When you’re traveling a lot for business saving just a few minutes on each trip can add up over time. If you don’t have a plan for saving time when you travel, then you’re wasting precious time. Check out these helpful pointers to get to your destination more quickly and easily.
Avoid checking a bag at all costs
If there’s no getting around checking a bag, then obviously you’ll have to do it. But if it’s at all possible for you not to – skip it. Not only do you have to deal with the hassle and wasted time of waiting for it to show up on the carousel, but what if it gets lost? You’ll spend more time, and possibly money, getting all you need for business trip. Consider compression sacs that let you pack a lot more into a smaller bag.
Follow the 3-1-1 rule
The TSA has very specific requirements for bringing liquids in your carryon. Familiarize yourself with their 3-1-1 rule, which stats that all toiletries must have less than 3.4 ounces of liquid and they must all be in a 1 quart, clear, zip-top bag. Can you get through security if you don’t follow these rules to the letter? It’s likely that you will, but it’ll require the TSA agent to hand check your bag and put you through additional screening – which is a serious time waster.
Leave the laces at home
If possible, wear shoes that don’t have laces. This allows you to quickly and easily remove them and get them back on in a hurry. Of course this isn’t always an option for business travelers trying to keep all their belongings in a carry on, as they’ll then need to pack their dress shoes, but remember that there are many slip-on dress shoe options that may work for you.
Apply for expedited traveler status
If you travel frequently there is no reason you shouldn’t apply for expedited traveler status through any number of programs, including TSA Pre✓ for domestic travel or Nexus, Sentri or Global Entry for international travel. These fast lanes can save you as much as an hour every time you’re at the airport.
Don’t forget to download essential apps
You may not have access to WiFi on the plane – even if your flight states that WiFi is available. As a result, make sure you have the apps and data stored that you need. For example, most airlines will allow you to visit their own website and use their apps even if you don’t purchase WiFi. However, you may not be able to download it without said WiFi. The easy, quick – and affordable – way around this is to download it ahead of time.
