4. Extra drivers

– On occasion, two or more business travelers may share a rental. Consider designating one driver to keep costs low or consult with your travel manager on how to handle extra drivers.

5. Verify the return location

— Typically your return location will be the same place you picked up the car, but verify the drop-off, especially if you’re flying out of a different airport. It never hurts to double-check and you don’t want to get caught unaware as you’re trying to make your return flight.

6. Bring your own extras

– Most travelers can bypass the extras like GPS or satellite radio. After all, that’s what phones are for. Your corporate travel policy may also not allow these add-ons and you could end up paying for them personally.

Things to Know When Driving and Returning the Vehicle

7. Stay on the road

– It seems simple enough, but when the customer service agent reviews what you can and cannot do, pay attention. Most car rental companies prohibit the use of their cars on unpaved roads. Insurance could be voided by driving off-road.

8. Fuel up

– Fill the tank prior to your return. Car rental companies will ask if you want to purchase a full tank of gas prior to you returning it, but many times you don’t use a full tank of gas or can’t time it right to return the car on empty. As you leave the airport, pay attention to where the nearest gas station is so you can stop prior to your return. If you have opted to return the car full of gas but do not, the refuel rate can be two to three times as much as the price at a local gas station. And again, check your company’s travel policy. Some companies will not reimburse this charge as it is considered extra fees.

9. Plan ahead for tolls

– Many cities have toll roads and bridges. Most car rental companies provide electronic toll collection programs integrated into the vehicle, but charge you a per-day fee to use them in addition to the toll fees. These usually are not on the final bill and are charged later. As it can be difficult to find a receipt for expense reimbursement for tolls, make sure you know how the receipt will be delivered. If no electronic collection option is integrated, tolls will be charged to the license plate number, which is sent to the car rental company and will be tracked back to you or your company. In some states, this is the only way a toll is invoiced. When there is a toll booth, it’s best to have cash, but some accept credit cards.

10. Avoid syncing your phone to your rental car, if possible

— Though it’s convenient, syncing your phone to a rental car can leave your information exposed to the next renter. If you need to, be sure you know how to unsync it once you’ve returned it.

Travel Experts’ Tips for Saving Money on Your Next Car Rental

For frequent travelers, finding ways to cut costs each trip can mean significant savings in the long run. Just like hotels and airfare, there are ways to save money on rental cars — especially if you plan on regularly renting. Read below for some of the easiest ways to save money on rental cars. For more extensive trip budgeting or help planning an economical travel program, reach out to one of our team members for a consultation.

Steps To Take To Save Big on Your Next Rental

Have a membership – It’s easy to join a membership program for a car rental company. When you first sign-up, important information like a driver’s license number, contact information, insurance, etc., are filled out and completed ahead of time. Everything concerning your account will then be fully automated and ready to go next time you need to book a car. Additionally, being a member typically includes deals that keep your overall rates lower. This brings us to our next point…
Rent with your company’s preferred car rental company – If your company has a managed travel program, they will likely have a preferred car rental company. The three major U.S. car rental companies, each with two or more large brands, are Enterprise Holdings Inc. (Enterprise & National), Avis Budget Group, and Hertz. Christopherson can help you select the partner that’s right for you and negotiate a contract that meets your overall travel program goals.
Take 30 seconds to walk around the car and inspect it before renting. Every time a rental car is returned, it is inspected for damage, cleaned, and put back on the lot. Or at least it should. If there is damage to the car before you rent it, it likely hasn’t been seen or claimed yet. Meaning, you could be held responsible for the damage and its repair costs when you return the car. Car rental employees work hard, but small details can easily fall through the cracks. Be extra diligent about the state of the car before you take responsibility for it.
- Also, check for errors inside the car. Make sure the gas tank is full and there are no warning lights on the dashboard, too. Note any damage to upholstery, finishes, and other interior surfaces.

Sneaky Surcharges You Should Know About

Rental car companies are well-known to have extensive surcharges and hidden fees, to drive up the initial “sticker” price of your rental. Be aware of the following fees, as well as ways to plan ahead to avoid them when possible:

Drop-Off Charges — An extra fee is usually charged if a car is returned to a different location than where it was picked up. This fee varies by location. In some instances there is no charge, however, you could pay more than $1,000 for picking a car up at LAX and dropping it off at JFK plus around $0.35 per mile. If your corporation has a car rental contract make sure it notes a “one-way” rate. The rates will be higher than your normal corporate rate but will save money in the long run.
The 24-Hour Clock — If you rent your car on Wednesday and return it on Thursday, most companies charge you one day only if you return it within 24 hours. Some companies will give you a 29-minute grace period before hourly charges kick in and after 90 – 120 minutes you may be charged for the full extra day. Some rental car companies are also now charging a late return fee of $10 per day. Make sure you check the terms and conditions in your rental documents.
One-Day Surcharges — Picking a car up only for one day will cost you more if those days are Monday through Thursday. Because of the yield management process, it is more expensive for the car rental company if you pick your car up in the morning on Monday through Thursday and return it the same day. It eliminates the possibility of another traveler needing that car for two or more days at a time. The one-day surcharges are $5 to $7 over the normal daily rate and are “hidden” in the rate so you will not recognize you are being charged extra. Corporations can sometimes get this fee reduced or waived when negotiating a car rental contract.

Hopefully, this list gave you a few additional tips for the next time you rent a car for business travel.

Car Rental Safety Tips

While business travelers are generally aware of air and hotel safety precautions, not many of us think about car safety. However, staying vigilant and cautious with your rental car can prevent crime or accident from derailing your next corporate trip. Here are 8 tips to remember:

Keep your keys safe.

Keep your car keys with you and out of sight at all times. Years ago, car rental companies eliminated their logos from the cars, as they became targets for theft. While this precaution is helpful, you can still spot travelers by their car rental keys. Usually the ring has both sets of keys on it and a big tag with the make, model, color, and license number on it. Since you are traveling, a thief will know your car may have valuables in it.

Choose your parking space wisely.

Be careful when parking at events where thieves will know you will be gone for a set period of time (such as sporting or entertainment). Park “trunk out.” If storing items in your trunk, this makes your trunk visible in an aisle where more people are apt to see suspicious activity. When parking on the street, choose a busy area, i.e. in front of a store, hotel entrance, under a street lamp, or a busy corner. If the street seems too vulnerable, park in a parking garage where the likelihood of being broken into is less. However, still be aware of your surroundings. Being in a place where people can’t see you leaves you open to other acts of violence.

Load and hide your stuff before you reach your destination.

Everything you plan on leaving in the car should be stowed and hidden before you arrive at your destination. If, upon arrival, you take the action of stowing your valuables, you are exposing your possessions for all to see.

Don’t leave any possessions visible in the car.

It takes a thief five seconds to smash the glass, grab your valuables, and be out of sight, even with the alarm sounding. Keep in mind, it’s not only valuables in plain sight that are a target, but any bag or box may have something valuable to a thief. Even if replaceable, you are left with a broken window, which now you must deal with the car rental company to report the damage.

Unload your stuff away from your parking space.

If you have to remove luggage or valuables out of the trunk, do so away from your parking space, if possible. Should a thief see you taking it out, he/she will know that you’ll likely return with it, leaving you vulnerable as a target.

Check for your valuables as soon as you return to your car.

If you have any suspicion, do a quick check of your items before leaving. A common tactic of thieves is to take a camera out of the camera bag but leave the bag. You are then long gone before you notice the missing item and can’t pinpoint when it might have been taken.

Take your time upon return.

Most major car rental companies have automatic check-in and readily available receipts from the rental return attendant. But take a moment and really check the car. Make sure you have all your belongings out of the consoles and compartments.

Contact Christopherson Business Travel to Drive Happy

Hopefully, these tips provide a starting point for helping you rent cars for business travel more easily and affordably in the future. To learn how Christopherson Business Travel can help you save money and time with your business travel program, contact our travel team today.

Tags business travel, car rental tips

Business Travel Travel Management Travel News

How to Support Your Business Travelers During The Coronavirus Outbreak

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date February 27, 2020

Originally published Feb 27, 2020 at 4:02 PM, updated March 09, 2020

As the coronavirus continues to affect business travel, we want to provide corporate travel managers with helpful tools, resources, and information to best support their travelers. For the most up-to-date information on the coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

CDC Travel Guidelines

The following warning and alert classifications have been outlined by the CDC. We encourage travel managers to review the warnings and make informed decisions to protect their travelers.

Warning Level 3

Nonessential travel to these highest-risk locations should be avoided. This currently includes China, South Korea, Italy, and Iran.

Alert Level 2

Due to sustained community transmission of the virus in Japan, the CDC recommends that older adults and those suffering from chronic medical conditions postpone travel to these areas. Corporate travel managers could also consider adding an additional level of approval for these business trips by having senior leaders review them on a case-by-case basis.

Watch Level 1

The CDC recommends practiving usual precaustions when traveling to Hong Kong at this time. The CDC will continue to update its recommendations on their website. Companies with employees traveling to level 1 watch areas may want to consider implementing additional health and security protocols to ensure traveler safety.

Personal Travel

While personal travel does fall outside the realms of a corporate travel manager’s purview, companies may want to encourage employees to travel with caution and remain aware of this ongoing situation. If an employee has personal plans to visit or has visited one of the warning level areas, you could consider having them self-quarantine for 14 days. If an employee participates in any travel, regardless of the area, and shows signs of being sick, you could also ask them to follow the same 14-day self-quarantine.

Reminder to Only Book Within Approved Corporate Tools

Travel managers should reiterate the importance of booking business travel within the organization’s approved corporate booking tools and enforce these policies. Booking within policy ensures you always know where your travelers are so that you can best support them and communicate critical information in a timely manner.

Review Your Risk Management Policy and Update if Needed

Be sure you have included a protocol for an infectious disease outbreak like this in your risk management plan. Events that could trigger action include travelers becoming infected or being stranded in an infected area. Do you have a plan in place to quickly and appropriately support your travelers?

Remind Travelers to Follow These Best Practices While Traveling

Ask business travelers to follow these actions recommended by the World Health Organization when traveling.

Wash hands frequently
Maintain social distancing
Avoid touching eyes nose and mouth
Practice respiratory hygiene
If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early
Stay informed and follow the advice given by your healthcare provider

Additional Resources

For more resources to help you plan and respond to this situation, visit the CDC’s Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019.

BCD Travel also has a current list of airline updates and advisories by country.

The information presented here is up-to-date as of March 9 and is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Christopherson does not give recommendations on the prudence of travel to affected areas. Our aim is to provide helpful information that allows companies and travelers to make informed decisions. As the situation continues to unfold, companies can access real-time information through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization website.

Tags business travel, business travel risk management, business travelers, Christopherson Business Travel, risk management

Business Travel Travel News Travel Tips

How Business Travelers Can Spot Human Trafficking In Airports

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date November 5, 2018

Human trafficking has over the years become a global and multi-million dollar enterprise. As one of the world’s fastest growing criminal industries, the trade and its signs are largely unspoken. For instance, did you know that according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), nearly 25 million people are currently living in modern day slavery? That’s roughly the population of New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston and Phoenix combined. And while most people assume it’s an issue affecting only other countries, a surprisingly large portion exists within the United States. For example, 83% of people forced into prostitution in the U.S. are from the U.S.

So why is a business travel management blog discussing human trafficking? As with any global business, international and domestic travel is necessary and usually frequent. In fact, the United Nations’ Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimates that 60% of victims – that’s roughly 15 million people – are transported across international borders. This makes transportation hubs; like airports, bus stations, and train stations, actual hotbeds for human trafficking. It unfortunately also often the last time a victim is seen before being forced into the dark underbelly of human enslavement. Once the victim gets off the plane or bus, they tend to become almost impossible to trace and rescue.

This depressing and scary fact actually provides business travelers a unique advantage. As frequent travelers, they cross paths with virtually all walks of life on a business trip, and could become a huge proponent for stopping human trafficking. By being aware of the signs, and the correct outlets to report, this demographic may very well save lives. Signs of human trafficking are actually pretty easy to recognize. So easy in fact, that without being aware of the signs, they often go unnoticed. Paying attention to anything out of the ordinary, and knowing the actions to take if you suspect something could very easily save a life.

How to spot human trafficking in airports:

1. Person is not dressed appropriately for their travel destination. Trafficking victims are often wearing clothes that seem out of place. They may not be the correct sizes, appear disheveled, or unprepared for the destination. In fact, they may be carrying very little luggage or no luggage at all. Also, it is likely the people he/she is traveling with is more well dressed and appropriately for the destination.
2. May look malnourished, has bruises or other wounds, or ravenous appetite. In addition to their clothes, their overall appearance may be distressing.
3. Traveling with someone else or people who seem to hold all the control. A telltale sign is two or more people traveling together, but don’t seem to be related or even friends. The trafficker is likely more confident, even controlling. The suspected victim may be followed if they move about the cabin or the airport.
4. Can’t provide information on their location, destination, or flight information. Victims are often not told where they are, where they’re going, or even what might happen next. They may not even know the name of the person they are traveling with.
5. Communication seems scripted. If you talk to the person in question, their answers sound scripted or lacks consistency. Traffickers sometimes coach their victims to say certain things to avoid suspicion. Fear and intimidation are two ways traffickers hold their power. They may try to avoid any interaction and defer communication to the possible trafficker.
6. May have a tattoo with a bar code or male’s name.Many people have tattoos, so this tip is not always a sure sign. Traffickers or pimps often tattoo or brand their own names or the word ‘Daddy’ on their victims. Usually this is a sign to show dominance. Other indicating tattoos maybe dollar signs or cuss words.

What frequent business travelers should do if they suspect human trafficking:

First and foremost – do not be a hero. Do not interact with them directly or try to rescue the suspected victim. The safest way to help human trafficking victims is to report it to the correct channels and as much information as possible.
As a growing epidemic, most airline employees and flight attendants have gone through human trafficking detection training. Tell a flight attendant or security guard your suspicions and they will alert the authorities.
Only if you can do so safely, take a picture of the possible victim and trafficker.
Write down descriptions of the possible victim and trafficker. Note any significant tattoos, scars or body marks.
Report your concerns to the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Keep the number in your phone so it can be easily accessed if needed – 1-888-373-7888.

If interested in learning more, read this great resource on how to help victims of human trafficking.

Tags business travel, human trafficking, humanitarian aid

Business Travel Travel Tips

8 Eco-Friendly Habits For Business Travelers

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date May 8, 2018

Many things unfortunately fall to the wayside when traveling for business. Diets and fitness goals run wild. Email has a way of getting out of hand. And often overlooked—environmental conservation. Even simple things like recycling are unavailable. When we’re out of our normal routine, it’s easy to forget about the smaller eco-friendly habits that make a big impact in the long run. Here are 8 easy eco-friendly habits for business travelers, looking easy ways to reduce their impact.

Easy eco-friendly habits for business travelers

1. Before leaving on a business trip, unplug your home appliances. Though not in use, your home appliances are still generating small amounts of energy. Plus, it saves you money on your electricity bill.
2. While staying in a hotel, reduce water waste by reusing your hotel towels and bed sheets. Most hotels now have in-room instructions to opt-in. Or, you can simply write a note to your housekeeper, or put the ‘do not disturb’ sign on the door.
3. Bring a reusable water bottle and/or coffee mug with you while traveling. This is a great tip in general for travel. You’ll likely ignore the plastic water cups or coffee mugs in your room or in the hotel continental breakfast area if you have your trusty container with you. Plus, avoid dehydration while flying. Just remember to keep your bottle or mug empty while going through security lines.
4. Pack other reusable items. Travel typically includes plastic silverware, plastic take-out bags, and other single-use items. Packing small reusable utensils or a fold-able shopping bag can help reduce your use of these common items. They’re small enough to keep in your bag and pull out if the moment arises. Check out these stainless steel straws to reduce your use of plastic straws as well.
5. Bring your own shampoo, toothbrush, shower cap, etc. instead of using the provided hotel amenities.
6. Turn off lights when you’re not using them. And reduce the air conditioning or heat when you’re not in the room. Though spending time in a hotel can feel like a splurge, it’s important to continue to reduce your energy consumption too.
7. Don’t use laundry services in the hotel unless you have a full load to wash. Hotels typically wash individual’s clothes separately, ultimately wasting water and electricity.
8. Though sometimes unavoidable based on your schedule, location, or travel policy, try to fly nonstop when possible. Taking off and landing burns additional fuel. By avoiding additional take offs or landings, you can reduce your emissions by up to 25% with nonstop travel.

Have any other tips or suggestions for eco-friendly business travel? Leave a comment below.

Read next:

Tags business travel, Carbon footprint, eco-friendly

Business Travel Travel Management

Decreasing Your Business Traveler’s Friction

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date February 19, 2018

Anyone who has traveled for business understands the additional strain that inevitably comes with it. It’s a race to catch up on emails and deadlines. And jet lag is always a nuisance. Unfortunately, a recent study suggests business traveler’s friction may have more serious consequences. This study found that business travelers, who travel for more than two weeks out of the month, may have more anxiety and sleeping problems. They are also more likely to smoke, drink, and lead a sedentary lifestyle. This in turn could lead to associated chronic diseases. With emerging studies like this, it’s evident that travel does have an affect on your travelers. For their well being and your duty of care responsibility, it’s more important than ever to ensure that your travelers are happy and healthy.

Understanding business traveler’s hierarchy of needs to reduce traveler friction

An interesting theory to understanding the strain on your business travelers, is thinking of traveler friction as a hierarchy of needs. From Scott Gillepsie, the idea is very similar to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. The concept is simple. Business travelers cannot reach the increasing levels on the pyramid if their basic needs at the lower levels have not been met. Health and Safety are the base of the pyramid. First and foremost, your employees should feel safe while traveling. Such as having a hotel reservation and food stipends for their trip. The second level, Productivity, leads to Engagement. If they are safe and healthy, your employees can focus on their work and engage with others proactively. This leads to Impact at the top of the pyramid. Your business traveler can efficiently complete tasks, such as closing the account or resolving client issues.

Scott Gillepsie found that business travelers that have a higher travel friction, or stay lower on the pyramid, are usually less productive. Even with constant travel, they close deals less often. Ultimately costing the company more money in the long run. What’s the point, if an imbalanced travel policy is ultimately losing the company money as well as harming your employee’s wellbeing?

How to reduce business traveler friction, for the health of your employees

So what can companies do to ensure their business travelers are happy? Having a travel policy that’s not just bare bones is great starting point. Sometimes it comes down to the little perks.

- Give them a chance to stay home. Yes, business trips are often great job experience, worth the investment and provide opportunities for employees to prove themselves. But capping travel after a certain amount of time may be good option if applicable for your company. Give your employees a chance to recuperate and enjoy time at home.
- Give them the perks they want, when possible. If they have to travel, at least make it enjoyable and as comforting as possible. Let them keep the reward points. Give them economy seating if the plane trip is over 6 hours. Reimburse for TSA Pre-Check, lounge access or wifi access. Allow use of black car services if your traveler’s plane arrives after 9pm.
- Talk to your travelers. You may think you know what they want, but it could be small details that you don’t realize.
- Incentivise their health and fitness. Create a company-wide competition for working out and eating healthy. Keep them motivated.
- Make expense reporting as easy as possible. Keep the travel-associated tasks as easy as possible to complete.
- Provide time off for the additional time spent traveling and working outside of regular work hours.
- Discourage late flights, early flights or weekend travel.
- Encourage bleisure travel trips.

Tags business travel, traveler friction

Business Travel Guides

Does Your State Driver’s License Comply With The REAL ID Act?

Post author By Kathleen Roberts
Post date November 13, 2017

You have hopefully noticed the many informative signs in the airports regarding driver’s licenses. If you haven’t, major changes are coming to the commercial aircraft’s security standards that you should be aware of. Called the REAL ID Act, travelers will see the most change by potentially needing different documentation to board aircrafts in the United States. For a larger overview, read our original REAl ID Act blog post here. Now, new extensions for some states are shifting the deadlines.

What’s happening?

The REAl ID Act is an update in security standards for many federal facilities. It has been in the process of updating various minimum security standards for power plants, federal buildings and others for the past 12 years. Now entering its final phase, the focus is on federally regulated commercial aircrafts. Travelers may only board the plane with the approved forms of documentation. Compliance by states is voluntary – meaning it is the responsibility of the individual states to update their driver’s licenses and identification cards to be within the standards set by the REAL ID Act.

As of January 22, 2018, the new REAL ID Act protocols will be instituted in all United States airports. States must update their driver’s licenses by this date, or their residents will not be able to use them to board aircrafts. Many states have already updated their processes. Now, many states have extensions until October 10, 2018 to fully comply.

Can you use your driver’s licenses to board commercial aircrafts?

The Department of Homeland Security continually updates their website as the information changes. Go to their website, or use the infographic attached below to find the information regarding your state. Most states have already updated their driver’s licenses and identification cards to comply with the new standards. Some are still in the process of updating, with an approved extension to complete the task.

States in green have already complied to the new standards. Travelers with driver’s licenses from these states can be used to board federal commercial aircrafts.
States in yellow have already applied for an extension in the process. These states now have until October 10, 2018 to update their security standards. Travelers with identification from these states will still be able to use their IDs while traveling through October 10, 2018.
A few states, seen in blue are still under review for an extension. Their IDs are currently not compliant, and they need more time than the January 22, 2018 deadline to make this update. You may need to bring additional forms of documentation, such as a passport.

Continue to check the Homeland Security website for updates, or additional blogs or social media posts from Christopherson Business Travel. If you are a current client, contact your account manager if you have additional questions.

Tags business travel, department of homeland security, real id act

Business Travel Guides Travel News

How to Select the Right Corporate Travel Partners

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date September 28, 2017

I recently had the pleasure of attending the GBTA- North Carolina’s Education Day. Themed ‘Bridging the Travel Gap’, it focused on helping both buyers and suppliers bridge the gaps that may exist during the purchasing process. The keynote speaker was Neil Hammond of Goldspring Consulting and he focused on Better Engaging the Buyer and Supplier Relationship. While he delivered a breadth of beneficial material, I really enjoyed his process on selecting the right corporate travel partners. By breaking it out into steps, it makes the process less daunting. It also allows for increased communication and guidelines, ensuring everyone’s needs are met for future travel management practices.

Selecting the right corporate travel partners for your business:

Involve any key stakeholders to get internal support. Gaining this support is especially helpful when a introducing a new policy or changing vendors.
Align your message internally in order to deliver the same message to your travelers.
Educate key decision makers as necessary. Take the time to explain why vendor options are being evaluated.
Define your strategy in advance of collecting a proposal. Will you be awarding a single contract or multiple?
Survey your travelers. This will give you a clear picture of what travelers like and also in keeping their opinions in mind, will ensure buy-in as you proceed in the decision making process.
Agree on your decision making process. What parameters are you looking for? Do these align with your company policy? Do you have a clear timeline for the implementation of this change?
Clearly express your requirements to potential suppliers.
Evaluate suppliers, engaging throughout the process to gain clarification and provide updates on your timeline, if necessary.
Execute a decision according to the defined timeline.

While making a change to your travel program is never easy, following these steps will help you stay organized while selecting your corporate travel partners. And remember, Christopherson is always here to help. With more that 60 years experience in corporate travel, we understand the challenges that businesses face with travel management. If you would like to discuss the process of choosing corporate travel partners in more depth, feel free to contact us, or read our additional blogs below.

Tags benefits of a travel management company, business travel, business travel management, Travel Management

Business Travel Travel Tips

5 Funny ‘Road-Trip’ Movies to Watch While Traveling

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date August 16, 2017

Nothing beats passing the time on a long flight than enjoying a good laugh from watching traveling humor! I recently spent 9 hours on a plane over 2 days, and it got me to thinking about some great comedic road trip movies that I have seen over the years. Below is a list of some of my favorites, with a summary and a favorite quote from each.

Top road trip movies to watch while traveling:

National Lampoon’s Vacation: On a road trip to Wally World theme park, this family continually finds strange predicaments and catastrophes instead of a relaxing vacation. This is the first movie of five is about the misadventures of the Griswald family. “The dog wet on the picnic basket!”
Tommy Boy: Starring Chris Farley and David Spade, the duos only chance to save Tommy’s family business is selling on the road. Watch them blunder through sales presentations and encounter various surprises on the road. “Fat guy in a little coat!”
Dumb & Dumber: In an attempt to return a lost briefcase two imbeciles played by Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels find themselves road tripping across America. “So you’re telling me there’s a chance?”
Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Following cancellations and delays, Neal Page, played by Steve Martin, attempts the near impossible to get home to his family by Thanksgiving. His biggest obstacle is being paired with the clumsy, over-talkative and accident prone Del Griffith, played by John Candy. “Those aren’t pillows!”
Due Date: A 2010 remake of ‘Planes, Trains & Automobiles’, it holds its own as an original road trip movie. Played by Robert Downey Jr and Zach Galifianakis, they work together to get to LA before Robert Downey Jr’s wife goes into labor. “You better check yourself before you wreck yourself.”

There are certainly some great road-trip movies out there, and I know that I have left out a ton. The next time that you find yourself on the verge of a long flight, download one! Traveling humor; while one is traveling themselves, is a great way to pass the time until you reach your destination!

Tags business travel, personal device entertainment, roadwarriors

Business Travel

A Millennial Friendly Travel Policy?

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date August 7, 2017

While attending the GBTA Convention in Boston this past month, I was both expectant but still a little surprised about the buzz around the concept of millennial business travelers. After all, millennials have been in the workplace for roughly 15 years. During this time, this generation is still inspiring new ideas to pop up. While there, I attended a couple of education sessions focused on travel policy. One session that I found particularly interesting, featured a panel of two travel managers. They presented and answered questions on their individual company’s travel policies, including millennial travelers.

Millennial Friendly Travel Policy

• There is a common assumption that millennial travelers are collaborative and like big open public lobby spaces where they can relax and catch up on work. Actually, some are introverts and still appreciate having a work station in their hotel room.
• Millennials have a need to personalize everything and are more likely to dine out in a unique restaurant or go sightseeing on a business trip. It tends all about the experience for these travelers but, as this generation gets older and takes on more personal and familial responsibility, we might begin to see a shift in the “bleisure” time.
• Millennial travelers are 60% more likely to pay for an upgraded hotel room or seat on their flight. This one is actually true and they seem to be willing to treat their comfort as a personal expense.
All of this comes down to one word- OPTIONS. Build a policy that works for your company, is good for your bottom line and vendor relationships but also provides your travelers a few options and you will have happy travelers.

Tags business travel, business travel management, Christopherson Business Travel, millennials, Travel Management, travel policy

Business Travel Travel Management Travel Tips

Surviving a One-Day Buisness Trip

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date May 30, 2017

We are all so busy that, at times, a one-day business trip can have a lot of benefits. First, it saves your company money on an overnight in a hotel. Second, it takes less time away from any personal and professional duties and can make a person more productive. While the benefits are strong, the concept of doing such a trip can be daunting to some people.

Tips to surviving a one-day business trip:

1) Stay healthy. Catching an early flight, attending meetings, and then catching another flight at the end of the day is exhausting. Combat this by drinking plenty of water and eating healthy to ensure you have plenty of energy to get you through the day.
2) Dress comfortably. Without access to a hotel, you will need to wear business clothes for the entire day. Invest in some that are wrinkle free and wear comfortable shoes.
3) Pack a small “what if” bag. You’ll need to be prepared in the event that you need to stay over. Extra undergarments, travel sized toiletries and a toothbrush can put your mind at ease.
4) Take advantage of any travel perks. If you have access to an airport lounge or a business center, these can be a great place to catch up on work. If you don’t have such access, you may consider using your extra time to enjoy your destination for an hour or two.
5) Lastly, if your trip includes a red- eye flight, you might consider purchasing an upgrade to ensure you get enough sleep to continue to be productive once you land.

A one-day business trip is eventually inevitable for most professionals. But if you tackle it strategically, you can walk away with a productive and energetic day under your belt.

Tags air travel, business travel, roadwarriors, travel tips

Business Travel Travel Tips

Airplane Etiquette – A True Gamble

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date April 19, 2017

Everyone loves sitting beside strangers on a plane, right?! It’s like buying a lottery ticket, and you never know whether you have won or lost until you arrive at your seat! As frequent business travelers, we all have stories of interesting people we have met or conversations we have overheard while traveling.

10 things that NO ONE wants to hear from the person sitting next to them:

“Whoa, that airport burrito isn’t sitting well.”
“I’m so happy to get these sweaty shoes off!”
“Does this look infected?”
“Billy, stop touching that – you have pink-eye!”
“I don’t know why I’m so itchy.”
“Mmmm, this tuna salad sandwich tastes great!”
“I am so angry right now…I just want to hit something!”
“Can you help me pry off this ankle monitor?”
“Can I borrow your barf bag?”
“People keep telling me that I have Halitosis – what do you think?”

Hopefully, you have never heard any of these yourself! Feel free to reply with your own examples, and let’s all enjoy a laugh together!

On the other hand, here are a few pointers on how to have the best airplane etiquette:

Recline courteously. As personal space is shrinking on airplanes, so has leg room. Reclining seats have become an issue of heated debate. If you must recline, at least be aware of when you do and who may be behind you. Is it a 5-year-old child or someone over six feet? Are they currently eating or using their tray table?
Be nice to the flight attendants. They are just doing their job. Just put away your laptop already, it’s only for a few minutes.
Be prepared to get through security quickly. Make sure there’s nothing in your pockets before you get to the line. Unlace and loosen your shoes before you need to take them off. And gather your items on the other side quickly. You can put on your shoes and belt after.
The middle seat gets the armrest. Another area for debate, but consensus says the person is the middle seat gets to use the armrests. Both the window seats and aisle seat can lean onto other areas. Let them have this one.

Have any thoughts to add about airplane etiquette? We’d love to hear in the comments section below.

Christopherson Business Travel is a corporate travel management company. We’ve been providing travel management solutions to busy companies for more than 60 years. Contact us to learn how we can save you 15% on travel costs.

Tags business travel, travel etiquette

Business and Leadership Business Travel

Marketing for Businesses: Knowing What People Want

Post author By Mike Cameron
Post date April 7, 2017

Effective marketing is an important part of any business. Even if you’re company provides the best product or service, you still need some level of marketing to inform potential buyers. I was fortunate enough to hear Kelly McDonald, of McDonald Marketing, speak on marketing in today’s changing environment. A published author and internationally recognized expert, I was excited to understand modern day marketing trends and learn tips for my own company.

Eight things to consider while marketing your business:

1. Identify what people want, and then give it to them

Listen, listen, listen
An example is the success of Target’s strategy compared to KMart’s strategy

2. Tap into values

Support locally owned business, source locally
Publish testimonials and reviews online
Go green
Be the good guys, doing good is the new cool

3. Foster a culture of empathy

Hire the right person, not the resume
Many jobs are teachable jobs
“Awesomeness” follows the person
Awesome people are not defensive when things go wrong

4. Recognize different needs for different markets

Burger King serves breakfast on bagels in New York City and on biscuits in Birmingham, Alabama

5. Use consumer insights

Sell your cause
Women typically value expansive choices
While men prefer the “magic number” of three choices

6. Pay attention to trends, not fads

Mass is out, customization is in
McDonalds has kiosks to customize your order
Coke started putting personal names on bottles
Social is everything

7. Show people as they really are

Show real people in ads, not photo stock models
People respond to those they can relate to

8. Helping Beats Selling

We don’t need anymore “information”. We need “advice.”
Provide solutions and help them

Overall, I was reminded that most people already know what they want. They are just looking for the right company to fill those needs. By being honest, transparent, and easily accessible, you can gain the trust of your audience.

Read next:

1. - Professional tip – make a difference that people love
  - Corporate travel needs actionable intelligence

Tags business travel

Business Travel Travel Management

The Overlooked Factor In Efficient Travel Programs

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date March 27, 2017

In February, the GBTA- North Carolina chapter had the pleasure of hosting Scott Gillespie, a true travel management thought leader. Mr. Gillepsie is the CEO of t-Clara and frequent contributor to Business Travel News. His presentation focused on a question travel managers often find themselves thinking – how do I gauge success with my travel management process?

Identifying the difference in efficient travel programs

Gillespie based his findings from a recent study, sponsored by ARC, American Express Global Business Travel, and his firm, tClara. Participants were 700 US-based road warriors who answered questions about their company’s travel policy. The questions focused on if their travel management policies emphasized convenience or budget.

Not surprisingly, travelers operating under strict cost-focused travel programs tended to be more dissatisfied. They admitted to nearly 13% less compliance with their travel policies. They also indicated a 15% higher rate of burn-out and were significantly less willing to travel within two years time.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, travelers with companies that had convenience-based travel policies tended to be more productive on the road and had an overall better outlook about their jobs.

What travel managers should also be measuring:

So are these companies specifically prioritizing cost over the wellbeing of their employees? Of course not! Most companies just aren’t measuring employee satisfaction as a KPI. Gillepsie advised that each travel manager obtain an employee turnover report for employees in traveling roles from their HR department. Getting insights on high turnover rate is the first step to see if adjustments to the travel policy to result in higher employee retention. From there, it may make sense to look at other priorities for travel policies than budget.

Read Scott Gillepsie’s article for other key performance indicators and details on the survey.

With our 24/7 service, online support and exceptional service delivered by our travel agents, Christopherson helps ease any challenges that occur when your travelers on the road. In addition, your consultative account manager will assist you in making the necessary changes to your travel policy to decrease traveler dissatisfaction and increase productivity!

Tags business travel, business travel policy, business travel policy compliance, Christopherson Business Travel, corporate travel, roadwarriors

Travel Industry Travel News

Executive Order On Immigration May Affect Business Travel Industry

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date February 3, 2017

An Executive Order on immigration was signed by President Donald Trump on January 27th, placing immediate travel restrictions from seven countries. While this may not pertain to most of our client’s travelers, the ban is already affecting the business travel industry and its trends.

The Executive Order on immigration

Citizens from these seven countries – Iraq, Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, will not be allowed to enter the United States. Restrictions will continue for the next 90 days. Currently, these nationals may travel to and from the U.S. only if they are in possession of a Green Card. They will undergo additional secondary screening upon arrival. This is a recent change to the order, following some confusion when the order was first released. Those already living in the U.S with visas will not be removed. The U.S. State Department website also advises these citizens to not schedule visa appointments at this time, or attend their pre-scheduled visa appointment. They will not be permitted entry into the embassy or consulate.

How companies are responding to the 90-day ban

A survey conducted by the Association of Corporate Travel Executives found that 39% of the 260 respondents said the ban had the potential to reduce corporate travel. When asked if the ban posed travel difficulties for their company, 20% responded “yes”, while 34% were still unsure of the repercussions. Their largest travel difficulty concerns were; fear of traveler harassment, fear of harassment of US travelers in the Middle East, uncertainty regarding Green Card and approval via credibility, and limited access to the employee pool.

Leading multinational corporations and tech companies have already expressed their concern by the Trump Administration’s actions on immigration. CEOs from companies such as; Ford, Amazon, Coca-Cola, Bank of America, Chobani, Uber, Netflix, Starbucks, Apple, Twitter, SalesForce, Tesla, General Electric, Expedia, and TripAdvisor have released statements concerning the ban. Additionally, Google and their parent company, Alphabet, sent an internal memo to their employees, urging any employee in the U.S. on a Green Card or visa to use caution. The memo stated, “Please do not travel outside of the U.S. until the ban is lifted. While the entry restriction is currently only in place for 90 days, it could be extended with little or no warning.” The definitions of this Executive Order are still being defined.

If you are a client and require assistance or need to make amendments to your itinerary, please contact Christopherson Business Travel . Our agents will check the most up-to-date airline policies. You can contact your dedicated reservations team per the phone numbers noted on your itineraries.

Tags business travel, executive order, trump administration

Business Travel Travel Industry Travel Tips

Sighted: A Gym In An Airport!

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date February 2, 2017

When you travel for work, it’s hard to maintain your lifestyle. Finding time to exercise or follow a healthy diet can seem almost impossible when your priorities are centered on networking, deadlines, and adhering to a schedule. After a long day of meetings, I often find myself, pacing, just to get in a few more steps in before my plane boards. Apparently, I’m not the only business traveler attempting to burn calories while waiting at the airport.

New Airport Gym

Enter Roam Fitness, a new company establishing workout facilities in airports. Opening their first gym in the Baltimore/Washington International Airport, it’s the first of its kind to hit the air travel industry. It is located after the security gate at the D/E connector. Not only is having a gym in an airport a potential game-changer, but their amenities appear to be top-of-the-line and well aligned with business traveler’s needs. A few services they provide:

cardio equipment
free weights, medicine balls, stability balls, yoga supplies
TRX system
stretching space
bathrooms with private showers
towel service
lockers
clothes and shoe rentals for unprepared members
vacuum seal to contain sweaty garments post-workout

The company has plans to open other locations, with several more airports on the horizon. The airports in negotiations are Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Pittsburgh International Airport, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport. They have their sights on 23 additional airports, mainly located in the United States, but also including Heathrow Airport in London.

Depending on your frequency to the Baltimore/Washington International Airport, a membership may work with your budget. They offer day and month passes, as well as annual passes. These annual passes include additional perks, such as a 24-hour advance reservation on showers.

I’m probably not the only traveler excited for a healthy airport activity like a gym. This advancement in is a push in the right direction for a healthy lifestyle, especially for on-the-go business travelers.

Read next:

Tags business travel, exercise in airports, exercising on a business trip, frequent flyer, travel tips

Business Travel Travel Technology

How Christopherson Provides Organization for Travel Management

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date January 23, 2017

It could be the ‘type A’ personality in me, but I often think there’s room for improvement in most situations. I’ve also noticed this trait in many travel managers, procurement officers and executives. In positions as busy as these, isn’t the job more manageable with a structured and reliable system? Fortunately, I know Christopherson can provide that oh-so-necessary organization for travel management tasks. Our technology allows for peace of mind and instant access to information for company’s travel management needs. Why are we so confident that we can provide that satisfaction? Read some of our top benefits below:

How Christopherson provides organization for travel management

With our AirPortal 360™ Dashboard and Mobile App, you have a 360° view of your travel program instantly and at all times.
No more digging through your inbox to find a traveler’s itinerary. Christopherson’s SecurityLogic® will tell you exactly where your travelers are in seconds. You can even look at their past or upcoming trips by customizing your search.
Eliminate that spreadsheet tracking your company’s unused tickets. AirBank® technology seamlessly tracks the unused funds from cancelled tickets. We even provide reminders, ensuring they are used before expiring.
All of your traveler’s pertinent travel information and preferences is stored in our Traveler Profiles, allowing you to take one less step when booking. There is no need to keep a series of post-it notes on your desk with traveler’s information written on them.
Lastly, eliminate the need to “shop” for fares prior to booking a trip. With PolicyLogic™, your company’s travel policy is built into our software. When travelers book their travel either with an agent or through one of our online booking tools, your travel policy will always comply.

By choosing Christopherson Business Travel as your travel management partner, you are signing on from streamlined and organized travel management. We are at the forefront of travel technology, and have been since we opened our doors in 1953. Contact us to learn more about our AirPortal® platform, and how we can declutter your travel management procedures.

Tags AirPortal, benefits of a travel management company, business travel, business travel technology, Christopherson Business Travel, corporate travel, Travel Management

Business Travel Travel Tips

How To Prevent Jet Lag While Traveling

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date January 11, 2017

We’ve all been there – adjusting to a new time zone with headaches, nausea, disorientation, insomnia or exhaustion. Add on a day full of meetings or an important presentation, and you are certainly at a disadvantage. While air travel makes it possible to soar to the other side of the world in a matter of hours, the jet lag can take a serious toll. And while there’s no official cure to prevent jet lag, its effects can and should be mitigated for the sake of your business travel. We’ve compiled these tips from a collection of Virtuoso travel advisors to help you from falling behind on your next trip.

Five tips to prevent jet lag, from a collection of Virtuoso travel advisors:

“Set your watch to your destination time when you board the plane and act as if you’re already in that time zone. If it’s night there, try to sleep. If it’s day, do your best to stay awake.”
– JOHN OBERACKER

“To help you sleep during your flight, I highly recommend wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothes. I also bring my own neck pillow and cashmere pashmina that doubles as a blanket. And of course, flying business or first class will help you rest and be ready for your arrival.”
– MARY ANN RAMSEY

“If it’s feasible, schedule an overnight layover en route to your ultimate destination. During my recent family vacation to Hawaii, for example, I arranged flights with a hotel stay in San Francisco, which significantly lessened our jet lag.”
– LISA LEAVITT

“Stress-reducing massages and spa treatments are essential for reducing jet lag – think airport massages and jet-lag therapies on arriving at your destination.”
– PAÔLA MANSUR

“If you arrive during the day, stay active and get as much sunlight as possible. I recommend taking a private tour that will help you get familiar with your destination, requires minimal brain power, and keeps you from slipping into your bed too early.”
– KRISTEN LOWREY LARSON

Do you have any tips to prevent jet lag while traveling for business? Leave them in the comments below or find us on Facebook or Twitter.

Christopherson Business Travel is a travel management company for busy corporations. With our top-of-the-line travel technology, account management, and 24/7 customer service, let us handle your travel so you can get back to what’s more important.

Read next:

Tags business travel, How to Reduce Jet Lag

Business Travel Travel Industry

Should Calls On Planes Be Allowed? You Can Help Decide.

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date January 4, 2017

The travel industry was left a bit perplexed in December when the Department of Transportation (DOT) made a sudden announcement. They stated a “proposal to require airlines and ticket agents to disclose in advance to consumers if the carrier operating their flight allows passengers to make voice calls using mobile wireless devices.” So what does this mean? The DOT has decided they will no longer regulate the use of cellphones for calls on planes. Instead, the decision will be determined by the airline and ticket agents.

Why are phone calls currently prohibited on airplanes?

Electromagnetic interference has been the culprit for prohibiting these calls on planes. It’s also why laptops and other devices need to be turned off during takeoff and landing. This interference is more prominent in our lives than you might think. For example, when your phone is too close to speakers, producing a static noise. Or how you sometimes hear a number being dialed on a wireless phone through a baby monitor. These are small examples that most have encountered without much consequence.

Airplanes on the other hand often use a number of radio frequencies for different tasks. If those wires are crossed while flying the results may be more severe. Radio frequency is used to communicate with ground control, air traffic control, guidance and weather detection. If a passenger’s phone is turned on, it could possibly garble the message between the pilot and others, similar to putting your phone too close to speakers.

Why phone calls are now safe on planes

The Federal Communications Commission rules do not cover wi-fi or other non-radio frequency communications. Leaving the DOT to decide if wi-fi voice calls on planes should be allowed. Calls made using radio frequency would still be prohibited.

The pros and cons of approving calls on planes

For me, there are two obvious sides to this coin. If you are an efficient business traveler, your productivity on a plane will significantly improve if you are able to call the office, clients or prospects while flying. The downside, of course, being strapped in a seat for hours, forced to listen to the one-sided calls around you. What if you are flying in the middle seat and both neighbors are on the phone? How will that affect your work? Like crying babies aren’t enough of a distraction?

Many figureheads and politicians have already put in their two cents. Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) made a statement saying “Small seats, little legroom and, now, cell phone chatter – air travel could become even less comfortable if consumers are surrounded by passengers talking on mobile phones,”

DOT wants to hear from you

Overall, the DOT is still defining their decision. Is leaving this decision in the hands of airlines acceptable, or if voice calls should be prohibited altogether? Fortunately, they are looking for feedback. Members of the public can comment on the notice of proposed rulemaking at regulations.gov, docket number DOT-OST-2014-0002. The notice closes on Feb 13, so be sure to submit your comments for their review before then.

Christopherson Business Travel is a travel management company for busy corporations. We’ve succeeded for more than 60 years by innovating technologies and providing superior account management. Learn more about the Christopherson approach.

Read next:

Tags business travel, Cell phone use on aircraft, radio frequencies

Business Travel Travel Industry

The Science of Shrinking Personal Space on Airplanes

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date December 29, 2016

It’s no surprise that airlines have been squeezing more seats onto their planes. Some criticize the move increases their profits, while others defend it keeps ticket prices low. Regardless of your stance on the matter, personal space on airplanes is expected to continue to dwindle on commercial airlines. But, many are surprised by just where that space is shrinking.

Average planes now have 142 seats, with the previous average being 137 seats. Most think this new row was previously leg room. But with the creation and implementation of slimmer backed seats, our leg space is relatively unchanged. The noticeable shrinking of personal space actually comes from headroom. On most new planes, our heads are now three inches closer to the head of the person sitting in front of you. Once that person reclines, the distance between you and them shrinks further.

It’s human nature to become anxious and agitated by shrinking personal space. And of course, the size of this personal bubble is different for everyone. Some people can handle this closeness more easily than others. But science does show that some parts of the body require a larger personal bubble. For example, you probably don’t care how close your foot is to another object. Not surprisingly, the head is an area that is more sensitive. When that seat in front of you reclines, it is noticed immediately. Though it hasn’t been officially researched, many think the shrinking space correlates with increased incidences of flying rage in recent years.

Additionally, bathrooms are sizing down. In the new Airbus A320s and A321s, they have cut the bathroom galleys in half, creating two bathrooms next to each other instead of one.

How to deal with shrinking personal space on airplanes

At least airplane manufacturers are trying to alleviate the tension. Boeing has reported that they are redesigning the ceiling panels to provide a more spacious view up above. We have yet to know if it will relieve some of the strain, so here are a few other tips to use the next time you fly.

Sit in the first row. There is more room for your legs and no one sitting in front of you to recline.
Even the first few rows can make a difference. Seeing only a few rows instead of 30 can make you feel less stressed.
If you can afford it, fly first class.

Tags airplane leg rooms, airplane seat width, business travel

Business Travel Travel Technology

Christopherson Business Travel and your Risk Management Program

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date December 28, 2016

I recently had the pleasure of hearing Charles Brossman, a prominent risk management author and consultant speak at GBTA- North Carolina’s Education Breakfast. His informal but informative conversation educated our group on the legal terms associated with risk management. These terms, coupled with real- life examples, left us thinking about ways to improve the risk management programs for our own organizations.

How Christopherson provides risk management security

Guess what? By partnering with Christopherson as your Travel Management Company, you already have the shoe on the right foot. Housed in our AirPortal 360 platform, SecurityLogic allows travel managers can access real-time threats. This includes security updates, weather, traffic, airport delays, and disaster alerts. These alerts can be automatically pushed to travelers via text and email. With the intuitive Safety Check feature, you can request safety verification from your travelers, from anywhere in the world. Once activated, the traveler will immediately be messaged. Knowing that you are worried about their safety and they can also quickly respond. Additionally, SecurityLogic provides multiple global map overlays. All travel information is geocoded to street-level accuracy. So you can zoom into any country, city, or street to find risks near your travelers.
Learn more about how Christopherson can assist with your duty of care and risk management goals.

Charles Brossman is the author of the book “Building a Travel Risk Management Program: Traveler Safety and Duty of Care for Any Organization”. For more information on Charles Brossman and his services, see his website.

Christopherson Business Travel provides full-service travel management for companies. With advanced technology and customized service, we are one of the top TMCs in the nation. Contact us to learn how we can save your company time and money on future travel.

Tags #riskmanagement, #travelriskmanagement, benefits of a travel management company, business travel, business travel duty of care, duty of care, roadwarriors, Travel Management

Business Travel Travel Tips

Ultimate Travel Checklist for the Infrequent Business Traveler

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date December 1, 2016

Road warriors most often have their travel packing down to a quick science. But what about the infrequent traveler? We’ve created a travel checklist of not only what you may want to bring on your upcoming business trip, but also a “to-do” list for that upcoming trip.

Before you travel:

Sign up for all applicable loyalty programs (airline, hotel, car rental).
Make sure you have all loyalty program numbers in your reservation.
Download the airline mobile app for flight delays and gate changes.
Sign up to receive all travel alerts from your travel agency or airline app.
Understand your company’s health and travel insurance information.

Additional to-do items for an International business trip

Make sure your passport is current.
Alert the bank to prevent your card from being shut off.
Check out travel.state.gov for visa requirements, local laws and travel alerts.
Check the websites of the US embassy or consulate for the latest security messages.
The US Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization provide recommendations for vaccinations and other health precautions when traveling abroad.
Always carry contact information for the US embassy or consulate with you when traveling abroad.
Get a letter from your doctor about the medications prescribed to you. Some countries have strict laws on prescription and even over-the-counter drugs.
Make sure your health insurance is valid overseas. For example, Social Security and Medicare do not provide coverage abroad.
Make a photocopy of your passport.

What to bring:

My most often forgotten item is my toothbrush. Probably because brushing my teeth is the last thing I do before I walk out the door. And by habit, my toothbrush goes right back to the holder next to the sink. Here is a quick checklist for those necessary items we don’t want you to forget:

Work clothes
undergarments
socks
belt
Workout clothes
Workout shoes
sleepwear
hand sanitizer
toothbrush and toothpaste
shaving cream and razors
shampoo and conditioner
deodorant
first aid kit
over the counter medications (ibuprofen, aspirin)
prescriptions
glasses
contact lens solution, case
ear plugs
mobile device, laptop
phone charger, laptop charger
Business materials
Business cards
travel comforts – headphones, books, magazines, language guides

Looking for more travel packing tips? Check out some of our other packing blog posts:

Tags business travel, corporate travel, infrequent traveler, work travel

Business Travel Travel Tips

Top Business Traveler Threats

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date November 11, 2016

When you think of ‘threats’ while traveling, you probably think of major catastrophes, like kidnappings, bombings, or terrorism. Fortunately, Buying Business Travel found the biggest threats facing business travelers are not nearly as ‘exciting’. These top business traveler threats are actually pretty commonplace. Regardless, it’s important to be aware of areas of concern and how to avoid them.

Most common threats for business travelers

Petty Non-violent Crimes – These are crimes like pickpocketing or petty robbery. Even areas known for being safer to visit, like Europe, has their high risk areas for petty crimes. People seen as ‘weaker’, like women traveling alone of older individuals are often targets. The key is to stay alert and take precautions. Mitigate yourself looking like a target. Even if you are lost, don’t look it. Confidence can convey a lot. Keep your valuables out of sight, or leave them behind. Though it can be hard for business travelers, dress to blend in.
Road Traffic Accidents – The risk of being involved in a road accident while traveling is higher than when you are at home. Probably because you are in a variety of situations involving rental cars, taxis, car services, car pooling, etc. Looking internationally, the risk of road accidents goes up. Did you know there are more road accidents in China than in all of Africa? The best way to prepare for this is with some research. If you are traveling abroad, make sure you are familiar with emergency response procedures. Also understand the car insurance if you are renting a vehicle.
Food Poisoning – Whether it’s from unhygienic preparation or just unfamiliarity, sickness from food is commonplace. The most common resulting from E. Coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter and Listeria, found in meats, eggs, fruits and dairy. Water quality can be a factor in food poisoning in other countries as well. Try the “If you can’t boil it, cook it, peel it, than forget it.” mantra when traveling.

Though these aren’t the most interesting threats, they are important nonetheless. Before you head out on your next business trip, be sure to prepare for these potential hazards.

Blogs to read next:

Tags business travel, Business Travel Safety, international travel safety

Travel News

United Offers VIP Luggage Delivery

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date October 5, 2016

Checking luggage at the airport is relatively easy and straightforward. You hand your bags over to an attendant and then pick them up at your destination city. Can’t get much simpler, right? Well, United Airlines has taken it lightyears past simple with their recently announced their United VIP Luggage Delivery service! This innovative service just may change how frequent business travelers fly. Rather than waiting for your luggage at baggage claim, you can head off to your important meeting or conference. United will deliver your luggage to your hotel or specified address, so you can focus on your own agenda.

United VIP luggage delivery

Available in over 250 cities throughout the U.S., this United service is provided by BagVIP. Additionally, it includes plane changes or transfers. Read the specifics below:

Deliveries need to be scheduled at least one hour prior to the scheduled flight departure. Reservations can be made as soon as your flight is booked. More information can be found here.
United guarantees the traveler will receive their baggage within four hours after their flight’s arrival.
For this 4 hour time window, the final destination must be within 40 miles from the airport.
If the destination is located between 41 and 100 miles from the airport, the baggage will arrive within six hours after the arrival of the flight.
Additional fees apply for this delivery service. The first bag is $29.95. Adding a second bag increases the price to $39.95. Interestingly, the rate for 3-8 bags delivered in $49.95.
United’s checked baggage fee also still applies

This a perfect solution if your travel day is already overbooked with meetings and dinners. Or, you could use VIP luggage delivery service for golf clubs, skis or strollers. At the reduced price to deliver 3-8 bags, I’ll consider it for my next ski trip.

Read next:

Christopherson Business Travel is an award-winning corporate travel management company. We love providing travel management solutions to busy organizations, and have the client retention rate to prove we know what we’re doing. Contact us to learn more about our innovative travel technology and consultative account management solutions.

Tags business travel, checked baggage, United Airlines

Business Travel Travel Industry

Travel Hardest on Small Business Travelers

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date September 29, 2016

Start ups and small businesses can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Getting off the ground, maintaining stable growth, and establishing a competitive advantage, it’s easy for smaller details to fall through the cracks. That’s exactly what a new study by Holiday Inn discovered regarding small businesses and booking travel. They found that small business travelers find it harder and more time consuming to book business travel than larger companies. In fact, travel in general is more stressful for this demographic.

Travelers from small businesses surveyed

The study was an online survey of 1,005 small business travelers. Most of the survey group found the process of traveling time-consuming and costly, though the majority (98 percent) found its benefits ultimately rewarding. The larger take-away is roughly a third of small businesses believe they have a harder time booking travel than larger companies. And in all honesty, they are probably right. Smaller companies tend to not have the backing of a corporate travel booking tool. They end up doing the booking themselves., spending excess time and possibly money with travel management.

Additionally, the small business travelers surveyed found their biggest issue is the stress involved in travel itself. And they are probably correct here as well. Without the support of a travel manager, auto-updated itineraries or reassurance should issues arise, travel itself can be nerve-wrecking.

What can small business owners do to feel more prepared?

Create travel management plan

Develop a travel policy, or guidelines for travel. Creating a game plan from which you book travel may help you feel more organized and save time in the long run.
Create vendor relationships. Establishing partnerships can save you money and ease in stress.
Research if a corporate travel management company or program is right for your business.

Relieve the stress related to travel

Familiarize yourself with the destination. Research restaurants, coffee shops, and drug stores near your hotel. Feeling more prepared while you are there may take the edge off of the unknown.
Get down a packing routine. Get packing list tips from our own frequent road warriors. Read this one too.
Stay productive while traveling. The job never ends for small businesses, which is why taking advantage of the few minutes of downtime is important. Read our 7 productivity tips.
Take time for yourself and explore the city. Whether it be an afternoon or a weekend, take advantage of being in a new city. The downtime may put the fun back in travel too!

Christopherson Business Travel is a corporate travel management company for busy businesses, big and small. With more than 60 years of experience, we specialize in top-of-the-line travel technology and consultative customer service. We’re here to take the stress off of travel, so your company can focus on what’s more important.

Tags business travel, Business Travel Tips, travel management for small business

Business Travel Guides Travel Tips Vacation Travel

Travel Packing List For Dummies: Use Carry-on Luggage For EVERY Trip

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date September 26, 2016

Passengers gathering at the gate prior to their boarding time is strange to me. My first thought is often, ‘why stand in line before you are called, cutting into time that could be used for work, a preflight meal, catching up on a phone call?’ But then I remember that these travelers, like me, are terrified of not finding a space for their bag on the plane. I pride myself on using the same international sized carry-on for every trip, no matter how long. In fact, I wrote a blog on my favorite packing tips a few years ago. Since I wrote this, I’ve continued traveling for business and leisure and know even more about packing light. I’ve discovered a few easy tips that are especially helpful as we move into the cooler months.

Carry-on packing tips for business and leisure travelers

1) Invest in packing cubes. They not only help you separate your clothes, but they really do keep everything compact. They are especially useful for sweaters!
2) Boot season is upon us and while they look great, knee-high boots can take up an entire suitcase. If boots are part of your wardrobe, wear them on the plane to save space.
3) Try wearing items that you have packed a few times during the same trip. A scarf or tie can really transform an outfit, and nobody will even notice that you had worn it the previous day.
4) If you plan to use the hotel gym, invest in a good workout outfit that is made of nylon. This material gets really small when folded and you can even roll the items and store them inside your workout shoes.
5) If you buy your cosmetics from a mall department store, do so when you can get a promotional gift. The bags that come with these gifts are often the perfect size for travel and the samples are usually travel sized.

Overall, I’ve learned that even with the stressful pre-boarding line, carry-on luggage is the best option for plane travel. Especially if you have an established packing routine with usable tips and tricks.

Looking for more helpful tips on business travel packing? Check out our other blog posts:

Christopherson Business Travel is a corporate travel management company. We’ve worked passionately for more than 60 years to bring travel solutions to busy businesses. Learn more about our specialty travel technology or consultative services that save our clients time and money.

Tags business travel, Business Travel Tips, Christopherson Business Travel, packing carry on luggage, packing for a business trip, packing tips, roadwarriors

Business Travel Travel Tips

What Happens To Your Body On A Plane?

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date July 28, 2016

Not surprisingly, flying through the air at 600 miles per hour has some interesting effects on the body. Though flying at around 35,000 feet, the cabin is pressurized to mimic the altitude of 6,000 to 8,000 feet. That’s comparable to sitting on top of mountain. Count in hours of inactivity, exposure to germs, and recirculated air, it’s no wonder we feel a bit sluggish after a long plane trip. For frequent business travelers, it can be easy to forget what our bodies goes through every time we board a plane. Below are some of the typical side effects of plane travel and the science behind it.

What happens to your body on a plane

Taste

Airplane food has always had the reputation of being bland and unappetizing. Turns out there is a scientific reason behind the judgement. It’s not always the food that is the problem, but our surroundings. Pressurized cabin, high altitude and circulated cool dry air “makes your taste buds go numb, almost as if you have cold”, says Grant Meckels, the executive chef for culinary development of Lufthansa’s LSG Sky Chefs. Our ability to perceive sweetness and saltiness can dip up to 30% while flying, changing the way food tastes.

Solutions? Don’t waste calories on a plane. Take small snacks with you to keep your energy levels up, but don’t go overboard. Is it worth it if you can’t even taste it?

Drowsiness

We’ve all been there. You open up your laptop after take-off, create an attack plan for your to-do list, when suddenly it hits you– you can’t keep your eyes open. No, you’re not subconsciously avoiding work. Your body is feeling the difference of air pressure while flying. At high elevations, the air pressure is much lower than at ground level. This decrease in air pressure causes your blood oxygen levels to also drop, making you feel tired and fatigued.

Unfortunately, there’s not much that can be done to avoid this sensation. Some airplanes are pressurized to resemble lower altitudes, like the Boeing 787. They also hold more oxygen, so overall you should feel better during and after travel.

Dehydration

Dehydration has many symptoms like lightheadedness, dry mouth, and headaches. We all know to drink water, but it can be easily forgotten while scrambling through the airport. But did you know dehydration comes from other sources? Cabin pressurization, the culprit again, creates a very dry environment with very little moisture in the air. The humidity level on a plane is on average 10 to 20 percent. This is much lower compared to a comfortable indoor temperature of 30 to 65 percent. This sudden change in moisture takes a toll on our body through dry skin, scratchy eyes, and headaches. Additionally, this arid climate can dry up the mucus in the nose and mouth, leaving us more susceptible to germs and bacteria.

Though not avoidable, there are a few tricks to keep you comfortable. Avoid alcohol while flying and drink plenty of water. Also, pack eye drops, nasal spray and lotion with you.

Swelling Ankles

Sitting for prolonged amount of time can wreck havoc on your circulation system. Add in the decrease in oxygen levels and no wonder ankles swell. If you are prone to this symptom, make sure you stand up and move around the cabin about once an hour. You can also try a few exercises that engage your leg muscles while sitting, like ankle rolls or knee lifts. Pumping your calves usually helps too. Though in some cases, prolonged sitting can cause blood clots called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Talk to your doctor if you have any questions.

Air travel is a marvel, but it comes with some negative repercussions to our bodies. Mainly cabin pressurization creates a cold and arid environment with less oxygen, leaving us dried out and sleepy. Next time you travel, try to come hydrated and prepared for your adventure at 35,000 feet.

Tags airplane, business travel

Business Travel Travel Tips

7 Tips for Staying Productive on Business Trips

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date May 2, 2016

Even the most seasoned business travelers can get off track while on the road. Below are
seven tips for utilizing the most of your time while traveling for business.

1- Create a checklist for tasks to be completed only while in transit

Make a checklist of all the little things you can complete while on the plane, train, or in the taxi before your day of travel. It can be small items like: check in with the office, reply to an email, or proofread a report. Having your list prepared before you leave will keep you on track and build momentum for staying productive.

2- Save your writing for the plane

Even when wifi is provided, it can be slow, unreliable, and a real pain. Instead of taking the risk, put on your headphones and get in the writing zone. Whether creating presentation slides or drafting a few email responses, writing on the plane is the easiest way to get through a few tasks that might require serious concentration.

3- Download TripIt

Keep your plane, hotel, rail or any other travel related itinerary organized by downloading the TripIt app. It organizes everything in one convenient place, making everything you will need easily accessible and always on-hand. If you use our software, your plane and hotel information can be easily pushed to your TripIt profile.

4- Drink plenty of water

Sounds basic, but this is often overlooked by business travelers. Did you know that by the time you feel thirsty, your body is already dehydrated? Symptoms of mild dehydration include fatigue, foggy memory, irritability and anxiety–all traits you want to avoid when networking or presenting to others. Factor in jet lag, and you could be a hot mess by the time you land. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it up after going through airport security. Or buy a bottle of water once you get to your gate. Stay hydrated during your trip and stay on top of your game.

4- Familiarize yourself with the destination

Research the area around the hotel or conference venue. Where is the nearest grocery store or coffee shop? Having this knowledge will help you familiarize yourself with the surroundings and make you feel more confident once you are there. Plus, it can save you some serious time when you only have a few minutes to remedy a caffeine fix.

5- Always keep your phone charger with you. Always.

As your side kick on business trips, make sure your phone is always charged and ready to provide quick assistance when you need it. Plug it in when you have down time during the day, and charge it before going to bed. Nothing ruins an afternoon like chasing down a new charger, or frantically relying on secondary communication networks to coordinate events.

6-Be prepared with things to do during sudden changes and down time

Business travel can sometimes include sudden schedule changes or transportation delays. Come prepared with things to do during these times so you wont be left twiddling your thumbs. Download any additional documents you may need, or keep a list handy of short tasks that can be done, with and without a wifi connection.

7- Relax and recharge

To be your most productive self, you also need to be fully charged. Be sure to take time for yourself. Go to bed early or leave time to call home and check in with loved ones. Check out the local area for awhile before replying to those non-urgent emails.

Christopherson Business Travel is a top business travel management company. We provide our clients reliable customer service and helpful travel technology. To learn more about our travel management solutions, contact us here.

Tags business travel, Business Travel Tips

Travel Management Travel Technology

Corporate Travel Programs Need Actionable Intelligence

Post author By Mike Cameron
Post date April 7, 2016

At the beginning of 2016, Christopherson Business Travel announced that we’ll begin transitioning our integrated business travel management software platform, AirPortal®,from providing “business intelligence” to “actionable intelligence.”

To this end, we built our 2016-2017 technology roadmap to support this improved strategy. We have more than 40 technology projects in the pipeline, half of which are to enhance existing business travel technologies, while the other half will provide new solutions to other business travel management problems. Many of these projects will be completed for our major AirPortal technology release scheduled for July of this year.

The use of Big Data has been evolving for many years from data capture, to data analytics, to data visualization, to business intelligence. The next logical step is to convert business intelligence to become actionable intelligence. Author and educator Keith B. Carter wrote the following in his book Actionable Intelligence:

“Leaders from all industries yearn for more information. They want to be able to assess risks and opportunities quickly and efficiently. They want answers in enough time to be able to make a difference. They want to seize opportunities. They need intelligence that is in time and accurate. They want… actionable intelligence.”

Hotel Attachment. Hotel Attachment tracks travel itineraries with missing hotel reservations and assists business travelers by providing clear options to match their needs and complete their itinerary prior to their business trip

As the CEO of Christopherson, I was recently interviewed by Skift, a media group that provides news and insights on the travel industry, and shared additionalthoughts about actionable intelligence:

“The problem with business intelligence is [that while] it’s very interesting and it’s useful … it’s backwards looking, so all of the new stuff that we’re building, we’re building with a more actionable forward-looking lens … We’re building a work-to-zero task manager for our travel managers that shows them in an actionable way all of the pending things that they need to do.”

Tags actionable intelligence, business travel, business travel technology, corporate travel managers

Travel News

Christopherson in the News: Seven Corporate Travel Trends for 2016

Post author By Krista Ercin-Maurer
Post date December 11, 2015

Travel Market Report recently interviewed Christopherson Business Travel’s CEO, Mike Cameron, about his outlook for next year. Click here to read the full article and his thoughts on Christopherson’s overall increases in travel, investments in technology, and the growing meeting sector.

Tags 2016 Travel Trends, business travel, Christopherson Business Travel, corporate travel, Corporate Travel Trends, Mike Cameron, Travel Market Report

Business Travel Travel Management

Business Travel is Never Easy, But We’re Here

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date December 10, 2015

Traveling for business is not easy. Discomforts include being away from friends and loved ones, sleeping in unfamiliar beds, being exposed to others’ germs, and driving in unfamiliar cities, all while trying to keep up with the constant flow of email, texts, IM, voicemail, and project deadlines. Yet business travelers are the lifeblood of the business world. They negotiate contracts, solve problems, and facilitate critical trading relationships that bolster the global economy. As a Travel Management Company, we work hard to make sure those business travelers are equipped with the tools and support needed to make their travels easier.

Beginning with the booking process, we offer a wide variety of choices–from do-it-yourself online booking options to VIP agent services. Traveling internationally? We provide up-to-date passport and visa requirements, and one button access to passport and visa services. En route, we provide easy access to itineraries, travel alerts for events or situations that may affect travel, and notifications on delays, cancellations, or gate changes. If travel plans are disrupted help is needed, our ‘click to call’ feature connects directly to our agents who will provide helpful assistance. Renting a car? We work with our clients to set up a contract with one of our preferred car providers. This allows companies access to elite membership benefits, including free upgrades and expedited check-in.

Our new partnership with Checkmate, allows travelers to make pre-arrival requests that are easily communicated via text or email with their hotel prior to check-in and throughout their stay. Need down pillows, room service delivered at a specific time, or another special request? No problem. Checkmate provides a direct connection from your phone.

No, business travel is never easy, but Christopherson Business Travel works hard to make it as pleasant as possible. So, to all our clients and their road warriors who help drive our global economy, we thank you for your business and wish you safe travels!

Tags business travel, Travel Management Company

Business and Leadership Business Travel Travel Management

“The Handshake” and Communication Protocols for Better Business

Post author By Mike Cameron
Post date December 7, 2015

All communication between computers requires that the devices agree on the format of the data. The parameters of a communications channel must be established before the digital “handshake” will allow the communication to begin.

All communication between humans also requires that both parties agree on the parameters of the communication before they meet–shall we use digital, telephone, or a physical handshake for this meeting?

In 1889 Jules Verne imagined that the “phonotelephote” would replace the need for physical handshakes. This is no longer science fiction. All of us are now inundated with email, text messages, and WebEx meetings. And yes, we still use the old-fashioned telephone too. But according to a recent article in The Economist, “Companies are spending more on sending their staff out to win deals.”

At Christopherson Business Travel, we’re seeing the same trend, with our airline bookings up 13% year-over-year. While some of this growth is from new clients, much of it is coming from existing clients who are sending their people out to meet face-to-face, shake hands, build relationships, and win deals.

Whenever we experience a poor-quality internal conference call, we remind ourselves it’s a good thing that people need to see each other face-to-face in order to obtain greater effectiveness. After all, that’s the business we’re in. For more than 60 years, we’ve been providing companies of all sizes across the globe with cost-effective, personalized, and hassle-free business travel management and resources. Plus, our exclusive AirPortal® travel technology applications are the only tools you’ll ever need to manage your business trips.

If you’re looking for better business travel management so that you and your team can extend more than a virtual handshake to your clients, our executives would be happy and share more information about our services and technology.

Tags AirPortal, better business practices, business travel, business travel management, Christopherson Business Travel, why spend money on business travel

Business Travel Travel Technology Travel Tips

Five Products For Easier Business Travel

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date December 1, 2015

Savvy travelers, especially those who travel for business, seem to be very focused on making every aspect of their trip as quick, convenient, and painless as possible. To learn some of their tricks, here are five products that will help you stay organized and efficient on your next trip.

1) The Cordito by This is Ground is a small leather cord roll that is made in the USA. Fitting two plugs and three small cords, it is the perfect way to store all those phone cords and adapters.

2) A smartphone wallet case will allow you to keep your phone and wallet together, maximizing space in your carry-on bag. These can be found by a variety of different makers at a range of prices.

3) A jewelry roll will keep all of your accessories organized and minimize the time you spend untangling them while on the road.

4) A Sky Roll Garment Bag rolls clothing into a cylinder so your dress clothes never have crease marks. This minimizes the amount of ironing you will need to do upon arriving at your hotel.

5) A portable charger is always useful, but a charging station like the one from AViiQ can take your efficiency to the next level.

What products would you recommend to enhance the business travel experience?

Tags AviiQ, business travel, Business Travel Tips, Cordito, Jewelry Roll, Products for Business Travel, roadwarriors, Sky Roll Garment Bag, Smartphone wallet case

Business Travel Travel Tips

Getting a Good Night’s Sleep While Business Traveling

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date September 26, 2014

The reality of business travel seems to always involve getting to bed too late (after a huge dinner) and then trying to respond to a day’s worth of missed emails in a hotel room. This often results in a restless night’s sleep (sometimes in a different time zone) and several cups of coffee in the morning to help prepare for the day ahead.

Such a “routine” can leave you feeling drained by mid-afternoon and down-right exhausted by the time you return to the comforts of your own home. But instead of repeating the vicious cycle of restlessness when traveling and then binge sleeping at home, why not try to get a better night’s sleep on the road?

In a recent Conde Naste Traveler article, Rebecca Robbins, a sleep researcher and the author of Sleep for Success, provides some helpful tips on how to get more rest on the road.

Click here and you just may be on your way to a better business travel sleep.

Tags better sleep on business travels, business travel, how to sleep on business trips, sleeping in hotels, sleeping tips for business travelers, sleeping while traveling

Business Travel Travel Tips

5 Tips for Healthy Travels

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date November 6, 2013

‘Tis the season of holiday travel and with a little bit of planning, there’s plenty you can do to stay healthy while you’re on the road. Here are five tips:

When traveling with prescription medication, keep them in their original bottles (especially if you are going to another country) so officials don’t give you a hard time about unmarked medication. Also, be sure to pack those prescriptions in your carry-on.
Getting a flu shot is a good idea since you’re in close contact with so many people on airplanes and in airports.
Visit CDC.gov/travel to see what vaccinations and medicines are required or recommended for international travel. You may also want to look into the health care options available in any country you’ll be visiting. The International Society of Travel Medicine’s website can give you a sense of the accredited clinics in a region.
Bring along hand sanitizers, digestion aids, antihistamines, and a seasickness patch for cruises.
Don’t forget your vitamin C. In addition to oranges–mangos, red and green peppers, strawberries, leafy greens like kale and spinach, certain enriched cereals, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, pineapple, tomatoes and kiwi, are great sources of this powerful antioxidant and will help boost your immune system.

And as always–stay hydrated! We hope you have healthy, happy travels.

Tags business travel, Business Travel Tips, health and wellness, Staying healthy while traveling, Vacation Travel

Business Travel Travel Technology

TSA Launches New Application Program for TSA PreCheck

Post author By Christopherson Business Travel
Post date July 25, 2013

Christopherson Business Travel received the following notification from Delta this week, and wanted to share this valuable news with our travelers:

(July 24, 2013) – On July 22, 2013, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that it will add an additional opportunity for U.S. citizens to be eligible to receive expedited screening through TSA PreCheck lanes at select airports. To view the complete TSA press release, please click here.

Delta customers interested in enrolling will be required to submit an online application, complete an in-person interview at an enrollment site and pay an $85 five-year membership fee when the program launches later this fall. A U.S. passport is not required to enroll. Approved customers will be given a Known Traveler Number to store in their passenger profile when purchasing a ticket. Click here for more enrollment details.

Customers are encouraged to contact the TSA for more information on this new program via email at TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov or 1-866-289-9673.
Initially, enrollment sites will be located at Washington Dulles International Airport and Indianapolis International Airport. The TSA expects to expand at other locations in the future.
Customers who have received TSA PreCheck through Delta SkyMiles or through a Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveler Program such as Global Entry, will not need to reapply; this is only for new entrants to the program.

While this additional opportunity provides a benefit to our customers who do not possess a valid U.S. passport, Delta encourages those who travel to international destinations to apply for the Customs and Border Protection Global Entry program to receive TSA PreCheck eligibility.

With Global Entry, customers receive quicker access through Customs and Boarder Protection checkpoints at key international gateways and may receive expedited screening through the TSA PreCheck program as well. Click here to learn more: www.globalentry.gov

As always, the TSA incorporates random unpredictable security measures and no one is guaranteed expedited screening.

Resources
Additional information about TSA PreCheck is available by visiting the following links.

TSA Press Release

TSA PreCheck Application Process

TSA PreCheck FAQs

TSA PreCheck for Active Duty Military

TSA PreCheck Participating Airports

Tags business travel, Delta Airlines, TSA PreCheck, TSA PreCheck Application

Business Travel Travel Tips Vacation Travel

Car Rental Hidden Costs – Are they DRIVING you Crazy?

Post author By Kathleen Roberts
Post date March 30, 2012

We’ve talked about this before, but I find that it’s always helpful to review the hidden costs of renting a car.
To begin, let’s say you’ve found a great rental deal for $20/day. Unfortunately that “great” rate doesn’t guarantee you a low-cost rental. Instead, upon returning your car, you find the price has skyrocketed and the bill now includes sales taxes, airport surcharges, insurance, and licensing fees. By the time all the extra charges are added on, the guaranteed result is a severe case of sticker shock … and a final cost double the initial alluring base rate.
So how can you avoid the shock of pricing overload? Here is a summary of car rental surcharges and a few tips for how to cut costs on your next rental.

Taxes and Airport Surcharges

Sales tax and airport charges vary considerably from state to state, and you won’t be able to avoid state and local sales taxes. Many local governments also charge fees to fund their own development projects, such as convention centers or sports stadiums, and some car rental companies also include a daily surcharge for economy recovery fees.
But avoiding airport charges is simple and something to always consider. You can eliminate airport concession recovery fees and customer facility charges by picking up and dropping off your car at an off-airport location. Weighing the possible inconveniences and the price of additional transportation to and from the airport against the concession fees charged by the airport location is, however, a must as doing so could save you more than 15% of your total price.

Insurance

This is usually referred to by rental companies as “collision damage” or “Loss Damage Waiver (LDW).” For an extra $25 – $30 a day, you can avoid liability for any damage to the vehicle, provided you’re not found guilty of gross negligence. Insurance is optional, although in a few states it is compulsory and built into the basic car rental cost.
So, before you purchase the extra insurance, check to see if your regular car insurance covers you in a rental car. Some policies do. Most credit cards also provide insurance if you pay for your rental with that card. Larger companies also include car rental addendums in their company insurance which also covers office equipment and the like. Keep in mind that limitations may apply to all types of coverage. If you’re not comfortable with the risk, consult with your insurance administrator or travel manager.

Gasoline Charges

Returning a car with an empty tank will create an extra charges to your bottom line. In most cases you’ll want to fill up before you return your vehicle. However, car rental companies now offer the option of purchasing a full tank of gas when you first take the car, enabling you to return the car with as much or as little fuel as you wish.
Keep in mind that there is no refund for unused fuel, so you’d be paying a little extra for the convenience of skipping the trip to the gas station. Also, you may be able to find a better per-gallon price by shopping around on your own.

Drop-Off Charges

An extra fee is usually charged if a car is returned to a different location than where it was picked up. This fee varies by location. In some instances there is no charge, however you could pay more than $1,000 for picking a car up at LAX and dropping it of at JFK plus around $0.35 per mile.
If your corporation has a car rental contract make sure it notes a “one way” rate. The rates will be higher than your normal corporate rate but will save money in the long run.

The 24-Hour Clock

If you rent your car on Wednesday and return it on Thursday, most companies charge you one day only if you return it within 24 hours. Some companies will give you a 29-minute grace period before hourly charges kick in and after 90 – 120 minutes you may be charged for the full extra day. Some rental car companies are also now charging a late return fee of $10 per day.
Make sure you check the terms and conditions in your rental documents.

One Day Surcharges

Picking a car up only for one day will cost you more if those days are Monday through Thursday. Because of the yield management process, it is more expensive for the car rental company if you pick your car up in the morning on Monday through Thursday and return it the same day. It eliminates the possibilities of another traveler needing that car for two or more days at a time. The one day surcharges are $5 to $7 over the normal daily rate and are “hidden” in the rate so you will not recognize you are being charged extra. Corporations can sometimes get this fee reduced or waived when negotiating a car rental contract.

Age Penalties

Renters under the age of 25 may have to pay additional fees of about $25 – $30 per day. Those companies who rent to drivers under 21 often charge much steeper surcharges. Those over 70 may also have to pay extra (if they’re able to rent at all). Age restrictions vary by country and franchise, so be sure to check ahead.

Frequent Flier Fees

Car rental companies often charge a small fee when you request frequent flier miles for your rental. The fee varies by airline and can range anywhere from a few cents to $2 a day. Another choice would be to opt for the free day program instead of earning miles. There is not a charge for earning free rental days and are usually earned for every 15 days rented.

Tags business travel, car rental age penalties, car rental drop off charges, car rental gasoline charges, car rental hidden fees, car rental insurance, car rental surcharges, car rental tips, car rentals, Christopherson Business Travel, Christopherson Travel, corporate travel, frequent flier fees, taxes and airport surcharges, Travel Management, travel tips

Travel Management

Duty of Care and Travel Risk Management

Post author By Kathleen Roberts
Post date June 10, 2011

Companies with multi-national operations and those with employees who travel across borders are increasingly concerned about managing risk to their travelers, expatriates and assignees. When employers fail to comply with their duty of care obligations, the following situations can occur:

While working overseas, an employee gets sick and does not have access to adequate medical treatment
During a natural disaster, a company realizes that it does not have sustainable business continuity plans, and/or employees cannot be evacuated easily and face unnecessary hardship
An employee travels to a country where malaria is endemic. She is not given prophylaxis or education on malaria by her employer. She contracts the disease and gets very sick.

These incidences are all avoidable. Unfortunately, the employers were not prepared and faced needless litigation, damaged reputation and interruptions to their operations.
To learn more about Duty of Care and Travel Risk Management please click on this white paper link by International SOS.

Tags business travel, Christopherson Business Travel, corporate travel