The Kharisma Magazine The Kharisma Magazine (Full) Premiere Issue | Page 278

T 278 Travel Tips for Business Travel – Flying WRITTEN BY JOHN SOLAND { ravelling by air is the fastest way to get to your next scheduled meeting or conference, but it isn’t the easiest method of travel. Between the increased and added fees mandated by airlines (yes, you’ll be paying for that tiny blanket) and security measures that seem to be more of a headache than a help, air travel can make even the hardiest of business men and women want to pull their hair out. One of the best ways to learn the tips and tricks of business travel is to talk to someone who’s learned from his or her mistakes over the years and has discovered the best ways to deal with the delays, rude or inconsiderate passengers, and the lack of nutrition- ally healthy foods. If you don’t know someone like this, then read on for a few quick tips on how to best handle your next business trip. 1. Before You Go. Before you leave for the airport, be sure to eat a protein- packed but lightweight meal. The food choices in airports have improved in recent years, but eating fat- and calorie-laden foods may still be too tempting if you’re short on time and hungry. Once you’ve passed through security, it can be helpful to purchase a bottle of water and a piece of fruit, such as a banana or an apple, to have as a snack. This will also help you E S C A P E S I S S U E 2 0 1 8 } K H A R I S M A M A G A Z I N E avoid spending extravagantly on snacks or meals while in the air that won’t do much to satisfy your hunger. 2. Check Out Rewards Programs. In addition to packing lightly and making healthy food choices, you may want to look into joining rewards program through your favourite airline or credit card company. While there may be a fee of some sort, you may be able to earn free miles and enjoy perks such as priority boarding and discounts to use on meals and movies. ... you may be able 3. At the Airport. to earn free miles Be sure you arrive at the airport early to ensure that you get through security, and enjoy perks the waiting line for which can seem to stretch on for miles during peak travel times throughout the day. When you such as priority finally make it up to the security check point, be prepared to take off your shoes, boarding .... belt, jewelry, and jacket or coat for X-ray Packing lightly for a business trip, whether you’ll be gone for two days or a week, is a must. Choose clothing that can be used multiple times. That might mean packing at least one jacket and pair of pants or a skirt that match in colour, as well as a few button down shirts, polo shirts, or blouses. It’s also best to pack just one or two pairs of shoes; many pairs of shoes can take up a lot of room in a carry-on or suitcase. Speaking of carry- on luggage, if you’re travelling for business, it’s in your best interest to fly with carry-on bags only that actually fit under the seat or in the overhead bin. Checking luggage can result in extra fees and there’s always the chance that your luggage could be lost or delayed. This can spell disaster, particularly if you need to prepare and dress for a presentation or meeting directly after you arrive at your destination. G R E A T P R E M I E R scanning. It might also be helpful to place your personal belongings in a specific order to be scanned so that you avoid scrambling for items as they pass through the x-ray machine. For example, place your shoes first so they are first to exit the scanner. Before you board the plane, be sure to have exactly what you need for the flight (books, magazines, laptop, etc.) easily accessible in your carry-on bag. This will allow you to quickly take these items out of your carry-on when you get to your seat and just as quickly put your bag under your seat or overhead, without holding up passengers behind you. 4. At Your Destination. Whether you end up in China or Cleveland, it’s important to make sure you develop a routine for eating and sleeping. Block off an adequate amount of time to allow yourself to adjust to another time zone, use earplugs or noise-blocking headphones to help you rest in a loud hotel, and eat well-balanced and nutritious meals and snacks. If you’re travelling for business, you want to look and feel your best. Take time to discover other ways to help you travel smarter. About the Author: John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those Image: iStock.com/andresr pertaining to general wellness. 279