Lowering the cost of business travel

Following a few simple rules can help SME owners shave thousands of dollars from travel expenses according to a recent Daily Telegraph story.

After speaking to travel management experts on smart ways for SMEs to traverse the nation and the globe, the following tips were identified:

• Plan ahead - it's suggested SMEs develop a cost savings plan that looks at how travel can be managed strategically
• Early bird - book flights well in advance to avoid price hikes
• Focus on flexibility - if there's the possibility that your travel arrangements may change consider a flexible fare
• Look for corporate discounts - if booking a hire care enquire about offers that may include free days
• Loyalty matters - investigate airline lounge membership discounts or loyalty schemes

More insider tips and tricks can be found here.

Comments

[Peter Sampson]

I read this article also and it got me thinking.
I think the main point is the early booking of flights. With the various low frills low cost carriers, it is important to identify early the dates and times to travel. I use Ryanair personally and I find once I book in time its okay. If its a short notice thing, it is sometimes better to look for alternatives as stated.

I also think SME's should look into appointing someone to arrange all more efficiently this within the budget and it would prove cost effective. My company at soes not 'officially' have any travel arrangments personelle which might be somethin to consider.

Thoughts?

Regards,
Peter